Miguel Norwood

Miguel R. Norwood 2982 Hilltop Drive Amarillo, TX 79111 Birthday April 21, 1980 Age 43 years old Tropical zodiac Taurus

 

520 Motorcycle Chain Dimensions

Very common chain size on motorcycles its 520 non-O-Ring Chain Motorcycle, usually on medium weight motorcycles less than 600 cc for motorcycle racing, road or motocross motorcycles.

The 520 motorcycle chain size refers to the pitch and width measurements of the chain:

  • The first number 520 indicates the chain pitch – the distance between pin centers on the chain. This is 5.20mm for a 520 chain.
  • The second and third numbers denote the inner width between the side plates where the rollers sit. A common width is 20 (2.0mm).

So a 520 chain has a pitch of 5.20mm and a roller width around 2mm.

The 520 pitch provides adequate strength for moderate power outputs, keeping the chain compact and lightweight. It strikes a good balance of performance, weight and cost.

Best
Overall
Best for
Road
Best
Value
P
R
E
V
I
E
W
M
O
D
E
L
Pro Taper 520 MX Chain DID 520DZ-120 Gold RK Racing Chain M520HD-120
S
U
M
M
A
R
Y
The Pro Taper 520 MX chain features for immediate optimal performance. The DID 520DZ-120 designed to deliver strength, speed and durability for racing applications. The RK M520HD-120 is a heavy-duty motorcycle chain. Designed for durability.
P
R
O
S

•Lightweight alloy steel
•Pre-stretched
•Reusable master link
•Purpose-built

•Durable alloy steel
•Reusable master link
•Race-ready

•Durable steel
•Reusable connection
•Smooth feel

C
O
N
S

•High maintenance
•No dust protection

•Frequent lubrication
•No dust protection

•No seals
•Wear faster
•Dirt sensitive

Summary List

Best Overall: Pro Taper 520 MX Chain (120 Links) (Gold) Non-O-Ring

Best Value: RK Racing Chain M520HD-120 (520 Series) 120-Links Standard Non O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

Honorable Mention: RK Racing Chain M520HD-120 (520 Series) 120-Links Standard Non O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

Best for Road: DID (520DZ-120) Gold 120 Link High Performance DZ2 Series Non-O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

Best non O ring 520 Chain: Pro Taper 520 MX Chain (120 Links) (Gold) Non-O-Ring

520 non-O-Ring Chain Motorcycle: Summary

Many street motorcycles utilize 520 non-O-Ring Chain Motorcycle drive for their durability, lower friction, and lighter weight. Non O-ring chains are often preferred for middleweight street bikes because they provide crisp power transfer and good reliability at an affordable cost. This article explores the top non O-ring 520 chains ideal for street use on bikes up to 600cc.

We discuss the benefits of non-sealed chains for street riding, including their tighter power delivery and reduced rotating mass. typically lighter than O-ring designs. While they require more frequent lubrication, this also allows you to thoroughly inspect and clean your chain. We provide tips for proper maintenance to maximize chain life.

The focus is on durable, high-quality 520 chains from trusted brands like DID, RK, and JT. You’ll learn how chain construction, materials, and master links impact performance and ease of installation. We help you determine the ideal chain width, length, and features based on your motorcycle model and riding style. Considerations for both aggressive performance street riding as well as basic commuting needs are covered.

Pro Taper 520 MX Chain (120 Links) (Gold) Non-O-Ring

Pro Taper Gold Series PT 520 MX Chain

Specs
Make: Pro Taper
Model: 520 MX
Type: Non-O-Ring

SUMMARY
The Pro Taper 520 MX chain is a high performance 120 link non-O-ring motorcycle chain designed for motocross racing. It features lightweight gold alloy steel construction and comes pre-stretched for immediate optimal performance.

Pros:
  • Lightweight alloy steel: Provides durability without added weight.

  • Pre-stretched: Ready for immediate power transfer out of the box.

  • Reusable master link: Allows for no-tool installation and removal.

  • Purpose-built: Optimized for the demands of motocross racing.

Cons:
  • High maintenance: Requires very frequent cleaning/lubrication without O-ring seals.

  • No dust protection: Open design is prone to dirt and dust ingress.

 

REVIEW: “I put this chain on my YZ125 MX bike. Night and day difference over the stock chain in acceleration and top speed. The gold chain looks awesome too. I lube it religiously after every ride and it’s still going strong after 10 hours of track abuse.” – Jeremy A.

RK Racing Chain M520HD-120 (520 Series) 120-Links Standard Non O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

RK Racing Chain M520H-120-Links Standard Non O-Ring Chain

Specs
Make: RK Racing
Model: M520HD-120
Type: Non O-Ring

SUMMARY
The RK M520HD-120 is a heavy-duty 120 link 520 pitch standard motorcycle chain. It has nickel-plated steel construction without O-rings, designed for durability. Best suited for low-to-mid power street or off-road bikes.

Pros:
  • Durable steel: Made from heat-treated, nickel-plated steel for strength.

  • HD design: Thick inner and outer plates handle rigorous use.

  • Reusable connection: Comes with a reusable connecting link for installation.

  • Smooth feel: Pins are factory riveted for smooth operation.

Cons:
  • No seals: Lacks O-rings so needs frequent lubrication.

  • Wear faster: Has shorter life than sealed chains when not maintained.

  • Dirt sensitive: Lacks protection from grit, dust and debris.

 

REVIEW: “I put this chain on my KLX 250 supermoto. No need to fuss with O-rings for my simple setup. Lubing is quick after rides and I just adjust tension now and then. Works great for my needs and budget.” – Mike S.

DID (520DZ-120) Gold 120 Link High Performance DZ2 Series Non-O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

DID 520 DZ2 Chain (120 Links) (Gold)

Specs
Make: D.I.D
Model: 520DZ-120 Gold
Type: Non-O-Ring

SUMMARY
The DID 520DZ-120 is a high performance 120 link non-O-ring 520 chain made with lightweight heat-treated steel alloy components. Designed to deliver strength, speed and durability for racing applications.

Pros:
  • Durable alloy steel: Made from lightweight, strong steel alloy that resists fatigue.

  • Optimized design: Engineered for quick acceleration and high chainspeed.

  • Reusable master link: Features a removable master link for easy installation.

  • Race-ready: Trusted by professional racers worldwide.

Cons:
  • Frequent lubrication: Requires frequent cleaning and lubrication without O-rings.

  • No dust protection: Open design allows dirt ingress without seals.

 

REVIEW: “I switched to the DID Gold chain on my Aprilia RS125 race bike. Definitely dropped some rotational weight compared to my stock chain. Stays tight and fast even during 45 minute sprint races. The gold colored chain looks awesome too!” – Marco D.

FAQ: Non O-ring VS O-ring motorcycle Chain

0 0 votes
Article Rating
Subscribe
Notify of
guest
0 Comments
Oldest
Newest Most Voted
Inline Feedbacks
View all comments