2017 to 2022 Kawasaki Versys X300 changing to a JT Sprocket 15T rubber cushion (part 1 of 2)

This video is Part 1 of 2 - The 2017 to 2022 Kawasaki Versys X300 changing of the front sprocket from the stock 14 tooth Rubber Cushion to a JT Sprocket 15 tooth Rubber Cushion. The JT Sprocket is an alternate sprocket that is different in the width of the sprocket at the center spline. This video is how to do this update and what is needed to take care of the width difference. The solution is to use two Kawasaki washer parts numbers to in essence fill the gap. The stock sprocket is 9.3mm wide and the alternate is 5.8mm wide. At length the JT Sprocket tech confirmed that this alternate will not be an issue with the narrower width. The two video will walk you through the process and provide the part numbers of everything needed. (the JT sprocket and the two Kawasaki washers). This is a pretty easy task to do it you have a the right tools. Ask any questions in the comments. The road test went great. There is an advantage with the 15 tooth sprocket to lower the RPM of the bike through out the gears. The new gear provides: 5500 rpm at 50 mph, 6700 rpm at 60 mph, 7700 rpm at 70 mph and 9000 rpm at 80 mph. About a 10% lowering in 6th gear.
Here is what you need to buy and where to buy the parts-
Sprocket sourced from (Dennis Kirk dot com) link: JT Sprockets Front Rubber Cushioned Sprocket - JTF565.15RB Motorcycle | www.denniskirk...
LINK: www.denniskirk...
YOU CAN ALSO buy this from Amazon with Free shipping for under $12 before tax.
LINK: www.amazon.com...
The two different genuine Kawasaki part number washers sourced from ( www.partzilla.com)
Quantity of THREE of the 92200-0851 Kawasaki washer, Kawasaki part number: 92200-0851 - WASHER |
LINK: www.partzilla....
Quantity of ONE of the 92200-1389 Kawasaki washer sourced from ( www.partzilla.com), Kawasaki part number: 92200-1389 - WASHER |
LINK: www.partzilla....
They're all inexpensive parts for this sprocket swap.

[@trekOCLVone]

The 2000 mile follow up - The 15-tooth rubber bumpered update is working great!

[@fjtj]

Me too changed sprocket, so i noted a vibration i low speed, is normal?

[@trekOCLVone]

@@fjtj No vibration is good vibration. With the J.T.Sprocket 15-tooth rubber bumpered sprocket there is no vibration, and it is quiet.

[@ropeysubstance1719]

now in 2024 does JT sprockets have a drop in product for the versys x 300?

[@trekOCLVone]

@@ropeysubstance1719 I went to the J T Sprockets website and reviewed their sprocket guide and their application guide for the JTF1539.14 / 15 / 14RB and there is still no JTF1539.15RB. Bummer. My X300 now has 7,600 miles on the alternate JTF565-15RB, and it is working and still looking like new.

[@trekOCLVone]

The 7,500 mile follow up. The 15-tooth rubber bumpered sprocket is working great. I just inspected the sprocket and chain, and everything looks like new and functions like new. The only thing needed was just wiping off the sprocket and case to remove some slight lube buildup.

[@nelsonfamily6791]

Hello Friend, I recently completed the sprocket swap per your guidance. I have to say that I am very happy with the increased top end in all the gears, especially 1st and 6th. Now I can use 1st gear like it was intended!!!! Cruising at 70-75 is now more enjoyable too!!! here's a quick tip for those who are looking to make the swap: Stabilizing the rear wheel has been a challenge for others. I used a simple strap (like the strap from a ratchet style strap) looped around the left side of the swing arm and through one of the "spokes" on the REAR SPROCKET. NOT THE WHEEL SPOKES! remove the far rear bolt on the chain guard to pull it slightly out of the way to loop the strap 3 or 4 times around and through the left side of swing arm inline with the rear sprocket. Then roll the back wheel (mine was up on the center stand) forward til the back wheel is locked. That worked out great for me. I used an impact to loosen the front sprocket nut. came off in a half second. THANKS AGAIN FOR SUCH A HELPFUL VIDEO!!!!!!!!!!!!! - JER

[@trekOCLVone]

JER - thank you for the kind words. With three part numbers (5 parts total) and maybe an hour you can change the bike enough to make it more calm and stay quiet with the rubber bumper. I made the video to help other in doing the swap and keeping it simple. Please see my other videos on several other updates and modifications. My favorite it the the Sound Bomb Air Horn. It is there because if I ever have to use it I want it to be heard. The more practical update is the T-Rex Heavy Duty Skid Plate install with a 5th brace and my modification to attach it to the genuine Kawasaki crash bars to really beef up everything. My next trick will be to use the skid plate to lift the bike up off the floor for maintenance and cleaning. I've rebuilding a motorcycle jack right now to do just that. Fun stuff. Let me know what you want to see and I put your ideas on the list.

