8K on mine and it's starting to stretch a bit, but probably another 2 or 3K before I replace with a brand new RK XX-Ring I'll probably put on in the spring. Yes, these stocker chains aren't top quality. But $102 dollars and you can install a great chain that will go much farther than stock. (assuming you have access tot the equipment and skill to stake a rivet style chain).
I know it's a wear item, but if it's wearing prematurely due to rubbing on the bolt, that's not "normal" wear and tear.
Has anyone considered converting to a 525 chain/sprockets ? I know a 525 would be stronger. Would it be likely to get better life? I know I got 38000+ km out of a 530 chain on a 180hp streetbike.
I certainly haven't. The horsepower of a TR650 isn't anywhere near the limits of the chain as it is regularly used for bikes with double the horsepower...or more. Nor would it necessarily get any more life...that tends to be the quality of the chain, quality of the o-rings, and maintenance cycle of the owner. You would have a little more rotational mass--even if the conversion is possible. Seems to me to be like a lot of effort for the slimmest (if any) gain.
Mine was starting to kink at around 2800 miles. Haven't checked the bolt issue yet but it did get a SW Motech center stand at about 200 miles. Unless the new bolts from SWM also rub it shouldn't be an issue. I'll be out looking at that today. The bike did see around 1K of off-road riding over the first 2800 miles but it also got chain maintenance every other day when riding off-road. I'm in agreement that it's just a poor quality chain.
