Product Catalog 
D.I.D Chain Q&A Collection
What material is D.I.D chain made of?
D.I.D chains are made of special steel that is stronger than regular steel. Each component – plates, rollers, pins, and bushes – uses a different type of steel optimized for its function. In the past, titanium was tested for racing D.I.D chains, but due to its low toughness and risk of breakage, it is not used now.
What components make up a D.I.D chain?
A D.I.D chain consists of 5 main parts:
-
Plates (inner and outer): support load together with the pin
-
Pin: connects plates and acts as an axis for chain flexing, requires high shear and bending strength
-
Bush: serves as a bearing for the pin
-
Roller: meshes with sprocket teeth, absorbs impact, protects bushes and pins from abnormal wear
-
Seal rings (such as X-ring or O-ring): retain grease between pin and bush, reducing friction and wear
What do the numbers on D.I.D chain sizes mean?
D.I.D chain sizes are shown in three digits:
-
First digit: pitch (distance between pins). “5” means 5/8 inch (15.875mm).
-
Last two digits: inner width of the plate.
For example, 520, 525, and 530 all have the same pitch but different widths.
What does the number of links on a D.I.D chain mean?
The number of links is the total count of inner and outer plate pairs in the chain. It can also be counted by pin numbers. Always follow the specified number of links when replacing to ensure proper fit and function.
How should I choose the right D.I.D chain?
Selecting a D.I.D chain matching engine displacement is crucial.
-
420/428: 50–125cc
-
520: medium bikes
-
525: medium to large bikes
-
530: large bikes
D.I.D offers VX (touring), ZVM-X (mega cruisers), and ERV7 (racing) series, each optimized for durability, weight, and friction performance.
What is the difference between D.I.D racing chains and street chains?
D.I.D racing chains are lighter with lower friction but have shorter lifespan. For instance, the 520ERV7 has hollowed pin centers for weight reduction and often needs replacement after around 500km of racing.
What chains do MotoGP bikes use?
MotoGP teams use special forged 520 D.I.D chains. These combine lightweight with high rigidity, handling over 300 horsepower. All used chains are collected, disassembled, and analyzed for product improvement. If sold commercially, they would cost over 1 million yen.
How do OEM D.I.D chains differ from aftermarket D.I.D chains?
They differ greatly. OEM chains are designed specifically for each motorcycle, balancing cost and performance. Aftermarket D.I.D chains are built for broader use with approximately 20% higher performance than OEM.
What are the benefits of plated D.I.D chains?
D.I.D plated chains prevent rust and enhance appearance. Their mechanical performance is unchanged, but reduced rust makes maintenance easier.
What are the features of black D.I.D chains?
D.I.D black chains are heat-painted for rust prevention and aesthetics. Strength and performance remain the same. However, they are rarely used in racing due to the added weight of the paint coating.
Can I change D.I.D chain size from stock?
Switching from 530 to 520 reduces chain and sprocket weight by about 20%, improving handling. However, narrower chains increase pressure on sprockets, shortening lifespan by 30–50%.
What does it mean when a D.I.D chain “stretches”?
It is not the plates elongating, but wear between pins and bushes creating gaps. If each link wears by 0.1mm, a 100-link chain becomes 1cm longer. Initial adjustment is required after 500–1000km.
Why is an overly tight D.I.D chain bad?
Too much tension restricts suspension movement, reducing ride stability. Proper slack is necessary for safe operation.
How can I tell when a D.I.D chain needs replacement?
Sealed chains should be replaced every 15,000–20,000km, non-sealed chains every ~5,000km. If you need to adjust tension over ~1cm from original position, it is time to replace.
Which way should the D.I.D clip master link face?
The open end of the clip should face opposite to the chain travel direction to prevent it from coming off upon contact.
Does a chain cover extend D.I.D chain life?
Yes. It protects the D.I.D chain from dust and water, significantly increasing durability, especially for non-sealed chains on underbone models.
Do sealed D.I.D chains need maintenance?
Yes. Although they retain grease internally, seals are rubber and age over time. Periodic lubrication protects seals and keeps operation smooth.
Can I clean D.I.D chains with kerosene or brake cleaner?
Not for sealed chains. Such cleaners damage rubber seals. Use dedicated D.I.D chain cleaners instead.
What is the proper way to maintain a D.I.D chain?
Clean immediately after riding while the chain is warm (for better cleaner penetration). Use a soft brush and dedicated cleaner, dry thoroughly, apply D.I.D chain lube, and wipe excess.
Can I continue using a rusted D.I.D chain?
Technically yes, but it is unsafe. External rust indicates possible internal corrosion, increasing breakage risk while riding.
Is D.I.D chain maintenance necessary after riding in rain?
Absolutely. Rain washes away lube, leading to rust and rapid wear. Always re-lube after riding in wet conditions.
How should I store a D.I.D chain when not riding for long periods?
Clean and lube the chain before storage. Sealed chains have a lifespan of ~5 years, after which seals degrade and performance declines.
Does changing sprocket teeth require changing D.I.D chain length?
A one-tooth change can usually be adjusted with tensioners, but two or more teeth will often require a longer chain. D.I.D does not recommend adding extra links for safety reasons.