Chain types. EK, BK?

[jawad]

1. Do folks have a preference for Chain brands/types, or is a 530/114 a 530/114?

I need to put on a new chain.  Local bike stores have Bike Master (about $94) an RK ($110), and Tsubaki for about $175.  The first two are slightly cheaper online.  In this thread I see Mustang putting on an EK.
http://tigertriple.com/forum/index.php/topic,5024

2. Do I really need to change sprokets even if they look fine?

My chain looks rusty and is fully stretched.  I recently had a bike shop put a new tube in my rear tire, and the mechanics said that my rear sprokets looked fine.  I have not seen the front yet.

Thanks

[Mustang]

1. Do folks have a preference for Chain brands/types, or is a 530/114 a 530/114?

Most modern O ring chains seem to last about the same , I like the EK's better , must be the gold side plates

2. Do I really need to change sprokets even if they look fine?

funny thing about sprockets they look fine until you compare one to a brand new one side by side , then you can really see where they wear !

My chain looks rusty and is fully stretched.  I recently had a bike shop put a new tube in my rear tire, and the mechanics said that my rear sprokets looked fine.  I have not seen the front yet.

rusted and fully stretched means the sprockets are knackered , the front will definitely be hooked and shot . New front sprocket from Sprocket Specialist's is under 30 bucks and a new steel rear JT sprocket from dennis Kirk is under 60 bucks , your new chain will thank you .

[jawad]

Thank you Mustang,
I guess a sprocket is a sprocket given the number of teeth?  I think I will try to buy local.

I may be looking at about $100+ in tools that I will rarely use again.
Chain breaker and riveter combo ($80-90) and a 33mm socket (about $20)
Some of these things are cheaper on eBay.