[@trekOCLVone]

The 5200 mile follow up. The 15-tooth rubber bumpered update is working great! I just took off the plastic front sprocket cover again for inspection. The sprocket still looks new. Only needed to clean off the buildup of chain lube.

[@govinda102000]

Just did mine with your stack up. It seemed like a smidgen more with the outer lock washer barely interlocking with the spline teeth. But holding it down while spinning the nut worked fine. This modification is worth the trouble. Less vibration than using the 15 tooth sprocket w/o the rubber. It was easy to find that sweet spot to lock sprocket with control arms w/o touching the spokes. Thanks.***

[@trekOCLVone]

I'm glad the you were able to use this video for the "Quiet" 15 tooth sprocket upgrade. I've probably have 400 miles or more on this setup and it is quiet and the lower of the RPM is noticeable. I've have other videos up now for the T-Rex Heavy Duty Skid Plate (adding a 5th bracket) and the T-Rex Barkbuster hand guards and what you need to know for those two items. My video for a full LED light upgrade for the Versys X300 is now up on my channel. Next maybe some electronics. Glad I could help.

[@MotorbikesAndNonsense]

I did this on mine, too. Made all the difference in the world.

[@trekOCLVone]

I'm still liking the 15 tooth front with the rubber bumper. I don't know what a front sprocket without the rubber bumper sounds like. I'll never know what I've been missing.

[@dexter2433]

just bought a Versys 300x 2022 ABS three weeks ago and because of bad weather today I finely took it to work ...it is a 10.6 mile each way and speed limit is 60mph but many run 70mph as it is county roads and is exactly why I went to the awesome rating of the mpg of the Versys 300x ...I do live on dirt road that is a mile long and county roads are never a smooth ride so the Versatility of the Versys 300 fits prefect for my needs ..I am 56 years old and after today first commute I am fixing to order and will do this mod as soon as all parts come in and bike only has 48 miles on it as of today :-) Thanks for the vid as so many others do now show the 15 tooth replacement with the rubber like the OEM you are replacing and as a old Motocross rider I can see the need for this ruber helping to keep trash from building up causing problems ..also from years of Motocross I use the beloved chain wax for my chains as it dose what is needed with much less oil sling and attracting and holding of dirt best of luck great vid but a bit of a abrupt ending LOL

[@trekOCLVone]

My X300 now has over 4200 miles on it and the 15-tooth rubber bumpered was put on at about 200 (ish) miles. That is a good road test for long term stability of the change. By the way - please see Part 2 for the conclusion of this install. This was my first video (ever) and I didn't know how to video edit so I just posted both parts straight from the GoPro. I'm here for you if you have any questions. Please my many videos on the Versys X300. I just uploaded a video this evening on installing a Cardo Edge communication unit and joining in a wireless mic to talk to the GoPro mounted in front of my windshield. Fun project. Thank you and enjoy! As of this moment Amazon will let you back order the J.T. Sprockets JTF565.15RB but one month delivery. I checked ebay yesterday and there are 2 available now.

[@nelsonfamily6791]

I have the exact same bike as you. Love the Versys!! I am about to swap the sprocket following your instructions and exact parts list. Wish me luck !!! Thanks for the post. Truly.

[@trekOCLVone]

Thank you for your kind words. The 15 tooth is worth the trouble in my opinion as the RPM is reduced and the seems to quiet down the shifting so you aren't in 6th gear so fast. The Versys X300 from Kawasaki will do over 100mph even with the short gearing but I'll not be doing that no mater what front sprocket in on my bike. Got all the crazy stuff out of the way when I was a lot younger. If you have any questions just ask as I'm now somewhere around 1500 miles on the 15 tooth and still think I made the right decision to change it.

[@nelsonfamily6791]

@@trekOCLVone glad to hear that your 1500 miles in on the sprocket mod. i still havent swapped it out yet, but im hoping to find the time before the season is completely over for me ( im in Chicago). knowing that you have racked up so many miles after the swap, im sure it will be fine for the foreseeable future. Thanks again for your help!!!!!! ill check back with my impressions after I make the change. I just need go buy some metric sockets and wrenches! stay safe!!!

