BMW Introduces “Maintenance-Free” M Endurance Chain

[Grumpy Goat]

See this article on Motorcycle.com.

What I want to know is why can't it be available on any [BMW] motorcycle that uses a 525 pitch chain? This is what the last paragraph of the Press Release says:

"The M Endurance chain in 525 pitch is now available initially for the two 4-cylinder models BMW S 1000 RR and S 1000 XR. The M Endurance chain is available as accessory or directly from the factory as an option. Further BMW Motorrad models are being prepared for this feature."

My S1000R uses a 525 pitch chain, so what is the difference if the sprockets see the same 525 pitch chain?

[darrell]

My S1000R uses a 525 pitch chain, so what is the difference if the sprockets see the same 525 pitch chain?

i’m guessing here but it could be the sprockets also need some sort of coating to work properly with the chains coating. Will be interesting to see if the expected life of the chain and sprockets is different than current chains.

[Grumpy Goat]

i’m guessing here but it could be the sprockets also need some sort of coating to work properly with the chains coating. Will be interesting to see if the expected life of the chain and sprockets is different than current chains.

That’s actually a good guess. Never thought of that. These bikes have different sprockets so if special sprockets have to be matched with this chain, then I’d have to wait until they are available as a set. Otherwise to buy the chain and install on regular sprockets would probably reduce the chain to normal, as the coating wears off.

I applaud BMW for this innovation though. If it works it could revolutionize motorcycle design and threaten shaft drive as a propulsion option.


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[darrell]

[quote='darrell' pid='3903' dateline='1598617314']
Otherwise to buy the chain and install on regular sprockets would probably reduce the chain to normal, as the coating wears off.

Or the coating on the chain is harder so it would wear out your sprockets much faster then normal.

[Grumpy Goat]

Or the coating on the chain is harder so it would wear out your sprockets much faster then normal.

That too. Either way it suggests that you may not prudently mix and match. I like this assumption for an explanation.


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[MrVvrroomm]

Let's see how maintenance free it is in 36K miles or 36 months, BMW Motorrad Warranty

[Grumpy Goat]

Let's see how maintenance free it is in 36K miles or 36 months, BMW Motorrad Warranty

Heheh ... good point. If it can last 3 years maintenance free with replacement of all sprockets and chain, may be not a bad thing. And if it is a success more manufacturers will offer them and price should drop.


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[Ray]

Let's see how maintenance free it is in 36K miles or 36 months, BMW Motorrad Warranty

Right. Let's see how maintenance free it is after you and Dawn grind it down on a hot, dry, gritty day.

I'd also like to see what the weight looks like.

Disclaimer - this is not a political view - but sounds like BMW hired President Trump and friends to write the marketing material.