• Premium Pick

  

  Dirt Tricks Chain and Zirconium Sprocket Kit

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• Best Value

  

  Sunstar Chain and Aluminium Sprocket Combo

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• Best Chain Lube

  

  No Toil Biodegradable Dirt Bike Chain Lube With Wax

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Choosing the right Dirt Bike chain and sprocket kit is crucial in the quest for power, reliability and endurance in the harsh conditions of the track or country.  The choices for these particular Motocross parts might appear technical; What is a Z-ring chain? What are the different terms for a front and rear Dirt Bike sprocket? …but with a little patience and the help of our top ten recommendations you will soon see the wood from the trees.  As well as balancing factors like weight, material strength and composition we will help you familiarize yourself with whatever link-size, tensile strength and basic chain type suits your riding preferences.

Read our basic explanation of Dirt Bike chains & sprockets at the bottom of this article.

Just a word about price; we have included a broad range of pricing options in our top ten list, and the over-all price of each set will vary greatly depending on what dirt bike sprocket and chain combination you choose.  The most affordable options are priced as low as $60-$70 and the higher-end kits are around the $300 dollar mark.  

Whether you are carrying out a repair, replacing old worn parts or considering an upgrade it really is worth taking the time to consider which Dirt Bike Chain and Sprocket set is the right one for you. Every one of our recommendations is from a highly reputable manufacturer that offers high-quality products and great customer service, so if you try and buy elsewhere to save money you might not get either of those.  

Top 10 Best Dirt Bike Chain and Sprocket sets 2023

1. JT 520 Steel Sprocket And Chain Kit

JT Sprockets is one of the world’s leading manufacturer of aftermarket sprockets, constantly trying to raise the industry’s standards for quality and service. They supply some of the most durable and best quality sprocket available in the marketplace worldwide. They also claim to sell more sprockets than all the other aftermarket brands combined, but this is difficult to confirm.

The JT 520 Steel Sprocket And Chain Kit includes ONE JT Steel Front Sprocket, ONE JT Steel Rear Sprocket, and your choice of ONE Premium Drive Chain, each with the following features:

Front Sprocket:

Manufactured using the latest generation of computer design and control metal cutting equipment and only the finest grade of SCM420 chromoly steel alloy.

• Made exclusively from the finest high carbon steel.
• Outlasts any mild steel or surface hardened sprocket.
• Heat treated and hand finished to meet or exceed the highest possible quality standards.

Rear Sprocket:

JT Steel Sprockets are manufactured using the finest grade of C49 high carbon steel.

• Made exclusively from the finest high carbon steel.
• Outlasts any mild steel or surface hardened sprocket.
• Heat treated and hand finished to meet or exceed the highest possible quality standards.
• Black version uses an induction-hardened black zinc finish.

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2. Vortex 520 CAT5 Sprocket And Chain Kit 

Founded in 1995 in Florida, Vortex Racing has become a brand of choice for professional race teams and supercross & motocross champions worldwide. Nowadays, this company is based in Salt Lake City, Utah. It is owned and operated by motorcycle enthusiasts and racers and offers a wide spectrum of premium quality parts for street and dirt bikes. Created as a result of brilliant engineering and manufactured from the finest materials available, Vortex chains, sprockets, and other components are synonymous with high performance and durability.

The 520 CAT5 Sprocket And Chain Kit includes ONE Steel Countershaft (Front) Sprocket, ONE CAT5 Rear Sprocket, and your choice of ONE Premium 520 Drive Chain, each with the following features:

Vortex Front Steel Sprocket:

• Made of the highest quality steel.
• Case hardened.
• Drilled lightening holes on most applications.

Vortex CAT5 Rear Sprocket:

Utilizes the same Vortex design with a color anodizing that excludes sweeps, mud grooves and teeth. The result is a bright flash of color in red, blue, gold or black (available colors vary by bike model) with bright silver highlights.

• Cat 5 anodized.
• 100% CNC machined.
• Vortex patent pending design.
• Saber tooth grooves.

British designed and in-house manufactured in the UK, Talon gearbox sprockets are made from heat-treated and zinc-coated case-hardened chromoly-steel.  These are precision Motocross parts which boast craftsmanship and quality manufacturing processes including internal inspection to ensure a hard, flat surface finish which can maintain a higher level of performance for longer. 

