Chain and Sprocket 101 - Gearing Up - Gearing Down - Finding the Best Gear Ratio

[@justdad53]

I have been drag racing for decades and land speed racing for eight years. I have about nine different combinations of gearing to run, sometimes I gave moved down from 525 go 520, moved from O or X to racing, have run steel, aluminum, and combinations of steel and aluminum. Depending on the type of racing, street or touring riding it can make quite a difference in dialing in the gearing. I learn something every time.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

It's crazy isn't it? Way under-rated for sure.

[@galactic6457]

My bike broke down and i got a sketchy guy to fix it for cheap by changing only the chain and i didn't know anything about them. A day later it broke down again and now that i have watched this video it helped me a lot to understand and i know what to order. Thank you very much

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Sorry to hear about the bike issue. Glad this video helped.

[@TheHortond]

I went up 1 tooth on the front for my ADV bike to get better highway speed. I went down 1 tooth in the front and up 2 in the rear on my superbike for better torque on the street. I brought them both to the middle where I drive the most.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Sounds like good changes. What it really boils down to is how you ride and what you want from your motorcycle. Which is exactly what you've described. Thanks for the comment. Ride safe.

[@atticusnicol151]

This was achieved very helpful! I recently got an 1988 kdx80 about a month ago and I want to get higher speeds from it I mainly drive it on country roads and on dirt trails. I'm not really taking it in the mud or doing endurance. So this really helped me to figure out what gearing ratio I want. Thank you guys! 👍

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks for watching. Glad you enjoyed. it.

[@williamjohnson295]

Great explanation guys, much less confusing now !!

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thank you William Johnson. That was the goal... glad it worked! Thanks for watching. Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@victorresendez2652]

Thee best job in explaining all of this , and yes it can be confusing, I have numerous bikes and have always just figured factory set ups were the best, I am going to play around with gearing, now that I kinda understand it a little better

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Awesome. Thanks for the kind words. Ride safe.

[@jhobaugh45]

For understanding the gear up vs down, just look at a bicycle... it has different gears in place and you can test the changes yourself. Bigger gear in the front makes top speed, bigger gear in the rear makes slower speed and more torque

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks for pointing that out.

[@littlekingcobrasden4217]

I'm dyslexic, and this was too many numbers for me to comprehend in the KZbin videos. So short and simple, changing my front sprocket is not an option in my case. At least not for another six months when more money becomes available. (I can't even get to the front sprocket to count the teeth without disassembling 1/2 the motor.) However I'm upgrading my entire rear tire/ rim from spoke to mag rim. (Primarily because I keep bending the spoke rims) This forces me to change some mounting adapters, currently I have 42T on the rear large sprocket, Some of the longer steeper hills I can hear and feel the bike struggle to climb. But on flat straight road I'm averaging 22 mph at full throttle. In my particular case, this is all original parts, as a new "in box" gift from a friend. It's now only a few months and 200 miles old, still in its breaking in stages. So my dilemma is it wouldn't hurt to have more hill climbing power, but I'm riding on highway roads and can't afford to lose speed. I need to keep up with the slow lane traffic. Most the slow traffic is at least 35 mph. The adapter for the mag rim I'm looking at online is set up with a 36T sprocket. How will the difference between the 42T and the 36T help or hurt me? If I can find the same adapter I need with a different tooth, what number tooth do you recommend? I am very limited what I can change. This is a bicycle with a 2 cycle motor on it. So I know I'm not any where near what a normal motorcycle has for engine ability. But I know that the principles the gear ratio are the same. One more factor that might help make a difference, is I almost always have a wagon/ trailer pulled behind me to carry spare gas, tools, and carry groceries home. (My current gas tank is bearly one gallon, I have a small Harley Davidson gas tank, that is estimated three or four gallons at a house I recently inherited 62 miles away, that I plan to try fitting on for longer rides between fill ups. The irony is I almost need that tank to travel that far to pick it up.) I live in the sticks, and it's 25 miles one way to Walmart. (50 miles round trip) I'm getting between 35 and 45 miles to a gallon. [Possibly between 50 and 75, if I don't idle it to let it warm up] so with my current set up, I can get from the house to Walmart, and even most of the way home on a tank, but to save myself aggravation, try to remember to top off before leaving Walmart to head home.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thank you for your inquiry. Sounds like your bike is a ton of fun! If your bike is struggling on steeper hills with the 42T sprocket, you might be walking it up if you install the 36T! That is a huge jump and while it will help get you a higher top speed, your bike will suffer on take off, and when going up hill. Be careful going to mag wheel... instead of bending spokes, you may crack rims and that would not be fun! The Harley tank sounds fun! -- Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@C_R_O_M________]

