Tsubaki 525 RQ2 Road Chain – 116-Link X-Ring Motorcycle Drive Chain
The Tsubaki 525 RQ2 road chain with 116 links belongs to the RQ2 series of sealed motorcycle drive chains, engineered for real-world road use with low-friction X-ring sealing and long service life.
This 525-pitch chain combines gold-coloured outer plates with precision-manufactured components to deliver efficient power transfer, reduced drivetrain losses and reliable durability on mid- to high-performance road motorcycles.
Key Features
- RQ2 road series design: Developed specifically for road motorcycles to provide a balance of long life, strength and low running resistance.
- Low-friction X-ring sealing: Specially profiled X-rings reduce friction between plates and rollers compared with conventional O-rings while maintaining effective internal lubrication.
- 116-link 525 pitch configuration: Standard 525 chain pitch with 116 links, suitable for many road motorcycle drivetrains using 525 sprockets when the overall gearing and wheelbase call for this length.
- Gold outer plates: Gold-coloured link plates provide a premium appearance and additional surface protection against the elements.
- Rated for up to 150 hp: Recommended for motorcycles with engine outputs up to approximately 150 horsepower, making it suitable for a wide range of middleweight and larger road bikes.
- Pre-stretched at the factory: Pre-stretching minimises initial elongation after installation, helping the chain hold its adjustment more consistently in early use.
- Hollow rivet master link included: Supplied with a hollow rivet connecting link for secure, permanent closure using industry-standard riveting tools.
- High tensile strength: Average tensile strength around 45.1 kN, supporting reliable performance under high load when correctly installed and maintained.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tsubaki |
| Series | RQ2 road chain |
| Chain type | Sealed X-ring motorcycle drive chain |
| Pitch | 525 |
| Number of links | 116 links |
| Recommended engine power | Up to approximately 150 hp |
| Seal type | Low-friction X-rings |
| Outer plate finish | Gold-coloured plates |
| Master link style | Hollow rivet (rivet-type connecting link) |
| Average tensile strength | Approx. 45.1 kN |
| Primary application | Road motorcycles using 525-pitch chain |
Typical Applications and Use
The Tsubaki 525 RQ2 116-link road chain is typically used on street, naked, sport and sport-touring motorcycles that require a 525-pitch sealed chain and fall within the recommended power range of the RQ2 combination of X-ring sealing, pre-stretched construction and high tensile strength makes it suitable for everyday commuting, touring use and dynamic road riding where consistent, low-maintenance performance is important.
The 116-link length is commonly selected when the original equipment specification or a particular sprocket combination calls for this chain size, allowing correct axle adjustment and chain slack when combined with suitable 525 front and rear sprockets.