The rear sprocket is designed for maximum durability and is constructed from anodized aircraft-spec aluminium.  Add your choice of premium Dirt Bike chains, and consider features like gold or steel finish, link weight and shot-peening which increases strength and durability.

• 1 Aluminium Countershaft and 1 Aluminium Rear sprocket with a choice of premium drive Chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 4,200 to 9,000 pounds
• Master Link types: Clip, Rivet and Clip, Rivet, Press-fit Clip

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3. Pro Taper Dirt Bike Chain and Sprocket kit

Pro Taper dirt bike sprockets are durable and lightweight and available to fit most Dirt Bike makes and models.  The Front Sprocket is precision broached and machined with lightening holes to reduce weight and a special coating to deliver enhanced strength and wear resistance.  It has mud grooves to help clear debris and prolong chain life, and has laser-etched teeth numbering for easy identification. 

The Race Spec (RS) rear sprocket is constructed from heat-treated anodized aluminium and also has laser-etched teeth numbers.  The Pro taper mud-groove design and construction boasts 44% more tooth area than standard designs so should outlast many competitors.  Add your careful choice of premium Dirt Bike chains, remembering that non-sealed chains are normally recommended for off-road use and require more regular maintenance than sealed chains.

• 1 Steel Countershaft and 1 Aluminium Rear sprocket with a choice of premium drive chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 4,200 to 8,000 pounds
• Master Link types: Clip, Rivet, Rivet and Clip

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4. Dirt Tricks Chain and Sprocket Kit

These high-performance Dirt Bike parts from Dirt Tricks are strong, high-grade and have a unique minimalist design and appearance. They are all designed and made in the USA.  The super-tough front sprocket is machined from shock-resistant tool steel with a “through” hardening process for strength and longevity. 

The rear sprocket is constructed from Chrome-moly steel which is 2.5 times stronger than stainless steel and 3 times stronger than standard aluminium, and has a laser-etched heat-treated nickel/chrome plated coating for increased resistance to wear and dirt.  These sprockets are tough but surprisingly lightweight and are machined to the tightest industry standards.  You need to add your selection of premium Dirt Bike chains to match these products so pay close attention to the Wear life index rating. 

• 1 Steel Countershaft and 1 Steel Rear sprocket with a choice of premium drive chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 4,200 to 8,650 pounds
• Master Link types: Clip, Rivet, Rivet and Clip

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5. Sunstar Chain and Aluminium Combo

There are many good reasons why Sunstar is the world’s largest OEM supplier of sprockets.  Their Motocross parts are all superior quality, have exclusive manufacturing processes including heat-treatment and quenching, and are based on some of the most extensive research and design in the industry. 

This Sunstar front sprocket is constructed from strong and durable case-hardened chromoly steel with a “Parkerizing” anti-rust and corrosion surface treatment.  The rear sprocket is made from aerospace grade 7075 T6 Aluminium with a hard anodized coating for a super-durable finish, and the exclusive tooth-valley innovation provides 24% better chain contact than standard designs. 

Sunstar computer designs also include weight-reduction holes for lightness.  Complete your Chain and Sprocket set with your choice from a selection of premium Dirt Bike chains that includes many higher tensile strength options.

• 1 Steel Countershaft and 1 Aluminium Rear sprocket with a choice of premium drive chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 4,200 to 9,000
• Master Link types: Clip, Rivet, Rivet and Clip

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6. Turner Performance Products Sprocket and Chain Kit 

Turner Performance Products represent high-quality Dirt Bike parts at affordable prices.  These Motocross parts are built to rival their more expensive rivals but are offered at highly competitive prices making them the ideal entry-level choice or perfect for inexpensive spares and fixes. 

The front sprocket is made from heat-treated high-carbon steel which outlasts any surface-hardened material.  The rear sprocket is constructed from 7075 T6 aluminium with computer-designed pattern and 100% CNC machining for precision and increased wear, and the reduced rotating mass improves acceleration and deceleration. 

Turner Performance Products are anodized in a variety of colours to suit your ride and are made in the USA.  Add your choice of premium Turner Performance Products Dirt Bike chains all of which are priced to keep this set at a great affordable price.

