Chain Master Links

24MX Chain Master Link: A Vital Connection in the Chain of Command

Motorcycle chains are an essential dirt bike component. Once the time comes for either replacement or removal, a master link will make the job easy. 24MX’s impressive range of master links will make maintenance trouble-free.

What is a master link?

When you buy a replacement motorcycle chain, it often comes as a single length rather than an endless loop. Manufacturers offer chains in various sizes based on pin and roller dimensions with the number of links based on factory-fitted sprockets.

It’s necessary to fit a new drive chain with the back wheel in place. It should meet on the rear sprocket with a gap, precisely one link wide. It’s here that the chain master link fits, and without it, replacement or removal of the chain for cleaning would become a challenge. The master link, or to give it its British name, the split link, connects the ends of the drive chain to create an endless loop.

Why do you need a master link?

In theory, an endless chain is stronger in terms of tensile strength as there is no weak link. At one time, motorcycle manufacturers, including Kawasaki and Suzuki, fitted endless chains as standard on their early sports bikes. For some models, this required removal of the swingarm for replacement, making it costly and time-consuming.

The number one reason for a chain master link is its ease of use. It is possible to remove a link in a matter of moments to either replace the chain or remove it for cleaning.

Are there different types of master links?

There are two types of chain master links, the clip link, and the rivet link. The clip link uses an outer plate with two fixed pins. These locate in the holes at each end of the chain. The end of the grooved pins protrudes, and a plain outer plate fits over the pins. Finally, the circlip is forced over the end of the pins to locate in the grooves. The closed end of the circlip always points toward the direction of travel.

The rivet link has fewer parts. These include an outer plate with fixed pins and a plain outer plate. In the same way as the clip link, the plate with the fixed pins connects both ends of the chain. When the plain plate is in position and over the pins, you’ll need a specialist tool to compress the ends of the pins into a mushroom shape. This action holds the plate in place and rivet link pins are either solid or hollow.

Seals

Both types of master links may come with O, X, or W-rings. These place over the pins before fixing the plain outer plate in position.

Does one size chain master link fit all chains?

Both types must be the same size as your motorcycle’s chain, whether a split or rivet link. Master links clearly state their sizes in the product description, such as 420, 428, or 520. These sizes are the same pitch and roller dimensions as your motorcycle chain.

Should I buy the same brand master link as the chain?

In theory, as chain sizes and master links are standardized, if the link is the correct size, it will be an exact fit regardless of brand. However, if the master link and chain are the same brands, they will have undergone the same manufacturing and production processes, which may give you added peace of mind.

Which is the best master link, clip or rivet?

Both types of chain master links have pros and cons. The clip link makes maintenance or trackside repair easy and fast. Alternatively, the rivet link is more secure when in position, so it may be a more confident choice for long-distance dirt bike riders.

It’s your choice, but whichever you choose, 24MX can provide the missing link.