After changing my chain & sprocket about a year ago, I've experienced a strange phenomenon - excessive chain stretch.
At first, I figured it was just the initial break-in but every time I'd check my chain it would be suspiciously loose.
I decided to simply replace the chain and sprocket and start fresh. While performing the install, though, I figured out the culprit! The sprocket body features a bushing that has the ability to slide in or out. If it happens to slide out while installing the wheel, it has the chance of becoming wedged in the wrong position. The wheel will tighten like normal, but the sprocket body will be sitting just barely outside its normal position (probably off-center as well). This means that the tight/loose spots are enormously exaggerated. Not only that, but the sprocket might slip back into place after you've set the chain tension, relieving the tight spot and creating a slack chain.
I was relieved to figure out this issue and easily avoided it upon reassembly.
Perhaps due to this issue, the chain stretched 1.5 links and the rear sprocket teeth were relatively worn, so I decided to swap them for arguably higher-quality components. The front sprocket seemed fine, but I think I'll replace it as well since I upgraded to a rubber-dampened sprocket.
I bought all three components from The Sprocket Center and would highly suggest them to anyone looking for these parts. The site is well organized and they list options available based on your bike. Even add-ons like a chain tool are listed before checkout to make sure you have everything you need to complete the job.
As a side note, I discovered these two sticks wedged behind the sprocket cover - proof that this Vstrom spends some time off the beaten path ;-)
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