Do you remember the last time you cleaned your bike’s chain? Depending on the rigor you ride, you would probably have to clean your chain once a week or twice a month. Dirt and corrosion on the chain affect your bike’s smoothness and sprockets, which get damaged from both the front and rear end.
Today, chain drives are used in the majority of motorbikes. A metal chain connects a set of sprockets. The crankshaft of the engine transmission is attached to one sprocket, which is located on the back wheel. A decent sprocket not only lengthens the life of your chain but also facilitates a smoother transition on your bike.
We researched the internet and found the best performing motorcycle sprockets out there. These sprockets not only won our hearts but the hearts of many consumers online and have garnered great reviews.
Here are what we feel are the top 3 Motorcycle sprockets.
Reviews: Best Motorcycle sprockets
Vortex 520 Front Sprocket
In the world of motorcycles, Vortex Steel Front Sprockets have gained recognition for being robust, stylish, and effective. They have gorgeous zinc plating and perforations on the outside to reduce the weight.
They have finely machined steel underneath the surface. Induction hardening uses a regulated current to increase the temperature of the steel, unlike heat treating. With the use of this technique, Vortex can produce high-quality sprockets with very precise tolerances.
Customers have reported a significant change in the bike gear transition as they changed the sprockets. Their bike became smoother, and their pickup and acceleration also increased. Also, when you look at the image of the sprocket online, the same sprocket doesn’t need to show up at your house.
Depending on the make and model, the sprocket will have certain changes. However, the quality and major specs will remain the same. Vortex Front Sprockets have three pitch options: 530, 525, and 520.
The main features of the Vortex 520 Front Sprocket include:
- Steel with induction hardening
- delivers better concentricity, resulting in a stronger, anti-noise, and long-lasting sprocket.
- Drilled holes into the plate to reduce weight, plating resistant against corrosion, improving the sprocket’s lifetime.
Shop here: Vortex 520 Front Sprocket
Renthal Twinring Rear Sprocket
The Renthal Twinring Rear Sprocket is a rugged sprocket that has undergone extensive testing and development over five years. This special flat-faced two-piece construction preserves a slim profile while minimizing weight and durability.
To ensure that the rings are fixed and do not move laterally, set screws are used in the flat sockets to secure the outer steel and inner aluminum ring together after it has been heated at 200 degrees centigrade causing the sprockets to expand and fit in with each other in perfect harmony.
Most professional Motorcycle racing and Road racing teams choose Renthal Twinring over any other sprocket product. CNC machines are used to carve the sprockets for optimal dimensional accuracy and the ideal tooth shape for optimal life and endurance under the harshest circumstances.
Renthal can produce an incredibly robust and light rear sprocket using CNC machining, which decreases the rotation of redundant weight and permits maximum power transmission to the back wheel. For hardcore Off Roaders or MX riders searching for optimum quality and durability, Renthal created the Twinning Rear Sprocket.
The Renthal Twinring Rear Sprocket have a vast array of features, some of which are:
- Renthal’s technical facilities are controlled by CNC processes ensuring each Twinring sprocket is made to the finest specifications, delivering a precise and dependable fit.
- The inner ring is made of Ultralight 7075 T6 aluminum, resulting in reduced weight.
- The nickel plating on the steel ensured the outer ring had an extremely extended service life.
- Mud grooves assist in extending the sprocket’s useful life by preventing mud buildup.
Shop here: Renthal Twinring Rear Sprocket / Renthal Ultralight Front Sprocket
SuperSprox Steel Rear Sprocket
Steel sprockets with less weight offer the perfect balance of performance and reliability for demanding bikers operating heavy race machines. Compared to similar sprockets, the SuperSprox steel rear sprocket has thicker teeth, extending the product’s life and improving contact with the chain.
The Tri-Zinc coating technique from SuperSprox, which uses 3 different coatings resulting in a triple combo of excellent performance, lifespan, and beautiful aesthetics, is one of the numerous surprises up this sprocket’s sleeve.
A combination of nickel and silver is initially applied to the sprocket to avoid corrosion. The next stage is the coating procedure, in which black passivation seals the steel’s microscopic pores, further preventing corrosive rust and debris from becoming stuck inside the vehicle’s drive components. Lastly, they are given a smooth, glossy protective coating that helps maintain their pristine and attractive look for ages.
Some distinct features of the SuperSprox Steel Rear Sprocket include:
- laser-cut and CAD-designed steel structure
- plated with tri-zinc
- Extra-large, durable sprocket teeth
- Up to 20% less rotational mass results from a lighter core.