You don't "rev up higher" (@2:23) with a longer gearing...you get more speed per RPM (and that's even doubtful if you overdo it in the gearing department). You "rev up higher" if the bike can rev up higher in relation to the work that's been asked to do. If the work is too much (e.g. carrying a weight it can't carry, or when the gearing is too long) the engine will have difficulties to rev up. The shorter the gearing the faster it 'll get to high rpms but the less top speed you'll end up with. Having said that there's a sweet spot for every bike (different transmission, weight, wheel size, etc) for every purpose it can be used for.

[@richardsprings1414]

Awesome job of explaining chains and Gearing

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks 👍Glad you liked it. Thanks for watching.

[@JoshNewby84]

The only instance in which making the final drive ratio smaller (gearing up) increases top speed is if your bike currently bounces off the limiter in top gear. That's it. The change in speed would only be single digit percentages. If you're not at the limiter currently then speed will not change at all, only the engine rpm at top speed will. It would be great if the people who sell parts for a living understood & explained this concept to their customers.

[@JoshNewby84]

@@FranzAntonMesmer I don't know what that has to do with the common misconception of gearing up to increase top speed.

[@jj-tq4hx]

Best explained video I have seen on this matter. Thanks and now I can decide what's best for my Gixxer 600!

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching.

[@UnknownEnemyNL]

Hey man, so did u change the gearing on ur gixxer? Did u notice anything and what is the build year??

[@andreduval]

This is one of the best videos I've ever seen! Super clear!

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thank you for watching and for taking the time to comment. -- Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@CocoKickz94]

I have a 2023 KLX140 I went down 2 teeth (14t to 12t) in the front and just recently went down 1 tooth on the rear (50t to 49t) and I find it really balanced my bike out. I was hitting the rev limiter way too fast with the 12t on the front and 50t on the back but that 1 tooth decrease in the rear has really made a difference for how I ride. Hope this helps anyone trying to figure out a good balance point

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, thank you for providing such great insight. Hopefully others will find this information useful.

[@AussieAdventurer]

Best explanation I have heard and seen- excellent job guys 👏👏👏 I didn’t know much about this subject until I wanted a bit more torque out of my KTM 390 Adventure. So someone recommended going from a 15T fron to a 14T front sprocket and leave the rear 45T sprocket as is. It did make a nice little difference alright though I have a few more rpm’s now at lower speeds but the combo worked well for slow traffic and trail rides. So I geared down if I got this right 🤔😬..yes 🥴 In anyway it’s a nicer experience now and I am very happy 😃😂😂😂 Stay safe and thank you for sharing your knowledge ✊ Cheers Jim

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Awesome, glad you found a setup that works for you.

[@abdulrahmanalsaati5621]

Hello, hope u r doing well I found ur msg helpful since I had 2023 Duke 390 street bike a month ago, I'm thinking to do the same as u, front sprocket 15T to 14T So to be clearly understand, this will give me longer Rpm n more top speed without losing power, isn't it?

[@pootietang9542]

Really the best video I've watched in a while and that's saying alot. You guy's are good at this very informative and professional, helpful knowledge and that's honestly a good looking kit.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Wow, thanks! We are really thrilled you enjoyed the video. Thank you for watching.