[@aaronswingle]

Just used this guide to replace my front sprocket on my 2021 Versys X 300. Thank you so much for the research you have done for this. Works great! I used 94 ft/lbs for the sprocket nut, not 100% sure it's correct. Any commenters have definite info on that spec?

[@trekOCLVone]

You're welcome. It was a collaboration between a J.T. Sprocket Technical Engineer and myself to find a solution for the difference in width. This 15 tooth sprocket has been on my X300 for over 2000 miles and it is working great. The actual specification for the front sprocket counter shaft nut (the big 27mm nut) is 93.7 ft./lbs. What an odd number so, I set mine like you did to an even number (93 or 94 - can't remember. Check out my other videos on this KZbin channel. I just uploaded a short version video on X300 windshield designs that took almost 6 months and 100+ hours to get to where I'm at currently. Just today I added a GoPro mount to the lower center (what I call the adapter) to get the camera out in front of the windshield which should be cleaner and more stable. Enjoy !

[@inbredsuicide]

Ordered the jt sprocket and then the kawasaki parts from my dealer and going to do this probably when I have new tires put on so it will fix two issues one with the vibration and two with the rapm at high speed

[@trekOCLVone]

Fantastic! Many X300 owners change out the front sprocket to a 15-tooth (rubber bumper) so the RPM is relaxed. If you have any questions please - just ask.

[@herberth.8490]

Thx a lot for this great video. I will change it also soon. Good ride from Germany.

[@trekOCLVone]

Fantastic ! The Versys X300 will only allow about a 10% change in gearing without dashboard issues. I feel the front sprocket going to a 15 tooth with the rubber bumper is the way to go.

[@ProfessorMink]

Great video! Thanks for taking the time to describe your solution in detail. How many guys just purchased the 15T sprocket without considering alignment? That will wear out chain and sprocket prematurely.

[@trekOCLVone]

Changing out the front sprocket isn't rocket surgery, but it needs to be done with alignment in mind. I think the swap would have been more like a 30 minute task but with all the video time added it took me longer. Fun project to find a 15-tooth rubber bumpered solution. Check out many of my other X300 videos on common upgrades and accessory installations.

[@TwoFingerCrimp]

Thanks for doing the homework on this 👍 answers a lot of questions. I ended up keeping the stock 14 and throwing a 44 on back. Costs the same, bolts on fast and back on the road with desired effect.

[@trekOCLVone]

This sprocket change was both finding a good solution to updating to a 15-tooth rubber bumpered and keeping cost down. The total cost for the 15 tooth swap out was under $30. In today's world $30 dollars doesn't buy you much. What rear sprocket did you go with?

[@MikesProjectsandHobbiesMC]

I had my wife press on the rear brake while I used the air impact to remove the nut.

[@trekOCLVone]

Seems like the best method if you have an impact gun.

[@Choirboyjr11]

Nice Iron Pony Shirt!

[@trekOCLVone]

Iron Pony is pretty much known for their large retail store. I just happen to be located close to the store and it is a must see. Have you been to the store?

[@Choirboyjr11]

I have, I'm a central Ohioan myself. I love that place!

[@trekOCLVone]

@@Choirboyjr11 Great ! Another X300 owner near by.

[@trekOCLVone]

I've have other videos up now for the T-Rex Heavy Duty Skid Plate (adding a 5th bracket) and the T-Rex Barkbuster hand guards and what you need to know for those two items. My video for a full LED light upgrade for the Versys X300 is now up on my channel and Along with some electronics, Denali Sound Bomb Split Air Horn, Beefing up the weak genuine Kawasaki Crash bars, Barkbusters installed the right way, Install of the Dunlap Trailmax Mission tires on the Versys X300 and a super beefed up skid plate and lifting the whole bike by using a Motorcycle Jack that I restored. More to come.