• 1 Steel Countershaft and 1 Aluminium Rear sprocket with a choice of premium drive chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 4,300 to 8,500 pounds
• Master Link types: Clip

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7. Dirt Tricks Chain and Zirconium Sprocket Kit

These Dirt Bike parts are tough, long-lasting and innovative, and this set contains a front sprocket made from high grade shock-resistant tool steel with Dirt Tricks’ “through” hardening process and machined to the tightest, American-made industry standards. 

The Zirconium rear sprocket delivers a revolutionary change in weight and colour, being two ounces lighter than their own chrome-plated sprocket and comparable to aluminium construction.  The new coating reduces friction by up to 50% which massively enhances durability, and the colour brings a great new look to your ride. Add your choice of premium Dirt Bike chains to this set, and you might just want to consider a gold finish to complete the look.

• 1 Steel Countershaft and 1 Zirconium Rear sprocket with a choice of premium drive chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 4,200 to 8,650 pounds
• Master Link types: Clip, Rivet, Rivet and Clip

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8. Renthal Best Dirt Bike Chain and Sprocket Kit

Renthal Motocross parts have a reputation for offering high-performance strength at affordable prices.  This front sprocket is constructed from super-strong 655M13 nickel-chrome-molybdenum alloy steel with self-cleaning mud grooves and precision machining.  The rear sprocket is made from specially enhanced 7075 T6 aluminium alloy and has precision-designed tooth profile and concentricity for maximum power transfer and long-life durability. 

Renthal rear chainwheels are 33% lighter than steel with a hard anodized finish and are engineered to have a reduced unsprung revolving weight at the rear wheel to minimise loss of power.  Compatible with your choice of premium 520 Dirt Bike chain to complete this hard-wearing set.

• 1 Steel Countershaft and 1 Aluminium Rear sprocket with a choice of premium 520 drive chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 7,200 to 8,650 pounds
• Master Link types: Clip, Rivet, Rivet and Clip

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9. Supersprox Motocross Chain and Socket Kit

Supersprox Dirt Bike parts are built to last.  Their focus is on strength and durability which saves on replacement and maintenance costs.  The front sprocket is constructed from SCM-435 case-hardened steel with a refined core structure to prevent teeth breaking as they wear out, and with the grooves and lightening holes this claims to be the strongest and lightest sprocket on the market. 

The Supersprox Stealth steel tooth sprocket is available for all riding types right up to 1400cc displacement.  It is an aluminium/steel hybrid which will last 3 times longer than a standard aluminium sprocket and is up to 50% lighter than a steel equivalent product.  Supersprox designed the Stealth in 2000 and since then have counted multiple Motocross world titles and Dakar wins. 

It is sold with an impressive guarantee to “outlast, outperform and outshine the competition or your money back”.  Complete the set with your choice of premium 520 high-tensile Dirt Bike chain.

• 1 Steel Countershaft and 1 Steel/Aluminium Rear sprocket with a choice of premium 520 drive chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 7,644 to 9,000 pounds
• Master Link types: Clip, Rivet

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10. Sunstar 520 Aluminium Sprocket and Chain Kit

Sunstar weigh in with this Sprocket and Chain set to include a heavier-tensile 520 premium Dirt Bike chain to go with their case-hardened chromoly steel front sprocket with “Parkerizing” rust and corrosion-inhibiting surface treatment and their aerospace grade 7075 T6 aluminium rear sprocket with exclusive tooth valley design for maximum contact and power transfer. 

When you come to add your choice of premium drive chains to this set the multiple seal or ring options available include Q4 seal-ring from Bikemaster which offers up to twice the lifespan of regular O-ring chains and has an average tensile strength of 9,000-9,500 pounds.

• 1 Steel Countershaft and 1 Aluminium Rear sprocket with a choice of premium 520 drive chain
• Chain tensile strengths from 8,062 to 9,400 pounds
• Master Link types: Clip, Rivet

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So that’s the top ten complete, but we just couldn’t end a round-up of Dirt Bike Sprocket and Chain sets without mentioning these next two crucial additions to your potential purchase.  You’re always going to need a good Dirt Bike chain lube, so let’s call these bonus reviews!

Best Dirt Bike Chain Lube

Remember when you’re cleaning your Dirt Bike chain, lubricant is vital after every ride or race but excessive lube can attract dirt and debris into the mechanism.  Spray evenly across the chain and sprocket assembly and let the lube wick into the joints as the chain moves. 

