Thought I'd jump in here as Ive just replaced my cam chain using a splitter/riveter like the one linked above.
It took me about 6 hours from taking the tank off to restarting the engine. The DID chain came pre split with a soft link rivet and the installation was painless. I did have help from my younger son, but only to help keep the new chain taut as it was fed down the front of the engine as I turned the engine over and pulled the old chain out the rear. It only took about 5 mins to actually do the rivetting.
I did consider a total engine split but decided against it purely cos of the amount of hassle involved.
I measured the new chain length prior to fitting and it turned out to be 3mm shorter than the old one. It may not sound a hell of a lot but the difference was instantly noticable as I started the bike. It purred rather than rattled and I counted the clicks on the CCT as it tightened the chain so I know theres a good few left.
I'd happily use a split chain again with a soft link
It took me about 6 hours from taking the tank off to restarting the engine. The DID chain came pre split with a soft link rivet and the installation was painless. I did have help from my younger son, but only to help keep the new chain taut as it was fed down the front of the engine as I turned the engine over and pulled the old chain out the rear. It only took about 5 mins to actually do the rivetting.
I did consider a total engine split but decided against it purely cos of the amount of hassle involved.
I measured the new chain length prior to fitting and it turned out to be 3mm shorter than the old one. It may not sound a hell of a lot but the difference was instantly noticable as I started the bike. It purred rather than rattled and I counted the clicks on the CCT as it tightened the chain so I know theres a good few left.
I'd happily use a split chain again with a soft link