do i need this chain guard thing?

[Rimmy]

Hello once again,

I'm polishing up the rear wheel on my '73 CB350. My rear sprocket chain retainer thing is a little chewed up and I'd like to just get rid of it. I'd much prefer the look of the exposed rear sprocket anyhow. Is it a necessary piece though?
It's number three in this bikebandit schematic if you're unsure what I'm talking about.
http://www.bikebandit.com/houseofmotorcycles/1973-honda-motorcycle-cb350g/o/m9221#sch398949

Thanks,
-jordan

 

[Tim]

Ditch it.

 

[rockcitycafe]

it's only necessary if your chain breaks

 

[Rimmy]

thanks for the quick answers!

-jordan

 

[Bakeoff]

it's only necessary if your chain breaks

Can you explain that one to me...

 

[Tim]

I think Sean (Roc City) was thinking about what most of us know offhand as the chain guard, not the trim ring on the sprocket that Rimmy was referring to in his diagram.

 

[rockcitycafe]

oh my bad... that thing keeps your shoelaces out of the sprocket though