What does changing motorcycle sprocket do?

The purpose of changing sprocket sizes is to alter the relationship between engine speed on your tachometer and road speed on your speedometer. Let’s say your motorcycle comes with an 18-tooth sprocket in the front and a 43-tooth sprocket on the rear wheel. Once you have a new ratio in mind, take a look at your bike.

Does changing sprocket affect mileage?

Premium Member. Speed is read off of a rotor that bolts up on the countershaft (the shaft where you bolt the sprocket). Changing the size of the sprockets doesn’t affect how fast the countershaft spins, but it affects how fast the sprockets spin the rear wheel. Mileage is calculated from the speed sensor.

What happens when you change sprocket size?

Installing a larger countershaft sprocket creates higher gearing, while a larger rear sprocket lowers gearing. Similarly, a smaller front sprocket lowers the gearing while a smaller rear sprocket makes gearing higher.

How does changing sprocket size affect speed?

Substituting a larger front or smaller rear sprocket lowers the ratio (sometimes called “taller” gearing), resulting in more speed for a given engine rpm. Likewise, a smaller front or larger rear sprocket gives less speed for a given rpm (“shorter” gearing).

What is the life of chain sprocket?

A common rule is to replace both front and rear sprockets every time you replace your chain. This is a good rule to follow if your chain has lasted for its full life of, say, 15,000 miles. But, sometimes a sprocket replacement can wait in cases where you’re replacing a prematurely worn chain.

How do I know if my sprocket is bad?

Look closely at the sprocket teeth to see if they have become sharp at the tips and/or slightly curled. The teeth on a new sprocket are straight and have a flat or domed shape at the tip. If the teeth are sharp, the sprocket is worn.

Is a sprocket with more teeth faster?

Does more teeth on a sprocket mean more speed?

You can gear up by using a smaller rear sprocket or a larger countershaft/front sprocket. Gearing up adds more speed and decreases the final drive ratio. You can gear down by using a larger rear sprocket or a smaller front sprocket. Gearing down reduces speed and increases the final drive ratio.