[@badmofo6353]

what is the rule for what chain length to use if you go up 1 tooth in the front or 1 tooth in th rear. Thanks, great video guys.

[@bernardogartalia9029]

I noticed that easily hit the rpm limiter with my 15t x 46t combination. I decided to change to 16t x 49t, practically same gear ratios. I noticed a relax rpm ang long gearings in my lower gears, giving me the needed rpm to hit the top speed.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Good stuff. Thanks for sharing.

[@muzz3564]

Geared down. Im running an Sv1000 with -1tooth front and +3teeth rear. Who needs a 170mph road bike when 2nd gear wheelies happen at 40 👍does chew through fuel and need to recalibrate speedo but its worth it.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

The fun factor and "smiles per mile" beat out MPG every time!!!

[@theartist8189]

Just trying to learn something about gear ratio for highest top end speed. Working on a fun 4 stroke motorized skateboard project and trying to learn all that i can

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Sounds great! Thanks for watching.

[@akupehsluarketatAR]

still uncertain if i should down 3 on the rear or plus 1 on the front. They both gave the same result but what effect does it have on the bike other than speed and engine rpm.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks for watching akupehsluarketatAR. If you play with the counter shaft sprocket, it is inexpensive (+/- $20) and you will not need to change your chain to "feel the results." Making that adjustment will let you have a better understanding of "what you really need" to get the proper feel. RPM's will change... but so will the bikes responsiveness, torque and top speeds. What is the Year / Make / Model of your bike and what are you trying to accomplish? - Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@akupehsluarketatAR]

@@chaparralmotorsports im currently riding a Monster 1100evo. its my daily rider and i occasionally do long distance riding with it. The bike gets to its limited rpm of just 7900 pretty easily. So im thinking of going up 1 tooth on the front to see if i can get higher top speed and also increase the fuel range as the tiny 13litre tank takes me about 185km at most before hitting reserve when im riding between 160 - 200kph. Hitting full throttle only lasted me 155km. So im thinking of swapping to a 16t when im off for a long ride and back to 15t for daily commute

[@chaparralmotorsports]

That sounds like a perfect combo! I do the same on my 2009 KTM 950 Super Enduro. For the Commute & Highway to my destinations I run a 16T in the front. When I know I will be hitting trails for a day or more... I drop down to a 15T Front. With the 16T I can hit 130 mph... but with the 15T can can just barely get over 100 mph. But Off Road - it's Amazing! - Kyle

[@akupehsluarketatAR]

@@chaparralmotorsports i cant even go above 30mph in the dirt without crashing

[@JoshNewby84]

Any time you make a sprocket smaller chain wear will be increased. This is because the chain now has to turn along a sharper radius.

[@andrewwest8705]

Hey guys, great video on gearing & great advice on going up or down teeth front or rear depending on what you are trying to achieve & as far as to using old chains on new spockets or vice versa , thanks for sharing your experience

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Glad you found it helpful. Ride safe.

[@hiltonmcconnell2563]

waiting for my CRF 300 L going with a Dunlop D606 rear tire and a Pirelli M16 front, do not want to take away from the front as it is all ready a 14 tooth but because of the 10 mm larger tire wanting to go to a 45 rear, This bike will be used 90% dirt road and trail, only pavement will be going to and from the dirt. Also wanting a X ring chain. would a aluminum rear sprocket make a lot of difference. looking for torque not speed, at 73 will be taking it slow, already have a KTM 390 Adventure and a DR650 for road DR 650 for long distant dirt roads. Bough have Dunlop TrailMax Mission tires, so not the best for mud and deep sand. That is where the CRF 300L will come in to play. Thanks for the video did like it very much, there is another one I seen on tires and gearing for the CRF 300 L, also a very good video.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, you probably won't notice much of a performance difference with that sprocket. It will most likely cost a bit more than steel and wear faster than a steel sprocket.

[@jetdr]

Reason I went 1 tooth down in the front for my Woods Bike.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Nice. Gearing is a great way to dial on your motorcycle to suit your riding style and needs. Ride safe.