1. Renthal All Condition Dirt Bike Chain Lube

This all condition Dirt Bike chain lube is compatible with all O-ring and non O-ring chains, and is specially designed for maximum penetration across the chain.  The stable viscosity and high film strength gives great adhesion through a range of temperatures and the nozzle design ensures it is easy to apply.  This great Renthal Dirt Bike chain lube helps achieve maximum power transfer and increases chain, chain-ring and sprocket life.

• Handy 250 ml size
• 100% lubricant, zero propellant
• Multiple 5-star user reviews

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2. No Toil Biodegradable Dirt Bike Chain Lube With Wax

The powerful No Toil Dirt Bike chain lube has a triple action that lubricates, protects and cleans your Dirt Bike chain, and is suitable for all O-ring and non O-ring chains.  It is biodegradable and non-toxic, unlike petroleum-based Dirt Bike chain lubes that can be harmful to your body’s organs and immune-system. 

• One size, 12 oz bottle
• Overspray without harming the environment
• Engineered to adhere to your chain in the harshest conditions

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Basics of Motocross/Dirt Bike Chains and Sprockets

Types of Dirt Bike Chains

The two basic types are unsealed chains and O-ring chains (or other variants like z-ring chains).  O-ring chains have individual buffered 0-rings on each roller to seal and protect the contact with the chain links.  Unsealed chains don’t have these 0-rings so rely on third party lubrication to keep the movement supple and smooth.  Most Dirt Bikes can run with either kind, although there are width differences so be certain yours is compatible before you purchase. O-ring chains are generally perceived to drag on the power transfer due to the additional friction involved, however they can add a significant level of protection to your chain to prolong its life and require less maintenance.

Every recommendation in our top ten Best Dirt Bike Chain and Sprocket sets links to a page with an easy drop-down make and model guide so you can check the compatibility of your bike and have total peace of mind before you buy.

Understanding Dirt Bike Chain Sizes

The size of your chain is represented by a 3 digit number, usually starting with either a 4, 5 or 6.  This first digit is the most important as it indicates the “pitch” or the distance from one pin to the next.  A 4 means 4/8 of an inch, a 5 means 5/8 and a 6 means 6/8 of an inch.  This system accounts for the vast majority of chains you will come across although please be aware some companies have converted their sizing to decimals.  The remaining two digits of the chain size can relate to various things like width, roller diameter and model number.

What’s the difference between 520 and 525 spockets & chains?

When it comes to motorbike sprockets and chains, size matters! The numbers 520 and 525 actually refer to the pitch or spacing of the chain links. Think of it like the “linkiness” of the chain. A 520 chain has smaller links with a pitch of 5/8 inch (15.875 mm), while a 525 chain has slightly larger links with the same pitch. It’s like comparing mini marshmallows to regular marshmallows – they’re both delicious, but one is a tad bigger!

Now, here’s where things get interesting. The strength of the chain is where the real difference comes into play. Due to its larger size, a 525 chain is generally stronger than a 520 chain. It’s like comparing Hulk to Spider-Man – both are superheroes, but Hulk has more muscle power! The increased size of the links in a 525 chain allows it to handle higher levels of torque and power, making it ideal for larger and more powerful motorcycles that demand extra oomph.

Advantages

So, what’s the advantage of a 525 chain? Well, with its increased strength, it’s built to handle more power and torque, making it suitable for high-performance motorcycles. It’s like having a heavyweight champion in your corner, providing peace of mind when you’re revving up the engine and pushing your bike to its limits.

On the other hand, the advantage of a 520 chain lies in its lighter weight and smaller size, which can contribute to improved acceleration and performance for smaller motorcycles. It’s like having a nimble ninja that can swiftly maneuver through tight spaces.

Disadvantages

However, there’s a trade-off. The smaller size and lighter weight of a 520 chain may not be suitable for larger motorcycles with high horsepower, as it may not provide the same level of durability and strength. It’s like trying to lift heavy weights with chopsticks – it might not hold up under extreme pressure!

Conclusion

In conclusion, the main differences between 520 and 525 motorbike sprockets and chains are the size and strength. A 525 chain is larger and stronger, making it ideal for larger and more powerful motorcycles. On the other hand, a 520 chain is smaller and lighter, potentially offering improved acceleration and performance for smaller motorcycles. It’s important to consider your motorcycle’s specifications, power requirements, and usage to determine which type of chain is the best fit for your ride.

