The facts.
| Chain pitch | 520 |
|---|---|
| Number of links | 116 - 120 (depending on selection) |
| Weight (kg/100 links) | 1,69 kg |
| Relative service life (per 100 links) | 3500 |
| Seal type | QX2-Ring |
| Intended use | Road |
| Colour | Black/Gold |
| Chain link closure | Rivet link |
| EK chain type | Z/3D |
| Manufacturer | EK Chain |
DescriptionThe whole story▼
For riders who want dependable, low-maintenance drivetrain performance every single day, the EK 520 Z/3D QX2-Ring chain in Black/Gold delivers a compelling combination of long service life, robust construction, and a striking two-tone finish — all at a price point that makes it one of the most practical upgrades available for road and supersport machines.
Key Features
- QX2-Ring seal technology reduces internal friction, retains lubrication longer, and significantly cuts maintenance intervals compared with conventional O-ring chains
- Relative service life rating of 3500 per 100 links — a genuine measure of how far this chain goes between replacements
- 41.6 kN (9,352 lbs) tensile strength handles the demands of high-output road and supersport engines with ease
- ThreeD Z-series (Z/3D) construction provides a stable, fatigue-resistant link geometry that maintains consistency under sustained load
- Supplied open with a rivet link for a permanent, high-integrity connection — the preferred fitting method for performance road use
- Black/Gold two-tone finish adds visual character while the surface treatment offers meaningful corrosion resistance for year-round riding
QX2-Ring Technology — More Miles, Less Effort
The QX2-Ring seal sits between the inner and outer plates of each link, keeping factory grease locked inside the pin-bush interface and road contamination locked out. Compared with older X-ring or O-ring designs, the QX2 profile generates less friction against the side plates, which translates into a small but real gain in drivetrain efficiency and a noticeably extended service interval. For riders who commute, tour, or simply prefer spending time riding rather than cleaning a chain, this technology makes a practical difference week to week.
Z/3D Construction — Built for Sustained Road Use
EK's ThreeD Z-series manufacturing process produces link plates with a controlled thickness profile that distributes load more evenly across each joint. The result is a chain that resists the micro-fatigue that eventually causes conventional chains to stretch prematurely. At a weight of 1.69 kg per 100 links, the 520 Z/3D is proportioned for real-world road use — light enough to suit middleweight and litrebike sportsters, strong enough to handle sustained highway and spirited back-road riding without complaint.
Black/Gold Finish — Function and Style Combined
The contrast between the black inner plates and gold outer plates is a deliberate aesthetic choice that suits the visual language of modern supersport machines. Beyond its appearance, the surface finish adds a layer of corrosion resistance that keeps the chain looking presentable through changing weather — genuinely useful for anyone who doesn't store their bike for winter. The coating is durable enough for everyday use and holds up well to regular chain cleaning and lubrication routines.
Rivet Link Closure — Proper Fitment for Performance Machines
This chain is supplied open with a rivet link rather than a clip link. A riveted connection is mechanically superior for high-load applications because it cannot be accidentally dislodged and distributes stress across the full pin diameter. It does require a chain riveting tool to fit correctly, and Inter-Pace recommends professional installation or use of the appropriate EK riveting tool if fitting at home.
Fitment and Compatibility
The EK 520 Z/3D QX2-Ring chain is a 520-pitch chain available in 116, 118, and 120 link lengths to suit a wide range of sprocket configurations and swingarm setups. It is suitable for the following makes and representative models (always verify your exact sprocket tooth count and chain line before ordering):
- Aprilia: RSV4, RSV4 R, RSV4 RR, RSV4 RF, RSV4 1100, RSV4 1100 Factory, RS 660, RS 457, V4, V4 R, V4 S
- BMW: S1000RR, M1000RR, HP4, HP4R
- Bimota: KB998 Rimini
- CFMOTO, QJMotor: SKR 800 RR, V2 890, V2 S 890, V2 955
- Ducati: 848, 899, 959, 1199, 1199 S, 1199 R, 1299, 1299 S
- Honda: CBR 600 RR, CBR 1000 RR, CBR 1000 RR-R
- Kawasaki: ZX-4 RR, ZX-6R, ZX-10 R, ZX-10 RR, Ninja 400
- KTM: RC 390, RC8 1190, 990 RC R
- MV Agusta: F3, F4, 675 SR-R, 450 SR
- Suzuki: GSX-R 600, GSX-R 750, GSX-R 1000
- Triumph: Daytona 675, Daytona 675 R, Daytona 765, Daytona 765 Moto 2, Street Triple 765 R, Street Triple 765 RS
- Yamaha: R3, R6, R7, R9, R1, R1M
Specifications
- Chain pitch: 520
- Link count: 116, 118, or 120 (choice of variant)
- Seal type: QX2-Ring
- Chain type: Z/3D (ThreeD Z-series)
- Tensile strength: 41.6 kN / 9,352 lbs
- Weight: 1.69 kg per 100 links
- Relative service life: 3500 per 100 links
- Colour: Black/Gold
- Closure: Rivet link (open chain)
- Intended use: Road
- Manufacturer: EK Chain
What's includedEverything in the box▼
- 1x Chain
FitmentWhich bikes this fits▼
Universal product — Please check whether it fits your bike.
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