Tsubaki Road Chain 520 RQ2 96 Links
The Tsubaki 520 RQ2 road chain in a 96-link length is a premium sealed drive chain designed for road-going motorcycles that demand a balance of durability, efficiency and low part of Tsubaki's RQ2 road series, it combines low-friction X-ring sealing with robust construction, making it suitable for machines up to approximately 150 horsepower.
Key Features
- 520-pitch sealed X-ring chain developed specifically for road motorcycle use, recommended for applications up to around 150 HP.
- 96-link length for typical road motorcycle final-drive setups using a 520 chain, with the option to shorten by removing links during installation.
- Gold-coloured outer plates for a premium appearance and enhanced corrosion resistance in everyday riding conditions.
- Low-friction X-ring design reduces power loss compared with conventional O-ring chains while maintaining long service life.
- Pre-stretched at the factory to minimise initial elongation and help maintain stable chain adjustment after installation.
- Supplied with a hollow-rivet, rivet-type master link compatible with common chain riveting tools.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tsubaki |
| Series | RQ2 Road series sealed chain |
| Chain size | 520 |
| Pitch | 5/8" x 1/4" (15.875 mm x 6.35 mm) |
| Type | Sealed X-ring drive chain |
| Application | Road motorcycles |
| Recommended engine power | Up to approximately 150 HP (RQ2 series guideline) |
| Number of links | 96 |
| Outer plate colour | Gold |
| Inner plate colour | Steel |
| Master link | Hollow-rivet, rivet-type connecting link |
| Pre-stretched | Yes |
Performance and Benefits
- Low-friction X-ring seals help reduce mechanical losses in the final drive, supporting efficient power transfer from engine to rear wheel.
- Sealed construction and high-quality materials provide extended service life compared with non-sealed standard chains, particularly in mixed weather use.
- Factory pre-stretching helps the chain stabilise quickly after installation, reducing the need for frequent early readjustments.
- Gold outer plates add resistance against corrosion caused by water, road salt and dirt, while maintaining a clean, high-end appearance over time.
- Consistent construction quality supports precise sprocket engagement and smooth, predictable throttle response during everyday commuting, sport riding or touring.
Typical Use Cases
The Tsubaki 520 RQ2 96-link road chain is intended for motorcycles with a 520-pitch final drive that require a reliable sealed chain for daily riding, weekend sport use or longer-distance applications include mid-capacity naked bikes, sport motorcycles and road-focused machines where riders choose a 520 chain either as original equipment or as part of a 520 conversion kit paired with suitable front and rear sprockets.
Installation and Setup
The chain is supplied at 96 links and can be shortened by removing links to match the correct length for a specific combination of front and rear sprockets and the motorcycle's swingarm requires appropriate chain cutting and riveting tools, with the hollow-rivet master link designed for use with standard chain setup, final length, alignment and chain tension must follow the motorcycle manufacturer's technical specifications to ensure optimal operation and service life.
