Transalp 650 v3 Chain
 

I just bought a new chain and sprockets and got the dealer to join the chain for me...problem is - the original chain has 118 links, the Haynes manual says 118 links - but the new chain is 120 links. doh

When I called them back to ask about getting it shortened they told me the Honda EPC Data says it should be 120 links and that it is the right size for the model (which he quoted)...

Could anyone let me know if the chain should be 118 or 120 links...and sorry if this is a silly question - but does it matter and should I just stick the new chain on even though it has two extra links...

...the sprockets are the same as the original...

Any help would be appreciated...and thanks in advance...

It seems 118 is correct for XL650V according this specs:

Honda XL650V Technical Specifications

If sprockets have the same number of tooth as factory sprockets then don't fit longer chain as you run out of tightening room (you new chain acts like old loose "stretched" chain which can't be tightened any more). Let the dealer remove 2 links.

Yes, it is interesting that the same Honda electronic parts data also tells about my XL600V-T that chain is 120 links but actually is 118. Perhaps for some regions/years it was 120 links and they supply universal length than can be shortened by 2 links.