Ever wondered what makes a Harley-Davidson roar and feel so powerful on the open road? A big part of that is its drive system. For many years, Harley riders have enjoyed the classic chain drive, known for its raw power and connection to the machine. But sometimes, that chain needs a little attention, or maybe you’re looking to upgrade your ride.
Choosing the right Harley chain conversion kit can feel like a puzzle. There are so many different parts and brands out there, and it’s tough to know where to start. You want a kit that fits your bike perfectly, performs well, and lasts a long time. Getting it wrong can lead to problems and frustration, taking away from your riding joy.
But don’t worry! This post is here to guide you through the world of Harley chain conversion kits. We’ll break down what makes a good kit, what to look for, and how to pick the one that’s best for your bike and your riding style. By the end, you’ll feel confident in your choice and ready to get your Harley running smoothly.
Top Harley Chain Conversion Kit Recommendations
- Chain Drive Conversion Kit Fit for Harley Touring M8 Twin Cam 2009-Up.
- Chain: 45Mn alloy steel, 530/120. Front Sprocket: 20CrMnTi steel, galvanized, 24 tooth. Rear sprocket : 55# steel, galvanized, 51 teeth.
- Included 1pc 24 tooth front sprocket, 1pc 51 tooth rear sprocket, 1pc Rear sprocket Spacer with offset (Bearing included), 1pc Chain
- A complete set of chain drive tools to meet your various needs
- Please confirm before purchasing whether our products are compatible with your model.
- Fitment: Compatible with Harley Sportster 2004-2023 Models.
- Allows easy conversion from belt drive to chain drive for improved performance and reduces slippage and wear, resulting in smoother operation and less maintenance.
- Constructed with steel and triple plating chrome process, ensuring durability and longevity.
- Conversion kit features with 120 link 530 series chain, 22 tooth front sprocket, 48 tooth rear sprocket, special nut to accept sprocket. (Spacer for 150 Tire included)
- Package Include: 1 x set of chain drive transmission sprocket conversion kit.
- Fitment: 25 tooth Front Sprocket, 53 tooth Rear Sprocket and 120 link 530 chain. This Chain Drive Transmission Sprocket Conversion Kit fits for Harley 2009-Up Touring Twin Cam and M8 Road Glide / Road King / Street Glide / Electra Glide / Ultra Limited / Ultra Classic Models
- Function: Specially designed to upgrade the stock belt drive to chain drive for the rider who demands big power from their Harley Touring Model. Notice: Belt Guard Modification may be required for some new models. A chain breaker may be required during installation. Threadlocker are recommended for tight installation
- Premium Material: The rear sprocket is manufactured from 45# Steel for excellent mechanical properties to withstand wear and tear. The front sprocket is crafted of 20CrMnTi steel for Durable to withstand wear and tear. The Rear Spacer with offset is made of 6061 Aluminium alloy, easier for the engine to turn, which can lead to faster acceleration
- Stable Transmission: The sprockets and the chain is precision CNC machined improves gear mesh accuracy, thus reducing vibration and improving transmission stability. Additionally, they are wear-resistant and durable for high-speed transmission
- Professional Installation Required: Rider and passenger safety depend upon the correct installation of this kit. Improper installation of this kit could result in serious injury. Use the appropriate service manual procedures. If the procedure is not within your capabilities or you do not have the correct tools, have a professional Harley dealer perform the installation
- Fitment: 25 tooth Front Sprocket, 53 tooth Rear Sprocket and 120 link 530 chain. This Chain Drive Transmission Sprocket Conversion Kit fits for Harley 2009-Up Touring Twin Cam and M8 Road Glide / Road King / Street Glide / Electra Glide / Ultra Limited / Ultra Classic Models
- Function: Specially designed to upgrade the stock belt drive to chain drive for the rider who demands big power from their Harley Touring Model. Notice: Belt Guard Modification may be required for some new models. A chain breaker may be required during installation. Threadlocker are recommended for tight installation
- Premium Material: The rear sprocket is manufactured from 45# Steel for excellent mechanical properties to withstand wear and tear. The front sprocket is crafted of 20CrMnTi steel for Durable to withstand wear and tear. The Rear Spacer with offset is made of 6061 Aluminium alloy, easier for the engine to turn, which can lead to faster acceleration
- Stable Transmission: The sprockets and the chain is precision CNC machined improves gear mesh accuracy, thus reducing vibration and improving transmission stability. Additionally, they are wear-resistant and durable for high-speed transmission
- Professional Installation Required: Rider and passenger safety depend upon the correct installation of this kit. Improper installation of this kit could result in serious injury. Use the appropriate service manual procedures. If the procedure is not within your capabilities or you do not have the correct tools, have a professional Harley dealer perform the installation
- Fit for Harley Dyna FXD Super Glide 2006-2017 FXDWG Wide Glide 2006-2017 Softail 2008-UP
- Package included 24 tooth front sprocket, 51 tooth offset rear sprocket, 120 link 530 series chain, chain breaker tool, and rear sprocket spacer
- The X-ring oil seal chain has strong tensile strength and good mute effect.
