Tsubaki Road Chain 530 RQ1 – 106-Link High-Performance X-Ring Drive Chain
The Tsubaki Road Chain 530 RQ1 with 106 links is a premium X-ring drive chain developed for high-performance road motorcycles using a 530 final part of Tsubaki's RQ1 series, it is designed for machines with more than 150 horsepower, combining very high tensile strength, reduced friction and long service life in demanding street use.
Main Highlights
- High-performance 530 pitch X-ring drive chain for road motorcycles
- RQ1 series specification for powerful machines over 150 hp
- 106-link length for common 530 road applications
- Gold-coloured outer plates for a premium, clean look
- X-ring sealing for low friction and long-lasting lubrication retention
- High tensile strength (around 45.1 kN) for strong power transmission
- Supplied with rivet-type master link for secure installation
Construction and Technology
The 530 RQ1 series combines robust materials with advanced sealing X-ring profile reduces contact area and deformation compared to a conventional O-ring, which lowers running resistance while keeping factory-applied lubricant where it is most needed – between pin and bushing.
- X-ring sealing: Cross-section shaped sealing ring that reduces drag compared to standard O-rings, while maintaining excellent sealing performance.
- Gold outer plates: Corrosion-resistant plating on the external link plates for durable appearance and protection.
- Pre-stretched chain: Factory pre-stretching helps minimize initial elongation after installation.
- Quad-staked rivets (series feature): Rivet heads are formed on four sides to increase resistance to shear loads.
- Through-hardened components: Pins, bushings and rollers are heat treated to balance wear resistance with toughness.
Typical Use Cases
The Tsubaki 530 RQ1 106-link chain is intended for high-output road motorcycles where reliability and durability are critical:
- Large-displacement sport and hypersport motorcycles using a 530 chain
- Sport-touring and naked bikes with high torque and frequent long-distance use
- Powerful cruisers and customs converted to 530 sealed chains
- Upgrades from standard roller or basic O-ring chains to a stronger X-ring design
Performance Characteristics
The RQ1 series is engineered specifically for motorcycles with more than 150 hp and is commonly rated for up to around 200 combination of high tensile strength, controlled manufacturing tolerances and low-friction sealing technology provides stable power transmission and consistent chain behaviour under heavy load and at high speed.
- Suited to engines with very high power and torque outputs
- Reduced mechanical losses compared to traditional O-ring chains
- Extended service intervals thanks to improved sealing and wear characteristics
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Tsubaki |
| Series | RQ1 Road High Performance |
| Product type | Motorcycle drive chain (sealed X-ring) |
| Chain size | 530 pitch (5/8" x 3/8") |
| Number of links | 106 links |
| Seal type | X-ring low-friction sealing |
| Outer plate colour | Gold |
| Average tensile strength | Approx. 45.1 kN |
| Recommended engine output | For high-performance road motorcycles over 150 hp (commonly used up to around 200 hp) |
| Master link included | Rivet-type connecting link (pin/rivet style) |
| Primary application | High-performance road use, 530 final drive systems |
| Manufacturer reference / SKU | 55212530106 |
Installation Notes (General Information)
The 530 RQ1 106-link chain is supplied with a rivet-type master link intended for installation using appropriate chain riveting chain length and sprocket sizes must be matched to the specific motorcycle model and gearing requirements.