- Conserves stock pitch
Shop here: SuperSprox Steel Rear Sprocket / SuperSprox Front Sprocket
Sunstar Rear Works-Z Steel Sprocket
The Sunstar rear sprocket is a great choice for those looking for a sprocket with great self-cleaning capabilities. The alternating offset tooth design helps to extend the life of the entire chain by keeping it clean and free of debris. This is a great option for those who ride in all types of conditions and need a reliable sprocket that will last. It is made from lightweight materials and has an offset tooth design that allows it to be 50% thinner than a traditional 520 steel sprocket. This makes it ideal for use in racing or other high-performance applications where weight savings are critical. The sprocket is also said to offer superior durability and longevity compared to standard steel sprockets.
Shop here: Sunstar Rear Works-Z Steel Sprocket
Pro Taper Race Spec Rear Aluminum Sprocket
ProTaper Race Spec (RS) Rear Sprockets are high-quality and CNC machined to precise tolerances from alloy. This tough and durable material is perfect for withstanding heavy use during off-road riding. The ProTaper sprockets are well-balanced and feature load distribution, reduction of un-sprung rotating mass, and tooth endurance – making them the perfect choice for your next ride!
ProTaper RS sprockets use angled mud groove technology to self-clean as they operate, which prevents dirt buildup that can lead to horsepower loss and rapid sprocket wear. CNC machining the grooves in the opposite direction of the load-bearing teeth creates the largest tooth surface area possible for the chain load to rely on. This proprietary design enhances durability and increases the sprocket / chain contact area by 40%, resulting in more sprocket life over traditional designs.
Shop here: Pro Taper Race Spec Rear Aluminum Sprocket
Frequent Questions about Motorcycle Sprocket
how do motorcycle sprockets work?
A motorcycle sprocket is basically a chain drive transmission that converts the rotational force of the engine into torque and transmits it to the rear wheel. The chain drive transmission consists of a crankshaft, a belt, gear, sprocket and a final drive. The gear part is where the sprocket comes in. If you are a motorcyclist, then you would know that one of the most important components of a bike is the chain and sprocket. Without it, your bike would hardly move. The sprocket does not just help the chain in moving the rear wheel, but it is also an important part of your bike for many other things. The sprocket is attached to the engine and is the part that converts the motion of the engine into motion for the rear wheel. The sprocket is attached to a shaft that is coupled with the rear wheel. There are many types of sprockets, namely the multi-plate clutch, gear and chain. The crankshaft moves and rotates the sprocket. The rotation of the sprocket is transferred to the rear wheel by a chain. This is how the rear wheel gets the power. There are two types of sprockets, namely the small sprocket and the big sprocket.
Are motorcycle sprockets universal?
Motorcycle sprockets are not universal. They are specially made according to the teeth count of the rear wheel and the tooth size of the chain. It is extremely important to use matching sprockets with matching wheels. Using the wrong sprockets can cause severe damage to the chain, the rear wheel and may lead to accidents. The sprockets must be compatible with the chain, the rear wheel and the motorcycle.
How long does a motorcycle chain and sprocket last?
A motorcycle chain connects the crankshaft to the transmission. A properly maintained chain by a skilled technician should last 10,000 miles. The average is 3000 to 8000 miles. A worn chain will cause excessive wear on the sprockets and transmission. The best way to determine if a chain is worn is by looking at the sprockets. If the sprockets are worn, then the chain is more than likely worn also.
How much to change the sprocket on a motorcycle?
The price of a sprocket depends on its size and brand. Also, changing the sprocket requires you to buy a chain, and a chain should cost you from $30 to $50, depending on your bike brand. The gear is probably more expensive and should cost you $100 to $150. A sprocket is cheap, but it could be harder to find one compatible with your bike model. Check our buying review above and find your sprocket.
how often to change the chain and sprocket on a motorcycle
A motorcycle chain and sprocket have a life span of about 10,000 miles. However, it shouldn’t be an issue if you change the chain and sprocket at the right time. It’s a wise idea to get it checked every 6,000 miles or once every other oil change. You can also check the gears on a regular basis. If you notice the chain is wearing down, take it to the nearest mechanic to get it fixed.
Conclusion
With a great bike comes an even greater responsibility to take care of it. Investing in a good sprocket improves the bike’s performance and gives you extra comfort knowing that you and your bike are having a good time.
So, buy now and make your ride the best one out there.