[@trekOCLVone]

To see part 2 this is the link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW1g5uGjNyXmNk&ab_channel=trekOCLVone Pardon the sweaty face as it was a Ka-billion degrees and I look like a mess. Here is all the info for all parts and these video links: And the results - 100% install and test ride and it works perfect and it is silent - as in no gear noise. The 2017 to 2021 Kawasaki Versys X300 changing of the front sprocket from the stock 14 tooth Rubber Cushion to a JT Sprocket 15 tooth Rubber Cushion. The JT Sprocket is an alternate sprocket that is different in the width of the sprocket at the center spline. The videos are how to do this update and what is needed to take care of the width difference. The solution is to use two Kawasaki washer parts numbers to in essence fill the gap. The stock sprocket is 9.3mm wide and the alternate is 5.8mm wide. At length the JT Sprocket tech confirmed that this alternate will not be an issue with the narrower width. The two videos will walk you through the process and provide the part numbers of everything needed. (the JT sprocket and the two Kawasaki washers). This is a pretty easy task to do it you have the right tools. Ask any questions in the comments. The road test went great. There is an advantage with the 15 tooth sprocket to lower the RPM of the bike through out the gears. The new gear provides: 5500 rpm at 50 mph, 6700 rpm at 60 mph, 7700 rpm at 70 mph and 9000 rpm at 80 mph. About a 10% lowering in 6th gear. What you will need: quantity of ONE JT Sprocket Part number JTF565-15RB, quantity of ONE Kawasaki washer part# 92200-1389 and a quantity of THREE Kawasaki washers part# 92200-0851. Sprocket sourced from (Dennis Kirk dot com) link: JT Sprockets Front Rubber Cushioned Sprocket - JTF565.15RB Dirt Bike Motorcycle | www.denniskirk.com/ The two different part number Kawasaki washers sourced from (Partszilla dot com) Quantity of THREE of the 92200-0851 Kawasaki washer, link: Kawasaki 92200-0851 - WASHER | Partzilla.com Quanity of ONE of the 92200-1389 Kawasaki washer, link: Kawasaki 92200-1389 - WASHER | Partzilla.com There are all inexpensive parts for this sprocket swap. Disclaimer: I am NOT A PROFESSIONAL Actor! No critics please. lol I've published a 2 part video that explains the front sprocket swap to a JT Sprockets 15 Tooth Rubber Cushion. The links: (8289) 2017 to 2021 Kawasaki Versys X300 changing to a JT Sprocket 15T rubber cushion (part 1 of 2) - KZbin kzbin.info/www/bejne/r3_SY6ycrK9qbLM&ab_channel=trekOCLVone (8289) 2017 to 2021 Kawasaki Versys X300 changing to a JT Sprocket Rubber Cushion 15T sprocket part 2 of 2 - Youbube kzbin.info/www/bejne/gWW1g5uGjNyXmNk&ab_channel=trekOCLVone

[@kristymeter2405]

Great video!,! The guard above the sprocket did you remove it or modify that guard

[@trekOCLVone]

There was no interference with any of the plastic sprocket cover or the any other part. Going to the 15 tooth rubber bumpered sprocket is about a 30 to 40 minute process. No altering the chain either. The most feedback on the front sprocket change is the sprocket nut removal being harder if you don't have a proper braker bar. Or the best is an Impact wrench which removes the sprocket nut in about 30 milliseconds.

[@davidwegs1]

I wasn't clear on how you held the back wheel for the removal of the sprocket nut... just the 2x4, or was it to release the back wheel so you can remove the chain from the front sprocket?🤔

[@davidwegs1]

Also, thanks so much for the effort to make the video.... old go pros work great too.

[@trekOCLVone]

I had the 2x4 just under the wheel for the removal of the front sprocket nut. It wasn't really needed as I used a pneumatic high torque Ingersol Rand impact gun for the nut removal. With the use of the Ingersol Rand the nut came off very fast - less than one second. The rear wheel didn't even move. There are X300 owners that have had a tough time removing that front sprocket nut because they didn't have the pneumatic/electric/battery impact gun. It can be tough to block the wheel and even with a breaker bar the nut doesn't move. The factory spec is 93.7 lbs. ft. That is a lot just and water/dirt/crud and let it rust for a year or more and you will be trying everything. The 2x4 does hold the rear wheel though - it is a good fit. Just get your hands on an good impact gun with a 27mm socket and the sprocket will zip right off.

[@trekOCLVone]

@@davidwegs1 That old GoPro is a model: 3 + silver and is at least 10 years old by now. I use it for all my videos on my channel. The microphone on that old 3 + silver is excellent and the video is 1920x1080 (1080p) and is also good enough for KZbin. Thank you and If you have any more questions just ask.

[@sexycowman]

6:10 The front sprocket replacement is what is standard on a Versys 650 :)

[@trekOCLVone]

I think the Ninja 300 (which is the original model for this X300 engine) had a 14/43 combo. With the 15 tooth rubber bumppered sprocket being available and a couple of inexpensive splinded washer I change just the front. Total cost less than $30. And still like it. X300 from 2017 to about 2019 will not allow any more than 10% change or there are engine errors and gear indicator blanks. A couple of X300 owners of 2021 bike have gone to the 15/43 with no errors.

