thanks for the feed-back Rogue.... I'll have to order it up so i can hit the streets

Just start at the master link and count the sideplates. You'll find different lengths online ranging from 100-120 usually. 520, 525, 530 are the most common dimensions- meaning the roller and side plate measurements, not length. Most modern 600s come with 525, 1000s with 530, and 650s with 520. The length depends on sprocket and swingarm combination.

Chain comes in 120 links,you cut it when you get it,just line it up next to the old one.

More accurate to count the links.
If you just measure side by side, you could cut it too long as the old one is streached.

STFU belt boy! Ummmm... are you being serious? A complete "link" of a 5 series chain is about 1" plus the inner ...no one is that stupid. Besides,even if that were possible,you can always cut it again doofus! I just did one this weekend,laid it next to it and cut,no biggie! A chain only stretches about an inch or less total.

A typical bike chain, changed when needed, no.

I have seen chains streach over 2 links in length *note, not a motorcycle chain* BUT I have had an ATV chain that streached over a full link. And for someone that doesn't know any better, it could be a problem. And I know you can recut it, but that is more time and effort. It takes all of 30 seconds to count the links, and then you know its right.

Measure twice... cut once...

Ahh I'm just fucking with you. I have honestly NEVER counted a chain. BTW I know you know this but,because of where you cut it,it actually eliminates the length of two links,impossible to screw up IMHO.