So I just got a sprocket in the mail that doesn't fit. It was listed for a vtr1000 but didn't fit. I am noticing that ebay listings say 98-03 on some & 04 05 on some.
Did the rear wheel change in those years cuz that would be weird and surprising.

 

Sure it wasn't for a RC51 / VTR1000 SP1/SP2 ('00–'06) instead of VTR1000F ('97–'05).

 

Yeah but the pain was that the old chain was cut, wheel off & THEN I found it didn't fit. Thankfully I still had some 530 sprockets from my old F3 that are compatible til the replacements come. Amazon has a great return policy.

 

Next time simply remove the rider's footpeg hanger and the old chain can be slipped off and the new pre riveted chain slipped on. Just remember to retorque back up to spec the swingarm pivot nut.

 

No never changed..same sprocket type and size all years
I see stuff mis marked commonly... VTR1000 when it should be VTR1000F

 

Happened to me once too, some people list their RC51 stuff as VTR, which the RC was also badged as at some point. But yeah. the Superhawk and RC51 have different bolt patterns. The wheel fits though.

AV