I used DID motocross 520 chains on my (52 bhp at the wheel) Manx. They wear out fast: I used two in fifteen seasons...
I agree 100% with John. My Shadow has a JWIS standard 3/8 (530) chain, similar to the original Renold. I use a Scottoiler. I've adjusted it ONCE in 20,000 miles. I've now bought a VOC "kit" but am in no hurry to fit it. I think Scottoilers are wonderful.
I was lucky enough to have a standard Vin chain (on the Vin), a non-O-ring 520 (on the Manx), and an O-ring 520 (on a Ducati M900. It too had a Scottoiler, was also adjusted once in 20,000 miles...) and measured them. The maximum width of the 520 O-ring is almost the same as the original Renold 530 (or 5/8" x 3/8" if you prefer) so there's no problem in fitting it.
Incidentally, on all three I use / used spring links.
Scottoiler running costs can be dramatically reduced by trolling round to your local chain-saw shop and buying chain-saw oil. This is designed to lubricate exposed chains and resist fling. Sound familiar?
Hello,
For once I have to disagree with Albervin, After 30 years of removing, cleaning and boiling rear chains I decided that grease simply causes grit to stick to the chain.
The O ring chain only needs a wipe now and again as the Scott oil appears to flush the chain continuously. As for loss of power, if it was significant the O rings
would melt as the energy has to go somewhere. Also a clean chain is more efficient.
It looks like you need to rivet an O ring chain to get the most benefit, mine is, and causes a little more difficulty removing the back wheel but not too much on
a Vincent.
Perhaps road conditions are different in beautiful Illawarra.
Regards John.