Best Chain For Motocross: Compare 10 Racing Chains

#1 · Best Overall

1. RK GB520MXU-114

• Weight: 3.6 lb
• Load Capacity: 9000 lb

Best for: Narrow-Clearance Sealed MX.

Why it ranks #1: Built specifically for professional motocross racing, it uses UW-sealing rings and lists 9,000 pounds maximum tensile strength for a sealed 520 setup.

RK’s GB520MXU uses UW sealing rings and a narrow-clearance design, bringing sealed-ring construction to off-road and ATV setups where the chain’s profile matters. It is listed as a lightweight sealed-ring motocross chain, with a 114-link length and 9,000-pound maximum tensile strength stated for buyers assessing fit and specification.

The UW sealing rings and RK’s claim of increased chain life make this model relevant to riders weighing sealed-ring construction for motocross use. Its narrow-clearance description addresses a practical fit consideration, while the 520 series and 114 links give concrete dimensions to compare with a bike’s existing setup. RK says the components are heat treated using its HIT process and describes power delivery as consistent. The 9,000-pound maximum tensile rating adds a published strength specification for evaluation.

Skip it if you need more than 114 links for your setup; this model is specified as a 114-link chain.

The GB520MXU suits motocross and ATV riders seeking UW-sealed construction, narrow clearance, and a stated 9,000-pound tensile rating. Its 114-link length is a firm fit consideration, so match it to the bike before choosing.

Listed on Amazon as: RK Racing Chain GB520MXU-114 (520 Series) Gold 114 Link Extreme Performance Narrow Clearance Off-Road and ATV UW-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

#2 · Best Supercross Chain

2. RK GB520MXZ5-116

• Weight: 3.76 lb

Best for: Supercross Shock-Load Chain.

Why it ranks #2: Its stated supercross and motocross focus, chromoly construction, reinforced chromized pins, and heat-treated components suit demanding 520 race use.

RK’s GB520MXZ5 pairs chromoly-steel construction with reinforced Chromized pins, which RK says improve wear resistance and absorb shock loads from extreme jumps. The 520 chain is aimed at serious supercross and motocross racers, with 116 links giving a defined length for compatible race-bike setups.

Seamless rollers and bushings accompany the chromoly-steel construction, while RK’s HIT heat-treatment process is applied to all components. These named construction details help buyers evaluate the chain for the supercross and motocross use identified by RK. Reinforced Chromized pins are described as improving wear resistance by more than two times compared with normal non-sealed chains and as absorbing shock loads from extreme jumps. The 116-link length is a key compatibility check for a race-bike installation.

Skip it if you need more than 116 links for your setup; this RK chain is specified as a 116-link model.

Serious supercross and motocross racers seeking shock-load features and Chromized pins are the intended buyers for this RK chain. Its 116-link length is a concrete fit boundary, so compare it with the bike’s required chain length.

Listed on Amazon as: RK Racing Chain GB520MXZ5-116 Gold 116 Link Heavy Duty Racing Chain with Connecting Link

#3 · Best 520 MXZ5

3. Pro Taper PT520MXZ5-120

• Weight: 3.9 lb
• Load Capacity: 8800 lb

Best for: High-Rating 520 MX Chain.

Why it ranks #3: This 120-link gold 520 chain is designed for off-road use and increasing four-stroke horsepower demands, with a listed 8,800-pound load capacity.

Pro Taper’s PT520MXZ5-120 lists an 8,800-pound load capacity alongside a 520 format and 120 links, giving motocross riders several concrete specifications to compare with their setup. The gold Premium Gold Series chain is described for off-road use and for the increasing horsepower demands of modern four-stroke motorcycles.

The 520 chain type and 120-link length help riders assess compatibility with their motorcycle’s drive setup before installation. Pro Taper says the PT520 MX was designed for the increasing horsepower demands of today’s four-stroke motorcycles, while its exclusive heat-treating process applies to all chain components. The stated 8,800-pound load capacity offers another specification for comparison. Its listed application is off-road, so buyers should weigh that scope alongside their bike’s required chain format and riding use.

Skip it if you need more than 120 links; this Pro Taper chain is specified at 120 links.

This Pro Taper fits off-road riders, particularly four-stroke motocross owners, seeking a 520 chain with a stated 8,800-pound capacity. Confirm that its 120-link length matches the motorcycle’s sprockets and adjustment range.

Listed on Amazon as: Protaper PT520MXZ5-120 520 MX Chain – 120 Links

#4 · Best 420 Race Chain

4. RK GB420MXZ-112

• Load Capacity: 5E+3 lbf tensile
• Material: Alloy Steel

Best for: 420 MX/SX Racing Chain.

Why it ranks #4: It is explicitly intended for motocross and supercross racing, with alloy-steel construction and a connecting link for compatible 420 setups.

