Actually, I just realized the chain I got had 114 links, whereas the Classic needs 112 links. I guess I shouldn't trust ebay when it says it's good for my bike. I wonder, can 2 links be removed from there?

 

Yes, you can get a link removal tool. It pushes the pin out and back in. Not sure of cost though, so check prices, may be cheaper to buy a new chain.

Also, make sure you look at motorcycle chain tools, not bicycle tools.

 

Would it be possible to use a punch and hammer to tap out two links and use a master link to reconnect the ends? You would obviously need to be careful that you don't damage the chain, but if the cost of the tool is the same or more than a replacement chain I'd say give it a go the caveman way.

 

Possible? Yes. Recommended? No. The tool is designed specifically for this purpose and I don't know about you but I don't want to be going 70mph+ down the road worrying about the pin wiggling loose and the chain flying through the air. What if the punch slips when you hammer and it bends the sides of the chain? Or you screw up the o-rings?

 

Before breaking the chain, You can use a simple angle grinder to cut off a pin head. Is it recommended? Yes! Because most of cheap chain breaking tools (under 100$) are too weak to depress the pins. They will be good only for joining chains.

 

That is basically the exact method I was thinking, though I never even thought about using an angle grinder.

Again, if the cost of a replacement chain is less than the cost of the chain breaker then I say either just order the correct replacement chain, or try this method to remove a couple of links and use a master link. As long as you take your time so you don't damage any of the other links, it should be perfectly safe.

 

Most bike shops can do that for you. Why did you go to a 38 tooth sprocket.

 

17/38 is an almost identical sprocket ratio to 18/40, so I assume that's the logic. Also, based on the Russian Wolf website, a 17/38 sprocket combo requires a 112 link chain.

 

By the way, smaller diameter sprockets make chain wear off faster.

 

17/42 is what my bike came with runs great, good pull off the line and it starts leveling out at around 70 mph. Never took her over 100 but 800's are cruisers, have run 90 to 95 most of the day out west before. Used to have an open speed limit in Montana. My most comfortable cruising speed anymore is around 70 to 80 mph, getting older.