New Chain and Sprockets

The GB came with the original chain and sprockets when I bought it. The sprockets were in ok shape but the chain was 24 years old and had close to 10000 miles on it so I decided to change it out. It was stretched right to the wear limit. I ordered a new RK 525 gold chain plus new XAM sprockets from "webike" in Japan, who still sell OEM parts for the GB. I went with 14/39 gearing, compared to the stock 15/37. As noted in a previous entry, I was already running a 14 tooth front sprocket with the stock rear, but I decided to go up a couple of teeth on the driven side to make the bike even more snappy at low speeds. Using the standard 108 links, this would also help shorten the wheelbase a little for easier wheelies.... not that I do that sort of thing. I chose a gold chain and sprocket to match the gold pinstriping. It will be a lot more work to keep it clean but I don't mind spending the time detailing my classic motorcycle.

As she sits hibernating in my lair

with original chain and sprockets

Wheel comes off

replacements

  New sprocket installed. The original had a built-in guard. The new one will look a little more sporty

  I have a perfectly good chain breaker but I'm impatient and used the ultra-sophisticated angle grinder method

  All back together. As always, I took my time to clean and detail all of the parts before reassembly.