Replacing or Removing Dirt Bike Chains

Removing or replacing your Dirt Bike chain shouldn’t be a difficult process, you will probably need a pair of regular or needle-nose pliers to remove the clip on the master link, and possibly a flat-blade screwdriver to lever it off its housing.  Different kinds of master link fastenings are used throughout the industry, some are riveted, some clipped and some press or slip-fitted.  The type of master link used is not relevant to your bike, only to the chain itself so make sure you are familiar with whatever connection you have with your current chain and the style of your new one.  Specialist tools are widely available to help with this process.

Remember to keep your dirt bike chain clean!

One of the most important things to remember is to keep your Dirt Bike chain clean!  A properly cleaned chain will have a much longer lifespan and can make a noticeable difference to your bike’s controllability.  When cleaning your Dirt Bike chain avoid compressed air or water pressure-washers as these can force dirt into the contact points, increase wear and even damage the rings.  Use old-fashioned soap and water with an added degreasing agent, and dry it off manually with a clean rag.  After cleaning you must always apply Dirt Bike chain lube, and we have added a couple of recommendations to the end of our top ten list to help you out.

Finally, keep your chain tension adjusted as precisely as you can.  Make sure the rear axle is perfectly aligned with the swing arm and countershaft and allow three fingers of play. Also make sure the dirt bike sprocket is perfectly in line with the chain!

How to Boost Your Dirt Bike’s Performance: Sprocket Secrets for Motocross and Off-Road Riding

Imagine you’re tearing up the dirt tracks on your trusty dirt bike or motocross machine, and you’re looking for ways to squeeze out that extra bit of performance. Well, tinkering with your sprockets can be a game-changer!

Adding a Tooth to the Front Sprocket: Boosting Acceleration

When it comes to motocross or dirt bike riding, adding a tooth to the front sprocket can give your bike that extra burst of acceleration off the starting line. It’s like getting a turbo boost at the beginning of a race – you’ll be able to launch out of the gate like a rocket and leave your competition eating your dust. This can be a huge advantage in motocross races where the holeshot can make all the difference.

Removing a Tooth from the Front Sprocket: Enhancing Low-End Grunt

On the flip side, removing a tooth from the front sprocket can give you more low-end grunt for tackling tight corners and technical sections. It’s like having an extra dose of torque to power through challenging terrain like a boss. This can be a game-changer in dirt bike trails or motocross tracks where tight turns and tricky obstacles require precise control and power.

Adding a Tooth to the Rear Sprocket: Increasing Torque and Traction

Now, let’s talk about the rear sprocket. Adding a tooth to the rear sprocket can give you more torque and traction for conquering steep inclines or soft soil. It’s like having a bulldozer pushing you forward, making it easier to tackle those gnarly uphill sections or ride through loose dirt. This can be a huge advantage in off-road riding where traction and torque are essential for conquering challenging terrains.

Removing a Tooth from the Front Sprocket: Enhancing Low-End Grunt

On the other hand, removing a tooth from the rear sprocket can give you more top-end speed for those thrilling jumps and high-speed sections. It’s like unleashing the beast and letting your bike fly! This can be beneficial for motocross tracks with long straightaways or sections where maintaining high speeds is crucial.

Considerations When Changing Sprocket Tooth Count

But keep in mind that changing sprocket tooth count can affect the overall performance of your dirt bike or motocross machine, and it’s important to consider your riding style, track conditions, and bike specifications to find the right balance of acceleration, torque, and top-end speed that suits your needs.

Conclusion: Tweaking Your Sprocket Tooth Count to Enhance Performance

In conclusion, tweaking your sprocket tooth count can make a significant difference in the performance of your dirt bike or motocross machine, enhancing acceleration, torque, and top-end speed. It’s like adding a secret sauce to your bike’s performance recipe and taking your riding to the next level! So, go ahead and experiment with different sprocket setups to find the perfect formula for your motocross or dirt bike adventures!

Whatever Motocross parts you are buying and wherever you are riding and racing, stay safe in the saddle, stay protected and have fun!

PS! Do not forget to read this related article about the best dirt bike wheels and rims.