Chain Opinions Wanted

[Apache Bronco]

I am researching in anticipation of my 2 stroke cruiser build, and I ran across some chain options. Stock chain is 415, but others are recommending 420 or 41 size chains. I live in the foothills with slight rolling inclines/declines. Should I stay with the 415 or upgrade?
Thanks, Lisa

 

[Greg58]

41 is the best I've found. The chain on my black bike is 8+ years old.

 

[Venice Motor Bikes]

I've been building these bikes since 2007... I've never had a single problem with the #415 chain that comes in the kits... (in fact, I even use a thinner #410H (BMX chain) on my 2-stroke race bikes).

The trick is to make sure the rear sprocket is mounted on the wheel as perfectly as possible & that the two sprockets line up as well as possible.

 

[allen standley]

I too use #41 machine chain. tractor supply 10 feet 20.00. Enough for 2 bikes. Buy local and you can be sure to find master links and half links if you need one. The kit Chains are 415H. don't forget the "H" they are different from and not compatible with 415, 420 nor the #41.

 

[allen standley]

The only prob with kit chain is I can't buy links local for them. But never a failure prob.
I don't use the guide wheels (tensioner). so I need to jump and run if I need a link or half.

 

[Greg58]

Allen that's why it went with the 41, tractor supply is only 2 miles from me. Norm has been doing this longer and has built many more than I have, if someone knows what to do to start with they can make just about any chain work. My first kits came with standard 410 single speed bike chain, thats what got me to using the 41. The 24" bike I built has a 415 kit chain and hasn't had a problem either, but I've learned a lot since 2010.

 

[allen standley]

I'm with you on this one Greg. Same here T.S. less than 5 mi away.

 

[bairdco]

I use the KMC 415H bmx chains. Never had any problems.

 

[Jimmy Bloodmaker]

i run #420 racing chain. yeah it has a little drag, but puts up with me on and off the throttle climbing hills etc. like $11 bucks or so with the master link. i've broke 415 and smaller, never broke a 420 yet. fit's all the motorized bike sprockets i've bought, and i have quite a few. i just keep my chain well lubed and cleaned. the kit chains suck. stretch like a rubber band. #420 is a bit more forgiving in the alignment too. can have a bit of wobble in the sprocket or rim and it still finds a tooth. if i can build a 37 mph bike with 'em, they just fine in my book. i ain't looking for more speed, i like longevity.