Product Test: Ironman ATV Sprocket from Dirt Tricks
We’re big on commonly replaced parts that claim extraordinary service life. With that line of reasoning we bolted a 42-tooth Ironman ATV rear sprocket from Dirt Tricks to our Honda TRX400EX test sled and here’s what we discovered.
What Makes the Ironman Sprocket Unique?
Dirt Tricks sprockets are constructed of heat treated, nickel/chrome plated, chrome-molly steel that is 2.5 times stronger than stainless steel; and nearly 3 times stronger than 7075 aluminum.
Are They Heavier Than Aluminum?
A bit, but nothing to get excited about. A Dirt Tricks sprocket typically weighs 18- ounces versus 14-ounces for a comparable 7075 aluminum unit.
How Does Durability Compare?
While we haven’t had our test unit in action long enough to definitely report on long-term durability, we have found the Ironman to be very well constructed and take confidence in Dirt Tricks’ unconditional one-year guarantee: one of the only companies we know of that replaces sprockets for tooth wear (and not just rivet degradation or due flaws in manufacturing).
How Much Do They Cost?
$37 for fronts, $109 for rears (like the one we tested here).
Dirt Tricks also offers Regina Gold Quad Z-Ring chains for $99 as well as chain & both sprocket combos for $189
How Was The Mounting Process?
Quick and painless. The Ironman unit mated perfectly to the OEM boltholes and looked trick to boot. This is certainly a plug & play modification.
Performance:
We would be lying if we told you our testers are sensitive enough to detect changes in our ATV’s handling or performance on account of a fresh rear sprocket but that isn’t to say there isn’t solace to be found in knowing that a commonly replaced item comes with a pretty solid guarantee on wear.
We’ve been running ours for close to 40-hours of performance riding now and can detect absolutely no discernible wear of the sprocket teeth.
Conclusion:
You will pay a bit more initially for the Dirt Tricks’ heat-treated, chromoly steel, nickel plated, laser cut sprocket but suspect the investment will pay off many times over for riders with a habit of wearing out aluminum sprockets but aren’t willing to accept the usual weight penalties associated with running steel.
Dirt Tricks’ website shows photographs of very little worn sprocket teeth after 1000 hours of hard use.
Purchase Info:
Ironman ATV sprockets can be purchased directly from Dirt Tricks’ website.