I have a '98 banshee and it is time to replace the chain and sprockets. I am getting a D.I.D. 520 ATV x-ring chain because it is supposed to last the longest. For the rear sprocket should I go with aluminum or steel? I know aluminum is lighter, but does it hold up as good? Will my chain outlast my rear sprocket?

 

steel

 

Sidewinders last longer. www.sidewindersprockets.com Their website has a lot of information about different types/materials of sprockets and chains and can get you pointed in the right dirrection.

 

Sidewinder also makes Stainless steel and Titanium sprockets now.

 

sidewinder discontinued the stainless steel sprockets over a year ago, but the ti-series is what I have on my bike.....I live in florida and mostly ride in sand and my sprocket looks almost new....

 

The weight difference isnt enough to worry about. but dont bother with a "cheap" steel sprocket. if you can afford it ($60+ for billet much more for the Ti) get the sidewinder, otherwise a good renthal ultralight ($49) is a also a good choice

 

If you're not racing get the steel.

 

i've had my sidewinder less than 5 months and a tooth is already broken. i don't mean chipped. it's broken down into the sprocket. when i called s.w. they said "when you have a machine producing that much power these things happen." i might understand if this was on a zx12 or something. i would not be too surprised if maybe i broke it from slamming a rock on the rear but, this was on the front. 12 tooth. i realize these things happen but to claim the strength their sprockets have and then not stand behind this is not good business. he did offer to take a little off if i bought a new one.haha. they got thier last 60+ bucks from me.

 

I will first tell you what kind of riding that I do, I race Hare Scrambles about every other weekend for a total of about 20+ per year and on the off weekend we go riding for practice. This is the GNCC's and the local Mo hare scrambles series. I have found out that the best and longest lasting sprokets are OEM or steel from Sproket Specieties. I can get about 5-8 races on the front and it has to be changed. The teeth are starting to point and wear. On the rear 12-15 races and the teeth are wearing out the same. I use 2 fronts for every rear. Also, when I change the rear I put a new chain on. I just use a basic o-ring DID or RK chain. I have never broken or had a chain problem in 15 years with them. We don't buy the more expensive products, unless it is given to us. And, most of the time they don't last as long as the OEM sprokets and the same with brakes pads.

 

If you can afford to replace the aluminum sprocket more often and don't mind the additional maintenance, go with the aluminum....yes the chain should outlast the sprocket and yes a worn sprocket will shorten the chains life.



<< they got thier last 60+ bucks from me. >>

Was that $60 for a front sprocket only?
What do you guys have invested in your Sidewinder set-up?