I'm going to replace the chain on my bike soon I read in mcn recently that you can use a split link or a soft link they said there's no safety issue By using a split link people seem to think its because of the power but they said drag bikes use split links the only reason they use soft links is because There easier to fit on the production line when they come out of the factory if that's the case I might go with a split link that way I don't have to buy a chain riviter Just wonderd what peoples views were.
Prob gonna put new chain and sprockets on over the winter. Last chain i bought was a tsubaki gold and that came with a soft link that was easy enough to do but have heard they're now using a hard link so may try a different chain. I wouldn't have thought many,if any,quality chain manufacturers would use a split link on a chain suitable for a fireblade,and for some reason i don't think i'd be comfy using one either.
I wouldn't use a split link. But I only ride on track. Is it worth the extra money and hassle .... For me yes. Could buy a riveter with a mate ? Then u got one for years also
Got a hard link in my current Tsubaki Gold and yes it was a PITA to rivet (as I only had DID type riveter) so used the two hammer method. Fitted the chain for a number of mates and insisted they have soft links ie DIDs as it is only a few minutes to press and rivet the chain. When I get the next one I will deffo get one with a soft link. BTW can you mix and match ie use a did soft link in say a Tsubaki chain? Re split links i'm guessing their advantage is when you need to remove the chain frequently ie dirt applications and racing, personally I would only use it if the aforementioned was a requirement but I only remove when the whole thing needs replacement.
Was advised not to use a split link on machines over 500cc and found out the hard way at the Port of Calais. That was on a 600 don't even think about one on a blade bud.
You will find different chain manufacturers have different size pins in the chain links even if they are the same pitch ie 520 or 530 so if you are buying a spare or new split link you need to make sure it is for the specific chain on your bike.