[@burgundypoint]

Can you still fit the 112 link chain over the 15T sprocket or does this require another chain?

[@trekOCLVone]

There is plenty of adjustment for the stock 112 link chain when changing the front sprocket to the 15-tooth. The 15-tooth sprocket barely makes a difference. On the other hand, the rear needs to be reduced to a 43-tooth to make the same amount of ratio change that "may" require links to be removed from the chain as that is a full 1.5 inch length difference. The 15-tooth front chain length is probably only 0.25 inch difference. Thank you for your question.

[@matthatter93]

Will changing the sprocket to 15 improve off road riding as far as low down torque?

[@trekOCLVone]

The change to a 15 tooth front sprocket will lower the RPM at all speeds. Because the 14 tooth sprocket proved to be geared really low the change to the 15 tooth sprocket will lower the RPM by about 10%. This is not a big change and will not be that noticeable while riding off road. The 15 tooth sprocket will be more noticeable at highway speeds. Again only about 10% however, it is a favorite modification for many Versys X300 owners including myself. I like the 15 tooth sprocket over the 14 tooth sprocket and will not change it back. Thank you for your question.

[@matthatter93]

@@trekOCLVone thanks for the answer!

[@bigyin.7710]

Hi, just watched your video, I changed my rear sprocket to a 43 tooth so I could retain the rubber front sprocket. Just wondering why you didn't or couldn't use a few splined washers instead of the dished washers to obtain the correct spacing?

[@trekOCLVone]

F.Y.I. - With your 43 on the back (stock is 46) there have been many X300 owner complaining about going also to a 15 Tooth front caused the bike's computer to light the "check engine" and the "ABS" along with blanking the gear indicator and throwing two error coded on the display. This dashboard mess is happening with 2017 up to about 2019 bikes. Newer 2020 or 2021 there have been owners saying the dashboard mess doesn't happen with the 43/15 sprocket combo. You are warned. Now on to your answer- The critical stack up was achieved using the one splined washer and two fold over (dished) washers. I measured the width of the splined and the dished washers and the correct stack up was a combination of the two parts. With the 27mm nut having a recessed center if gives you some wiggle room and you may find that using a different combination or just one washer part number (of either type) can work. I ordered a quantity of 5 of each to be almost certain that the correct stack up could be achieved and did the measuring and provided what was the best combination. The dished washers are much larger and also considered it best against the sprocket for maximum contact. I would recommend the stack up that I came up with as I've now put 1700+ miles on my X300 with this 15 Tooth RB sprocket and it is working great.

[@bigyin.7710]

@@trekOCLVone Hi, thanks for your reply. I'd seen your post on Facebook linking to your videos and decided to watch them. I am not going to change the front sprocket, I'm happy with the current set up. I also replaced the chain for a much better shorter one.

[@trekOCLVone]

@@bigyin.7710 With my front sprocket updating to 15 Tooth I inspected the stock chain and it seems to be low quality with links leaning left and right and up and down. Kind of like a warped railroad track. I'm not happy that Kawasaki put such a chain on our bikes. I've already purchased a high quality D.I.D. VX3 chain ready to go on.

[@bigyin.7710]

@@trekOCLVone the same chain I purchased. 😁

[@lukemontgomery6895]

Don’t be a goon, just shove a piece of scrap wood or whatever you have laying around under the tire to keep it from spinning and hit it with impact. Comes off in 2 seconds

[@trekOCLVone]

in the video I did use a piece of scrap wood and did use a pneumatic high power Ingersol Rand Impact. And I'm not a goon. Where did that come from?

[@hunttomuchwolfe]

Ninja 300 parts will fit your 300 it's the same motor

[@trekOCLVone]

The Ninja 300 has a sprocket combo of: 14/42 tooth. The 14 sprocket on the Ninja is rubber bumpered and this video describes an alternate 15 tooth rubber bumpered to maintain a quiet front gear. There are X300 owners that has commented that the 15-tooth direct drop in sprocket is noisy without the rubber bumper. I worked with J.T.Sprocket's technical staff to find an alternate and accommodate it on the X300. It was well worth it for my first modification on my X300.

[@trekOCLVone]

The 4000 mile follow up - The 15-tooth rubber bumpered update is working great!