[robertob]

I'd like to use an o-ring chain on my CB450 but they're too wide for the cases.

So, I was thinking I would just change the sprockets to use 520 chain.

Does anyone know about Honda sprocket interchange? Is there a stock front and/or rear sprocket that I can use to swap?

 

[Geeto67]

most of the honda sprockets from the same era will be 530 or even 630 size. However, sprocket specalists can make you a set of any size sprockets you want - you just have to pay them.

http://www.sprocketspecialists.com/

I am kind of surprised by this, I have never heard of it, maybe some other cb450 people will chime in.

 

[xander450]

Why the commitment to an o-ring chain? My take on the subject is that non o-ring is just as good provided you lubricate it. I sense there's a point to it on modern bikes with long maintenance intervals, but that your bike ain't, so you're going to tinker anyway. May as well lube your chain.

While you're down there, plug the drip oiler if it isn't plugged already.

A

 

[FR]

Yup, I agree. Also, the extra drag of the o-ring chain will rob you of some percentage of what little (relative) power that engine makes.
It may sound trivial, but I've done direct comparisons on a bike with standard, then o-ring chains, and although I can't give you a quantative measurement, I can say that with the chains adjusted properly in each case, the rear wheel will spin much easier with the standard chain than the o-ring chain.
And both will rust equally without maintenance. The only advantage of the o-ring that I can see is longer life span because the factory lube is captured by the o-rings.

But maybe you have a good reason to do the conversion...


FR

 

[joe c]

sprocket specialist will make just about anything for you. although sizing down just means the turn alum rears on a lathe. they have a $15 setup fee.


fr is right though.

jc

 

[ROSKO]

Ha! wanna hear something funny? Sprocket specialist does not list the cb450! So you'll have to get their part # for a cb500t bolt pattern (used the same rear hub). Every time I order one I point this out to them.

BORN TO LURK, FORCED TO WORK.
www.NYCvinMoto.com
www.VinMoto.org

 

[joe c]

they dont list alot of stuff. thats why you have to call them. for example, they dont list any 520 conversions. the alum sprockets i just got from them are 530 turned down im pretty sure. kinda lame. and i didnt get any stickers like they promised!

jc

 

[robertob]

Cool - thanks for the tips.

I already plugged the oiler while I had it apart a few months back.

As for the current sprockets, they're both in pretty good shape - the chain just has stiff spots from sitting around for 20 years without being ridden - it's actually not that worn but it won't free up even after soaking in solvent for a week and gear oil for a few days.

I'll just drop by the local mc shop and buy some plain 530 chain - for one thing it'll be a whole lot cheaper than some fancy oring stuff, and much cheaper than converting to 520.

 

[robertob]

Oh - and Geeto the deal with CB450s and oring chain is technically the clutch actuating arm, not so much the cases. If you run a wider-than-stock chain it grinds into the arm and can cause it to break. One of the motors I have has that damage.

 

[jbranson]

I've had some custom sprockets done at Sprocket Specialist...they ain't cheap. Well...not cheap when you are buying a selection of them for a race bike anyway.
Once tried to turn down the width of a steel counter sprocket....quickly found out it was case hardened steel which doesn't machine very well at all.
JohnnyB

 

[ROSKO]

Joe, Don't sweat it, the new stickers are gay* anyway.


*(in the bad way)

BORN TO LURK, FORCED TO WORK.
www.NYCvinMoto.com
www.VinMoto.org