Tsubaki 525 RQ1 High Performance Road Chain – 94 Links
The Tsubaki 525 RQ1 is a high performance motorcycle drive chain designed for powerful road bikes with engines above 150 hp. As part of Tsubaki's RQ1 road series, it combines high strength, low friction and long service life in a compact 525 size format with 94 links.
Main features
- RQ1 road series chain engineered for high performance motorcycles over 150 hp.
- 525 size X-ring sealed chain for reduced friction and excellent wear resistance.
- 94-link length suitable for applications requiring a compact 525 drive chain.
- Gold-coloured outer plates for corrosion resistance and a premium appearance.
- Pre-stretched during production to minimise initial elongation after installation.
- High average tensile strength of approximately 45.1 kN for demanding loads.
- Supplied with a rivet-type master link for secure, permanent connection.
Technical specifications
| Manufacturer | Tsubaki |
| Series | RQ1 high performance road chain (over 150 hp) |
| Product type | Motorcycle drive chain (sealed X-ring) |
| Size designation | 525 |
| Pitch | 15.875 mm (5/8 inch) |
| Inner width | Approx. 7.95 mm (5/16 inch) between inner plates (standard 525 geometry) |
| Number of links | 94 |
| Seal type | Low-friction X-ring sealing for lubricant retention and dirt protection |
| Average tensile strength | Approx. 45.1 kN |
| Recommended engine power | For motorcycles with more than 150 hp |
| Application | High performance road use (superbike, sport, sport-touring and powerful naked motorcycles) |
| Outer plate finish | Gold-coloured plating for improved corrosion resistance and appearance |
| Master link | Rivet-type connecting link included |
| SKU / Part number | 55212525094 |
Design and performance highlights
The 525 RQ1 chain is developed as part of Tsubaki's road series for maximum performance and reliability under the high loads generated by modern high horsepower engines.
- High load capacity: The robust construction and high tensile strength provide a strong safety margin under hard acceleration and continuous high-speed use.
- Low friction X-rings: Specially profiled sealing rings reduce drag compared with conventional O-rings while maintaining effective lubrication, helping more engine power reach the rear wheel.
- Pre-stretched manufacturing: Factory pre-stretch minimises the initial settling-in phase, reducing the amount of early chain adjustment required.
- Gold-coloured outer plates: The plated finish helps resist corrosion from road grime and weather exposure while giving the drive line a clean, high-end look.
Typical use cases
This 94-link 525 RQ1 chain is suitable wherever a high quality 525 size, X-ring sealed road chain of this length is specified.
- Replacement drive chain for high performance road motorcycles originally equipped with 525 chain and requiring 94 links.
- Upgrade from a standard or entry-level sealed chain to a stronger, lower-friction RQ1 series chain on compatible 525 applications.
- Use on powerful superbikes, sports, sport-touring and naked models where durability and consistent performance are priorities.
- Applications where a compact 94-link length is needed due to swingarm length, gearing choice or chassis design.
Maintenance notes
Like all sealed motorcycle chains, the 525 RQ1 benefits from regular cleaning and lubrication with an X-ring compatible chain lubricant to maximise service life and maintain smooth, efficient power transmission.
