DID 520ERT3-118 Gold 118 Link High Performance Racing Chain

In this review the DID 520ERT3-118 Gold racing chain is examined for riders who need a high-performance non-O-ring drive chain for aggressive track or off-road use. The single biggest reason to consider this chain is its improved shock resistance and tensile strength over the prior generation while retaining similar weight, which matters for racers chasing reliability without added rotational mass. The review highlights construction details and real customer impressions so you can decide if this 118-link set fits your application.

Key Features

• Enhanced anti-shock performance: The chain delivers approximately 25% greater anti-shock resistance versus the previous generation, helping reduce failures under sudden loads.
• Higher tensile strength: With about a 5% increase in tensile strength, the chain withstands heavier pulling forces typical of racing and high-power applications.
• SDH pin treatment: Pins receive a hard chromium carbide surface with a softer core to absorb impact without sacrificing fatigue resistance.
• Cold-formed solid bushing technology: Bushings are formed for high wear resistance and a smooth, round surface that improves wear life and rolling consistency.
• Included connecting link: The set ships with a clip-style RJ master link for field installation.
• Lightweight for performance: Tensile and shock improvements are achieved without increasing the overall weight of the chain, preserving handling and acceleration.

Who It's For

The DID 520ERT3-118 is best suited for serious motocross and racing riders or any enthusiast running high-revving, high-torque engines who want a durable, performance-oriented non-O-ring chain. Racers who prioritize reduced rotational mass and improved shock tolerance will appreciate the SDH pin treatment and cold-formed bushings.

Casual street riders or those who prefer low-maintenance O-ring chains for everyday commuting may want to look elsewhere, since this is a non-O-ring racing chain intended for frequent inspection and lubrication and for users who accept that tradeoff for performance gains.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Significantly improved anti-shock performance compared with the prior model, reducing risk of sudden failures.
• Higher tensile strength provides added security for high-power applications.
• SDH pin treatment and cold-formed bushings give a durable wear surface and smooth rolling action.
• Includes a clip-style connecting link for installation.

Cons

• Some customers report mixed durability in very harsh conditions, with isolated reports of short service life.
• Several buyers noted the master link was missing on arrival in some cases, requiring replacement purchase.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The DID 520ERT3-118 Gold chain is a strong choice for racers and performance riders who need improved shock tolerance and slightly higher tensile strength without added weight. It offers advanced pin treatment and solid bushing construction that extend wear life, though potential buyers should confirm the master link is included and be mindful that non-O-ring chains require regular maintenance. For its target use it represents good value for performance-focused applications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the master link included?
The product description states a clip-style RJ master link is included, but several customers have reported receiving sets without the link, so check contents on delivery.

Is this an O-ring chain?
No, the 520ERT3-118 is a non-O-ring racing chain designed for lower friction and lighter weight, which requires more frequent lubrication.

How does the SDH pin treatment help?
The SDH treatment hardens the pin surface with a chromium carbide layer while keeping the core softer to absorb impact, improving shock resistance and fatigue life.