My "new" 98 VTR has 9500 miles on 'er, the chain looks serviceable, but I'd rather not chance it.

Whats the better choice for a 520 gold chain and sprocket combo? What is everyone using these days? I think I'll just go up 2 teeth in the back. Thanks!

 

Actually +2 on the back is perfect, almost a must do on all Hondas.

 

really depends on how you ride. if you ride like a sane man, then stay with stock gearing and change to 520 sprockets and chain when you want/need to upgrade. The benefits of lighter spinning weight are worth it. If you like to wheelie and/or experience the thrill of acceleration, if you like to rip out of corners, you need to go 1 down and 2 up/520 conversion.
if you are worried about your chain, pull out on chain at rear of rear sprocket and it shouldn't pull away from sprocket; look carefully at the teeth on your rear sprocket for wear signs. replace together for best results.

Before you change, know that you need to have a rivet tool to compress and secure the rivets.

 

I work at a motorcycle shop, so the tools are here, prolly have one of the techs help me in exchange for lunch, :-)

I just ordered a Regina kit with stock gearing, prolly just change out the front sprock for one down a toof..