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X Ring vs. O Ring Motorcycle Chains. What's the Difference? Which is better?

Updated: Feb 20, 2023






When it comes to choosing the right chain for your motorcycle, you may have come across the terms "X-Ring" and "O-Ring" and wondered what the difference is. Both types of chains are designed to improve durability and longevity, but they go about it in different ways. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at X-Ring and O-Ring chains, and help you decide which one is best for your bike.


  • An X-ring chain, also known as a 'Double-X Ring' or 'Quad Ring' chain, uses two X-shaped rings that sit between the inner and outer plates to seal the links together. These rings are made of a special rubber compound that is designed to resist wear and tear, as well as keep dirt and debris away. The benefit of the X-Ring type is that it is less likely to stretch and wear out as quickly as an O-Ring chain, making it a great choice for riders who want a longer-lasting option.


  • On the other hand, an O-Ring chain is a type of sealed chain that uses O-shaped rings to seal the links together. These rings are also made of a special rubber compound that is designed to resist wear and tear, but they are not as effective at keeping dirt and debris out of the chain as X-Rings. The benefit of this type of chain is that it is more flexible and less likely to break, making it a great choice for riders who want a chain that is more forgiving and easier to maintain.


  • The X-shaped cross-section helps to distribute the load more evenly across the chain, reducing stress on any one point. This means that X-Ring chains are often considered to be more precise and accurate than traditional chains, which can be beneficial for high-performance bikes.


  • An X-Ring's four contact points compared to the O-Ring's three, which greatly increases lubricant sealing performance.


  • X-Rings retain the lubricant grease for longer duration which results in longer chain life. X-Ring chains are generally considered to be more durable than O-Ring chains, as they have a slightly tighter seal that helps to keep dirt and debris out of the chain.


  • X-Ring chains are less likely to wear out or break down over time, making them a good choice for riders who put a lot of miles on their bikes. O-Ring chains are still durable, but they may not last as long as X-Ring chains in certain conditions.


  • X-Ring chains tend to be more expensive than O-Ring chains. This is because X-Ring chains are generally considered to be a higher-quality product, with more advanced technology and better durability. O-Ring chains, on the other hand, are more affordable, and may be a better option for riders on a budget.



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- Ride Safe- Team Sniper Automotive.




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