Chain Life and Potential Replacements

[Rickrides]

I have about 10,000 miles on my 2000 Monster 900.  Stock original chain.

How long do these typically last?  I clean it frequently and it looks fine at this point but broken chains suck big time. 

Seems like a small chain for a 900 cc bike with a lot of torque.  Is there an upgrade option?  I always replace both sprockets when I replace the chain anyway so no biggie if I have to replace sprockets.

Thanks!

[Speeddog]

Usually last around 12k, but depends greatly on care.

I go 525 on my own rides, marginal cost and weight increase, but 25% more wear area than 520.

Go with a steel rear sprocket.

[Howie]

My last chain went 22K and was replaced when dark brown rust started to appear at the O rings, some of the miles were salty NYC winter miles.  The first chain didn't make it past 10K.  Keep an eye on it.  Frozen links, dark brown rust (brinelling at the pins) and frequent adjustment are signs you need a chain and sprockets as are shark fin shaped teeth  on the sprockets and excessive "stretch" indicate you need a chain and sprockets.  If you can pull the chain away from the back of the rear sprocket enough to expose half a tooth the chain is excessively worn.  If you are anal count 16 side plates.  With the chain taught, from center to center you should measure less than 256.5mm.