[@peterparsons7141]

O wow guys,, I want to change both gears on a project, I’m changing the use of my bike, small single cyl. Street, to back country trail I had to 101 what I needed, and I watched your vid. Some good info, really a challenge to work with. When you get to the setup,Combo’s Would be good to use words like rpm’s, etc. Use measurement words... summarize important stuff, leave out the other stuff.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks for the advice.

[@muddyboots-mac]

Nice content. Need your advice my Kawasaki KLX150 stock sprocket is front 14T and rear 52T. Tyre size front 21 rear 18. Now i want to learn slow wheelie can you advice what is the best size of sprocket should i use for the front and rear. I mean by changing the sprocket i can bring up the wheel easily. Thanks

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hey thanks for watching. Please give us a call, we have people that can discuss this with you. [phone]

[@Eqrx]

If I went from a 13 tooth front sprocket and a 49 rear tooth sprocket to a 14 front sprocket and also to a 48 rear tooth sprocket would that make my kx80 more faster

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, yeah that combo should give you a little bit more on the top end.

[@teamammo808MRG]

Hi my name is Justin and I wanted to up on the torque but keep my top end high out of tight turns , right now on my 07 gsxr 600 I’m running a 15/43 525 . If you had any comments and suggestions I’ll be greatly appreciated thanks again and I really like the videos .

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, thanks for watching our video. Play around with this gearing calculator and it may help you decide what setup is best for you: www.gearingcommander.com/

[@Lowlitstudio]

I’ve changed chains and sprockets but never geared up or down. Never quite understood that till now.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for watching.

[@anthonytauber9062]

I drive a dirt oval micro sprint 600 gixxer and have been trying to research gearing. Wow! This video has helped so much. Thank you for sharing this information.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

HI Anthony, very glad to hear you found it useful. Thanks for watching.

[@MrTjmorse]

gearing up ! have a small pitbike went from 10 inch wheels to 14 inch wheel bigger forks and now looking to go fast with little 49 cc motor, going to 16 tooth up front and as low as 35 tooth in the rear but will be using gear ratio charts that you mentioned in your video this will be my first build so please any advice I can get will be appreciated

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Oh heck yeah Timothy! That build sounds like a fun project. The chart will help you greatly and the cost effective way to make a change is to make the counter shaft sprocket change... see if you like it... make necessary changes.... Once you get close, you can fine tune with a complete set in the proper sized front and rear sprockets for that specific gear ratio. Have fun! - Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@mrilikeskateboards]

Keep in mind that if the gear up is too drastic, the engine might not have enough power to ever max out on top gear and may nog on the bottom end really badly... I have 0 clue about sprocket sizes for small pit bikes, so it may not be as crazy of a change as it sounds to me.

[@ridwanwawan66]

hai. i use klx 140 2017. i use chain 428 / 14-57. what is the gear size if i want to use the 520 chain. thank you

[@keatondemoss3056]

You should try a 16-39. Iv heard its great but im curious

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks for the suggestion.

[@Leonking088]

What happens if you have a 16tooth front and a 41tooth back? Like a bigger front and a smaller back?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, take a look at this article, specifically the image of the sprocket chart to see how changes with effect your setup: www.chapmoto.com/blog/2018/06/22/tech-tip-dirt-bike-chains-sprockets-and-gear-ratios/

[@reneerothwell8972]

My son has a 4 stroke pit bike 125cc. First gear is so short it may as well be irrelevant. Not even long enough for wheelies or going up a hill. Almost never gets used. Other than that the torque and performance in every other gear is great. What would you reccomend that i do to get a little more out of 1st gear before he has to shift ? PLEASE REPLY

[@chaparralmotorsports]

you could go 1 tooth larger in the front, if there is room... or you can go up town three teeth or so in the rear. That should help! - Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@reneerothwell8972]

@@chaparralmotorsports ty!! Actually just ordered the piranha 140cc to put in it. Cant wait. Itll be a fun swap and the piranha is supposed to be more reliable

[@chaparralmotorsports]

@@reneerothwell8972 Nice!

