About two months ago, the chain started getting clunky and I have adjusted it several times and it's still clunky. Part of the problem is that it seems to have taut and slack places as you spin the back wheel. It's really annoying when I am first starting from a stop...clunk clunk clunk until I am going fast enough to not hear it. (Not that I believe it goes away, just that it's happening so fast, I can't notice it. Also, earplugs help.)
So I pulled my records, and it seems the chain (DID ZVM2) has over 37,700 miles (and 3.5 years) on it. I guess it's actually reached it's lifespan and should be replaced. I'll probably go ahead and replace the sprockets, although they look pretty good, all things considered.
On a few web searches, I found relatively few specs for how long a chain should last, and 15K-20K was the only wearlife I could find.
First Question: Anyone have any personal experiences with how long a chain lasts (for those who ride a little rough but don't do stunts/wheelies)?
Second Question: Anyone have any experience/recommendatrions with non-OEM sprockets? I remember when I last swapped it out that forum regulars recommend the OEM engine sprocket because it had a rubberized finish that made it quieter. I found a British vendor that had DID chain and sprocket sets, but nothing on this side of the pond.
Unless somebody suggests any reason why to do otherwise, I will plan on ordering replacement parts soon, and then wait until I am out of town or otherwise not riding el Bandido to get it installed.
(PS: I just spent a fun week in St. Louis on business...but rode el Bandido instead of driving/flying. Nearly 900 miles round trip, and had a blast. If anyone's curious about what kind of fun there is there, let me know, and I'll post it.)