- A complete set of chain drive tools to meet your various needs
- Please confirm before purchasing whether our products are compatible with your model.
- 【Fitment】: Compatible with Harley Sportster 1100 / 1200 XLH1100 / XLH1200 1994-2003. Compatible with Sportster 1200 Custom XLH1200C/XL1200C 1996-2003. Compatible with Sportster 1200 Sport XL1200S 1996-2003. The 1995-1999 rear sprocket has a 1.985 inch diameter center hole and the 2000-2003 rear sprocket has a 2.214 inch diameter hole to properly Compatible with the stock 1200 Sportster rear wheel. Please check the following fitment list before purchasing.
- 【NOTE】: Compatible with stock Sportster frame or a frame or hardtail which uses stock spacing (such as use the stock rear wheel assembly, brake, and axle spacers). Not Compatible with different axle plate spacing (width) and non-stock width wheel this may affect the rear sprocket alignment. Due to the low clearance when using the stock muffler bracket or stock passenger foot peg bracket, do not use an o-ring chain as the width may cause the chain to wear at these parts during deceleration.
- 【Material】: Material: Steel. The 120 link 530 series chain,transmission sprocket, rear sprocket, sprocket spacer and the included hardware are all Made of highest quality available,ensuring durability and longevity. Allows easy conversion from belt drive to chain drive for improved performance and reduces slippage and wear, resulting in smoother operation and less maintenance.
- 【Maintains stock gearing ratio】: The countershaft (front) sprocket is 22 teeth, and the rear sprocket is 48 teeth, for a 2.18:1 gearing ratio. This means that the countershaft sprocket rotates 2.18 times to spin the rear sprocket one full revolution. The less times the countershaft sprocket has to rotate, the taller the gearing, meaning less power off the line but better high-speed cruising.
- 【Easy installation】: Remove the stock pulleys and simply install the front sprocket, the spacer and rear sprocket with the included proper length chrome plated hardware. Includes all necessary components and hardware for an easy installation. Note: Chain breaker may be required.
- Chain Drive Conversion Kit for Harley Sportster 1991-up.
- Front Sprocket: 20CrMnTi steel, galvanized, 23 tooth. Rear sprocket : 55# steel, galvanized, 48 teeth. Chain: 45Mn alloy steel, 530/120.
- Package included 1pc 23 tooth front sprocket, 1pc 48 tooth rear sprocket, 1pc Rear sprocket Spacer, 1pc Chain, 1pc Chain Breaker Tool Remover
- This chain is wear-resistant and has a long service life, and is suitable for high-speed movements above 250km/h.
- A complete set of chain drive tools to meet your various needs
- Fitment: 25 tooth Front Sprocket, 53 tooth Rear Sprocket and 120 link 530 chain. This Chain Drive Transmission Sprocket Conversion Kit fits for Harley 2009-Up Touring Twin Cam and M8 Road Glide / Road King / Street Glide / Electra Glide / Ultra Limited / Ultra Classic Models
- Function: Specially designed to upgrade the stock belt drive to chain drive for the rider who demands big power from their Harley Touring Model. Notice: Belt Guard Modification may be required for some new models. A chain breaker may be required during installation. Threadlocker are recommended for tight installation
- Premium Material: The rear sprocket is manufactured from 45# Steel for excellent mechanical properties to withstand wear and tear. The front sprocket is crafted of 20CrMnTi steel for Durable to withstand wear and tear. The Rear Spacer with offset is made of 6061 Aluminium alloy, easier for the engine to turn, which can lead to faster acceleration
- Stable Transmission: The sprockets and the chain is precision CNC machined improves gear mesh accuracy, thus reducing vibration and improving transmission stability. Additionally, they are wear-resistant and durable for high-speed transmission
- Professional Installation Required: Rider and passenger safety depend upon the correct installation of this kit. Improper installation of this kit could result in serious injury. Use the appropriate service manual procedures. If the procedure is not within your capabilities or you do not have the correct tools, have a professional Harley dealer perform the installation
Upgrade Your Ride: A Harley Chain Conversion Kit Buying Guide
So, you’re thinking about swapping your Harley’s belt drive for a chain? That’s a big decision, and a chain conversion kit can give your bike a whole new feel. This guide will help you pick the right one.
What to Look For in a Harley Chain Conversion Kit
When you shop for a chain conversion kit, keep these important things in mind.
