Title: Replacing Chain and Sprockets Post by: tommys67 on July 04, 2008, 09:25:40 AM So I screwed up the maintenance of my chain. I noticed on a ride the other day that the chain is actually starting to rust... [bang] [bang] [bang] [bang]
So in addition to getting new tires installed next week, I thought I would try and get ahead of the curve this time and just replace the chain and sprockets and consider it a lesson learned. (I'm paying the price for not cleaning the bike thoroughly enough from a ride I took in January through road slop and road salt. [bang] [bang]) So I did my research and I learn my 695 takes a 520 width chain, 110 links (106 according to CA-Cycleworks ???), a 15T front socket and a 46T rear socket. BTW - I'm used to the 15T and really don't want to switch to a 14T. I found this place - www.sprocketcenter.com - that sells complete kits, chain cut to length based on application. Does anyone have experience with this retailer? Does this sound like a good deal AND a good solution? (from my research it seems to be - cost is $199.95): Quote Product Information This 520 conversion kit with RK 520 GXW series gold chain and the Supersprox STEALTH Tri-Metal Rear Sprocket make a unique and great looking upgrade for your drive-train. The STEALTH sprocket offers the long life of a steel sprocket, without the weight and the RK GXW series chain is the strongest 520 Chain we offer. Each kit includes: * one Drilled Lightweight Steel Front Sprocket * one STEALTH Tri-Metal Rear Sprocket (GOLD) * RK 520GXW Series Gold Race Chain (cut to length) * one Rivet Style Master Link Use the dropdowns to select a Stock set-up or change it up a bit and choose your own gearing. (Chain is cut to proper length based on your gearing and bike model) If you have any questions about gearing, please call us!!! I was kinda searching for the EK chains which have a screw-in master link that doesn't require a special chain rivet tool. I suppose I'm going to have to ask my NYC area friends if they have that tool handy for the RK chain - provided the experts here think this package deal is a good one. 8) Title: Re: Replacing Chain and Sprockets Post by: Aminul on July 04, 2008, 10:25:55 AM I paid for my abuses with a new chain, too. I recently purchased a DID chain with a clip type masterlink. It was around $80cdn. Both sprockets (14/46) came to around $70usd. The masterlink took some force to put together, but no special chain tools required. I used a dremel to cut the old chain off, and cut the new chain to the correct length. The longest part was cleaning the crud around the front sprocket.
Title: Re: Replacing Chain and Sprockets Post by: Howie on July 04, 2008, 12:55:36 PM Don't kick yourself too hard, the OEM chains don't have a long life. Also, if the rust is surface rust the chain might be fine. If you want I can give it a look. I also have a decent chain rivit tool, rear stand, etc. Sprocket Center is good, but I would buy from Chris Kelley, http://www.ca-cycleworks.com. Why, you ask? Chris has been a long time supporter and he is a good guy.
Title: Re: Replacing Chain and Sprockets Post by: tommys67 on July 05, 2008, 05:21:31 AM Don't kick yourself too hard, the OEM chains don't have a long life. Also, if the rust is surface rust the chain might be fine. If you want I can give it a look. I also have a decent chain rivit tool, rear stand, etc. Sprocket Center is good, but I would buy from Chris Kelley, http://www.ca-cycleworks.com. Why, you ask? Chris has been a long time supporter and he is a good guy. Thanks for that, H, I placed the order with CA-Cycleworks last night just to be safe. If you're around this week (Hiram's or Ear) I'll swing by. I also need to be back up on Gun Hill Road (close to White Plains Ave) to pick up a car stereo getting repaired at a dicey little shop later this week. Title: Re: Replacing Chain and Sprockets Post by: Howie on July 05, 2008, 06:51:25 AM Thanks for that, H, I placed the order with CA-Cycleworks last night just to be safe. If you're around this week (Hiram's or Ear) I'll swing by. I also need to be back up on Gun Hill Road (close to White Plains Ave) to pick up a car stereo getting repaired at a dicey little shop later this week. Are you going to pick up your stereo by bike? Im pretty close to there. Title: Re: Replacing Chain and Sprockets Post by: tommys67 on July 05, 2008, 07:09:45 AM Are you going to pick up your stereo by bike? Im pretty close to there. That's my plan. I really don't want to make that trip again via subway in a work suit the way I did last week. NOT fun. I will be in touch with the shop in a few days and I'll let you know when I may be up that way. I have a new set of tires all set in Brooklyn and it looks like I may have to wait a week to get those installed. |