RK’s GB420MXZ-112 specifies a 420 series, gold finish, and 112 links, making the chain’s format and length clear for motocross and supercross setups that call for those dimensions. Its non-O-ring construction and connecting link suit riders choosing a conventional chain arrangement rather than a sealed-ring design.

The listed 420 series and 112-link length help narrow fit decisions before installation; they are not a substitute for matching the motorcycle’s required chain dimensions. RK lists motocross and supercross racing among the intended uses, as well as high-performance off-road and recreational riding. Alloy-steel construction and a stated tensile load capacity of 5,000 lbf provide concrete material and strength information for evaluating the chain. The non-O-ring design is a relevant consideration for buyers comparing chain types.

Skip it if you require a sealed-ring chain or a different series; this model is specifically a 420 non-O-ring chain.

This RK chain fits buyers whose motocross or supercross setup calls for a 420 non-O-ring chain and 112 links. Its stated uses also include off-road riding, but the exact chain series and length must suit the bike.

Listed on Amazon as: RK Racing Chain GB420MXZ-112 (420 Series) Gold 112 Link Heavy Duty MX/SX Racing Non O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

#5

5. Pro Taper 420MX

• Weight: 2.1 lb
• Load Capacity: 5E+3 lb
• Material: Alloy Steel

Best for: 420 Four-Stroke Off-Road.

Why it ranks #5: Its recommended use is off-road motocross with four-stroke engines, and its listed alloy-steel construction and 5,000-pound load capacity add useful detail.

Pro Taper identifies this Gold Series chain for off-road motocross use with four-stroke engines, giving riders a specific application to weigh against their bike and riding plans. Its 420 format and 134-link size offer a clearly stated length and series for setups that call for both.

The 420 designation and 134-link length help buyers assess whether this chain matches the motorcycle’s drive system and provides a suitable starting length. Pro Taper lists alloy steel as the material and a 5,000-pound load capacity, giving additional information for comparing chain specifications. Its stated recommended use is off-road motocross with four-stroke engines, so the application is focused rather than universal. The Gold Series finish is identified in the title, while the product information does not specify a connecting link.

Skip it if you ride a two-stroke or need a chain for street use; its stated application is four-stroke off-road motocross.

The Pro Taper 420 Gold Series suits a four-stroke off-road motocross rider whose setup calls for 134 links. Its stated engine and riding application is narrow, so riders should match that use and chain series to their bike.

Listed on Amazon as: Pro Taper 420MX Premuim Gold Series Chains – Lg. 134

#6 · Best Impact Features

6. Renthal 520 R1 Race Chain

• Weight: 0.27 g
• Load Capacity: 4721 lbs tensile
• Material: Metal

Best for: Impact-Resistant 520 Off-Road.

Why it ranks #6: Designed for off-road motorcycle use, it lists shot-peened side plates, chromised bearing pins, and features intended to resist impact loads and wear.

Renthal’s 520 R1 uses shot-peened alloy-steel side plates for high tensile strength and impact-load resistance, a relevant combination for off-road riding. The 120-link gold chain also has chromised bearing pins and chamfered inner links, giving buyers specific wear and derailment-related features to consider.

Shot-peened side plates are specified for strength and impact-load resistance, connecting the construction to the stresses Renthal identifies for off-road applications. Chamfered inner links are intended to reduce the chance of derailment, while extended bushings reduce friction between link plates to maximize power output. Chromised bearing pins are described as wear resistant, and gold side plates help prevent corrosion. Its 520 pitch and 120 links remain key compatibility details to check against the motorcycle.

Skip it if you need a chain with a higher listed tensile rating; Renthal specifies 4,721 lb for this model.

This Renthal suits off-road riders prioritizing impact resistance, reduced friction, and wear-related details in a 520 chain. Its 120-link length and 4,721-lb tensile rating are relevant boundaries to consider alongside the motorcycle’s required fit.

Listed on Amazon as: Renthal 520 R1 Race Chain (120 Links) (Gold)

#7

7. JT JTC420HDR122SL

• Weight: 3.2 oz
• Load Capacity: 4189 lbf
• Material: Alloy Steel

Best for: Long 420 Off-Road Chain.

Why it ranks #7: This 420 heavy-duty chain is engineered for off-road racing and lists a 4,189 lbf load capacity, though its use case also spans street and ATV riding.

JT’s JTC420HDR122SL provides 122 links in a 420 heavy-duty non-O-ring format, giving riders a longer specified chain option for compatible off-road setups. JT names street, motocross, enduro, and ATV use, while its alloy-steel construction and connecting link add concrete details for evaluating installation and application.

The 420 series and 122-link length let buyers check chain format and available length against the motorcycle’s sprockets and adjustment range. JT describes the HDR chain as engineered for off-road racing at minimum weight and made from special-grade steel alloys. Its listed uses extend to street riding, MX, enduro, and ATV applications. The connecting link supports joining the chain, while the stated tensile load capacity is 4,189 lbf. Non-O-ring construction remains an important choice in chain type.

