Non-O-Ring 530 Chain

[Pillage]

I didn't order the chain & sprockets I needed in time before a 600 mile trip.   I went to my local dealership and the parts guy looked at my sprocket said it didn't look bad but the chain was way out specs, so he suggested a $28 non o-ring RK 530 chain.  I bought and installed it and it's been running great ever since then.  The previous chain was an X ring cost 4 times as much, and didn't last very long, even though I'm pretty good at maintianing it.  (My stock chain on the FZ1 is just about done at 28K miles).
So now I'm wondering if I would just be better off using the much less expensive non o-ring chains from now on?

[pmackie]

Just an opinion, but with the cost of sprockets entering the equation, you may find that the cost changes...

An o-ring or x-ring SHOULD last 2-3 times longer, resulting in sprockets that last through the chain life.

If you use a non o-ring chain, you may be able to use the sprockets a 2nd time, but normally the 2nd chain will wear faster as well.

My factory chain/sprockets only went 20,000 kms and were completely toast. I've got another 28,000 kms on a Regina O-ring set, and wear is still minimal. Should go 40,000 kms for sure.

[Bob Holland]

Before there were o-ring chains, all were non o-ring. I believe that a non o-ring chain will last just as long as the o-ring chain if it is cleaned and oiled properly.
I wouldn't suggest using the non o-ring chain because more frequent oiling means more oil to clean from your rim and the back of your bike.
I do use the non o-ring drag race chain on my bike, it takes less energy to turn the non o-ring chain around the sprockets, and the drag chain has a higher tensile strength