EK Chain 520 ZVX3 NX-Ring Chain Steel/Steel – Open with Rivet Link, 94 to 146 Links

When you cover serious miles on a high-performance machine, the last thing you want to think about is your chain. The EK 520 ZVX3 in Steel/Steel is engineered precisely for that peace of mind — a road and track-capable drivetrain chain that combines all-day smoothness with a relative service life rating of 3900 per 100 links, so long commutes and spirited weekend rides feel equally effortless.

Key Features

• NX-Ring seal technology minimises internal friction and retains lubrication, dramatically extending service intervals and reducing wear
• Tensile strength of 41.8 kN (9,400 lbs) delivers confident power transfer under hard acceleration on everything from supersport nakeds to litre-class track tools
• ZVX3 construction is engineered for high-load rigidity, resulting in even power delivery and a notably quiet, vibration-free running character
• Classic Steel/Steel finish provides understated, corrosion-resistant durability without the maintenance demands of coloured or gold chains
• Supplied open with a rivet link for a permanent, load-rated connection that suits powerful motorcycles
• Available in 27 link lengths from 94 to 146 links, covering the fitment needs of an exceptionally wide range of 520-pitch applications

NX-Ring Technology Explained

EK's NX-Ring seal sits between the inner and outer plates, forming a precise barrier that keeps factory-applied grease inside the pin-bushing interface throughout the chain's life. Unlike conventional O-rings, the NX-Ring profile is shaped to minimise contact area against the side plates, which translates directly into lower friction losses and less heat build-up during sustained high-speed running. The result is a relative service life index of 3900 — noticeably higher than standard sealed chains in the same pitch class — meaning fewer replacements and lower long-term running costs for high-mileage riders.

ZVX3 Construction and Road Performance

The ZVX3 series sits at the performance end of EK's road and sport catalogue. The chain's geometry and plate thickness are tuned for rigidity under the peak torque loads produced by modern inline-fours and V-twins in the 520-pitch power bracket. Rigid side plates resist lateral flex, which keeps the chain tracking cleanly over sprocket teeth at high cadence and prevents the subtle power losses that worn or flexy chains introduce. On the road this means a smoother throttle response, quieter running and consistent gearing feel lap after lap or mile after mile.

Steel/Steel Finish — Function Over Flash

The Steel/Steel specification means both inner and outer plates retain their natural silver-toned steel finish. For riders who prioritise longevity and ease of maintenance over visual contrast, this finish is the practical choice: there is no surface treatment to chip or discolour, and regular chain-care products work directly on the steel without risk of stripping a coating. It is a classic, purposeful aesthetic that suits everything from a track-day Yamaha R6 to a daily-ridden Kawasaki ZX-10R.

Rivet Link Connection

The chain is supplied in open form with a rivet link rather than a clip-type master link. A riveted connection matches the full tensile strength of the chain itself — 41.8 kN — making it the preferred choice for high-power applications where clip links are not recommended. Installation requires a quality chain-riveting tool, and once fitted the joint is permanent and fully load-rated.

Fitment and Compatibility

The EK 520 ZVX3 Steel/Steel chain is compatible with all motorcycles running standard 520-pitch sprocket combinations. The 94-to-146 link range covers the vast majority of sport, supersport and naked fitments. Typical applications include:

• Aprilia RSV4, RSV4 R, RSV4 RR, RSV4 RF, RSV4 1100, RSV4 1100 Factory, RS 660, RS 457
• BMW S1000RR, M1000RR, HP4, HP4R
• Bimota KB998 Rimini
• CFMoto, QJMotor, SKR 800 RR
• Ducati 848, 899, 959, 1199, 1199 S, 1199 R, 1299, 1299 S
• Honda CBR 600 RR, CBR 1000 RR, CBR 1000 RR-R
• KTM RC 390, RC8 1190, 990 RC R
• Kawasaki Ninja 400, ZX-4 RR, ZX-6R, ZX-10 R, ZX-10 RR
• MV Agusta F3, F4
• 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 R1, R1M, R3, R6, R7, R9
• Model years 2003–2026 (verify exact link count for your fitment)

Specifications

• Chain pitch: 520
• Available link counts: 94 to 146 (select at order)
• Weight: 1.8 kg per 100 links
• Relative service life (per 100 links): 3900
• Seal type: NX-Ring
• Application: road and track
• Colour/finish: Steel/Steel
• Connection: rivet link (open chain)
• Chain type: ZVX3
• Manufacturer: EK Chain