Skip it if you require sealed-ring construction; this JT HDR model is a non-O-ring chain.

The JT HDR suits riders whose compatible setup calls for a 420 chain with 122 links, including the listed MX, enduro, and ATV uses. Its non-O-ring construction and stated tensile rating should inform the final choice.

Listed on Amazon as: JT Chain JTC420HDR122SL (420 Series) Black Steel 122 Link Heavy Duty Non O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

#8

8. DID 520DZ-120

• Weight: 3.8 lb

Best for: Gold Non-O-Ring MX Chain.

Why it ranks #8: It offers 120 links and a connecting link in a 520 non-O-ring format, but the supplied details do not specify a motocross-focused design.

DID’s 520DZ-120 pairs a 120-link length with a non-O-ring design, giving riders a gold-finish chain in the 520 format with a connecting link included. The straightforward configuration suits buyers who want a conventional drive-chain setup and can verify that 520 pitch and the supplied length match their motorcycle.

The 520 designation identifies the chain format, while the 120 links give a defined starting length for a motorcycle’s final-drive setup. Its non-O-ring construction keeps the design simple, and the included connecting link supports joining the chain during installation. DID identifies the model as part of its high-performance DZ2 Series. Buyers should still ensure their motorcycle calls for a 520 chain and determine whether the supplied link count works with its sprockets and adjustment range.

Skip it if you need a sealed-ring chain; this model is explicitly non-O-ring, so its construction does not match that preference.

For riders seeking a gold 520 non-O-ring chain with 120 links and a connecting link, the DID DZ2 is a clear-cut option. Its format and length are specific, so check those against the motorcycle’s chain and sprocket setup.

Listed on Amazon as: DID (520DZ-120) Gold 120 Link High Performance DZ2 Series Non-O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link

#9

9. HILAKE 520HV-120L

• Load Capacity: 1.2E+3 lbf
• Material: Alloy Steel

Best for: Versatile 520 O-Ring Chain.

Why it ranks #9: The 120-link 520 chain includes a master link and chain breaker, but its broad motorcycle, bicycle, go-kart, and mini-bike fit makes motocross less specific.

HILAKE combines a 520, 120-link O-ring chain with a chain breaker and connecting master link, giving buyers both the drive chain and named installation tools in the package. Its stated compatibility spans motorcycles, bicycles, go-karts, and mini trail bikes, making it useful beyond a single vehicle category.

The O-ring construction distinguishes this chain from non-O-ring options, while the 520 series and 120-link length provide key details for checking a motorcycle setup. A chain breaker is included for chain work, and the connecting master link supports joining the chain during installation. HILAKE also lists bicycles, go-karts, and mini trail bikes as intended uses. With a stated load capacity of 1,200 lbf, buyers can factor its published rating into their application choice.

Skip it if you need a chain with a higher stated load capacity; HILAKE lists this model at 1,200 lbf.

This HILAKE chain suits buyers who value an O-ring design and included chain breaker for installation or maintenance, across its listed vehicle types. Its 520 format, 120 links, and 1,200-lbf rating are important limits to match to the application.

Listed on Amazon as: 520 Motorcycle Chain 120 Links O-Ring with Connecting Master Link and Chain Breaker Heavy Duty Drive Chain for Motorcycle Bicycle Go Kart Mini Trail Bike

#10

10. RK M520HD-120

• Weight: 4.2 lb

Best for: Pre-Stretched 520 Chain.

Why it ranks #10: This standard non-O-ring 520 chain lists a 7,700-pound tensile figure but specifies a maximum of 400cc for street or non-Asian off-road use, limiting its motocross fit.

RK’s M520HD arrives pre-stressed and pre-stretched, a feature the listing says supports better performance with fewer adjustments. Its 520 format, 120 links, and standard non-O-ring construction make the chain’s basic configuration clear, while RK specifies a maximum engine size of 400cc for street or non-agricultural off-road use.

The pre-stressed and pre-stretched construction is intended to reduce the need for adjustments, a practical point for riders maintaining a standard chain. Two-point riveted pins and curled bushings are also specified, and the chain is made with Japanese steel to Japanese specifications. Its 520 series and 120-link length provide fit details, while the listed 400cc maximum and street/non-agricultural off-road application set a clear use boundary. The connecting link is specified as clip type.

Skip it if you ride a motorcycle above 400cc; RK lists 400cc as this chain’s maximum engine size.

This RK suits riders seeking a standard 520 non-O-ring chain with pre-stretching and fewer stated adjustment needs, for applications within its listed 400cc limit. Match its 120 links and clip-type connecting link to the motorcycle’s setup.

Listed on Amazon as: RK Racing Chain M520HD-120 (520 Series) 120-Links Standard Non O-Ring Chain with Connecting Link