Key Features to Look For
- Complete Kit: A good kit has everything you need. This means the front and rear sprockets, the chain itself, and any necessary mounting hardware. You don’t want to buy parts separately.
- Sprocket Ratio: The sprockets’ teeth count changes how your bike accelerates and its top speed. A higher tooth count on the rear sprocket gives you quicker acceleration. A lower count gives you a higher top speed. Think about how you ride. Do you want to zoom off the line or cruise on the highway?
- Chain Type: Chains come in different strengths and styles. For most Harleys, a high-quality, sealed O-ring or X-ring chain is best. These keep grease inside and dirt out, making the chain last longer.
- Brand Reputation: Stick with well-known brands. They usually make reliable parts.
Important Materials
- Sprockets: Look for sprockets made from strong steel. This makes them tough and helps them last a long time. Some kits might use aluminum for weight savings, but steel is usually more durable for everyday riding.
- Chain: The chain itself is made of metal links. High-quality chains use hardened steel. The O-rings or X-rings are usually made of strong rubber that can handle heat and wear.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
- Precision Machining: When sprockets are made precisely, they fit perfectly. This means less vibration and smoother riding. Poorly made sprockets can cause problems.
- Heat Treatment: Some sprockets are heat-treated to make them even stronger. This makes them resist wear better.
- Chain Quality: A cheap chain might stretch too quickly or break. A good chain is built to last and handle the power of your Harley.
- Proper Installation: Even the best kit won’t work right if it’s not installed correctly. Always follow the instructions or have a professional do it.
User Experience and Use Cases
- Performance Boost: Many riders choose chain drives for better acceleration and a more connected feel to the engine. It can feel more “raw” and responsive.
- Customization: Chain drives offer more options for changing the look of your bike. You can choose different colored chains and sprockets.
- Maintenance: Chains need regular cleaning and lubrication. This is more work than a belt drive, but many riders enjoy the hands-on aspect.
- Sound: Some people love the distinctive sound of a chain drive. It adds to the classic Harley experience for them.
- Off-Road or Aggressive Riding: If you ride your Harley hard or on rougher roads, a chain drive can be more forgiving than a belt.
Frequently Asked Questions: Harley Chain Conversion Kit
Here are some common questions people ask about Harley chain conversion kits.
Q: Why would I switch from a belt to a chain on my Harley?
A: People switch for better acceleration, a more direct feel from the engine, and more customization options for looks. Some also prefer the classic sound and feel of a chain.
Q: What is a sprocket ratio?
A: The sprocket ratio is the number of teeth on the front sprocket compared to the rear sprocket. It affects how your bike accelerates and its top speed. A higher ratio (more teeth on the rear) means faster acceleration.
Q: Do I need special tools to install a chain conversion kit?
A: Yes, you will likely need some motorcycle-specific tools, like a chain breaker tool and a torque wrench. It’s best to check the kit’s instructions before you start.
Q: How often do I need to maintain a chain drive?
A: You should clean and lubricate your chain regularly, typically every 500 to 1,000 miles, or more often if you ride in wet or dirty conditions. You also need to check its tension.
Q: Will a chain conversion kit make my Harley faster?
A: It won’t add horsepower, but changing the sprocket ratio can make your bike feel faster off the line due to quicker acceleration. The overall top speed might change depending on the ratio.
Q: Are chain drives louder than belt drives?
A: Yes, chain drives usually make more noise than belt drives. Some riders like this sound, calling it a classic motorcycle sound.
Q: Can I use any chain with any sprockets?
A: No, you must use a chain that is the correct size (pitch and width) for your sprockets. Kits are designed to work together.
Q: How long does a chain conversion kit typically last?
A: With proper maintenance, a good quality chain and sprocket kit can last anywhere from 15,000 to 30,000 miles or more. This depends on riding style and maintenance.
Q: Is it hard to install a chain conversion kit myself?
A: For experienced DIY mechanics, it’s manageable. However, if you’re not comfortable working on your motorcycle’s drivetrain, it’s safer to have a professional mechanic install it.
Q: What happens if I don’t maintain my chain properly?
A: An unmaintained chain will wear out much faster. It can become noisy, stretch unevenly, and even break, which can damage your motorcycle.
Melody Smith is a passionate writer, outdoor enthusiast, and camping expert based in the Seattle Metropolitan Area. With a deep love for nature and adventure, she shares her personal experiences, tips, and insights on MyCampingPro.com. A seasoned camper and traveler, Melody combines her creative background in design and writing with her love for the great outdoors, offering practical advice and inspiring stories to help others make the most of their outdoor experiences. When she’s not exploring the wilderness, you can find her painting, collecting vintage treasures, or diving into a good book.