[@reneerothwell8972]

@@chaparralmotorsports yeah, im trying to talk to someone who has done the same swap before so that i have someone to hit up if i have any questions

[@swatboss1]

very good informations thank you guys

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks for watching!

[@bradleymicallef1066]

Really helpful lads, thanks heaps, I have heard people saying all the "take a tooth" "add a tooth" "gear up" "gear down" and have always just politely smiled along... I actually know what is going on now. HAHAHAHAHA

[@chaparralmotorsports]

And that my friend is what it is all about. And that is a common problem with this industry... guys talk as if "everyone should know" what they are talking about... instead of backing it up a bit. Happy to be of assistance. It is tricky, even seasoned vets of the sport get a bit confused a bit sometimes ;) Thanks for watching! - Kyle

[@drizzy32191]

So I bought a R6 and my front sprocket nut was loose and came off which was funny but annoying but anyways as I was diagnosing the problem I actually noticed that my front sprocket wasnt stock it was a 15 tooth (stock is 16 tooth which it also threw off my speedo by 5 mph so if I was going 40 mph I was actually doing 35 mph) which according to this video means that it was geared towards torque so what type of performance would I get from going up 2 teeth from stock in the front and going down 2 teeth in the back

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thank you for your inquiry Drake. Wow! That would be an effective 8 teeth (or so) smaller in the back! Your bike will become very sluggish off the line requiring a great deal of clutch slipping to get rolling. Your top speed will increase and your RPM's at any speed will be lower giving you better fuel economy. -- Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@paulopita-groz5014]

My Dear I have a honda nc700x, and the standard sprocket is 16 front and 43 rear but I've already changed the rear to 41, but didn't get me more top end speed and in my 6th gear it loses power and I have to ride all the time in my 5th 'cause the 6th isn't getting me no more speed, so should a change now the front to a 17 and maintain the 41 rear, will I get my desire top end speed?? And another thing with the standard 16front and 43back I used to get 188km/h but now that I changed to 41 rear it is faster but lost top end speed and get to 170km/h, I want your help getting a top end speed like to 199km/h

[@HolySych]

wow this was exactly the video I was needing. thankyou so much!

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Glad it was helpful!

[@slimkek4254]

I don't quite understand, I have an old CB200 and i use it to commute to work. I used to have a front 14, and the rear is 39, it was faster coming off the light but it vibrates crazy when getting the top speed. Now i changed my rear set to 42 and the cruising rpm has lowered vibration. I want to get a bigger sprocket to get less vibrations. But this video makes me think otherwise

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Yes, there is a give and take with all mods away from stock or OEM.

[@slimkek4254]

@@chaparralmotorsports so you mean that if i go 51 rear sprocket it will reduce the vibrations amd give me more top speed when hitting the highway?

[@rubio787]

Hey really need your help. I’m working on a project and don’t know what gearing to go with. Front and rear wheel are a size 12” inch and it’s a #415 chain. Also it’s a 100cc two-stroke engine. Thank you so much and awesome video

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, it really depends on what you are looking for performance wise. Check out this website and put in you vehicle's information and then play around with different combinations to see what suits your needs. www.gearingcommander.com/

[@rubio787]

@@chaparralmotorsports this is more of a custom bike so it’s not on your chart. It’s a kids you could say pocket bike front wheel is a size 12. The rear wheel is a size 12 with 415 chain. something that takes off faster. I’m sorry really new to this

[@mxjoe1777]

If l buy one teeth more on rear sprocket,do l need and a longer chain from standard ?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Great question MX JOE. Typically no, but the rear sprocket is pretty big. Look at your chain adjusters. If you have more than a 1/4" of "play" or adjustment towards the front of the adjuster you will probably have enough room to add 1 tooth in the rear. Keep in mind that as you add teeth, the axle will be pushed closer to the front of the bike. Scope that adjuster out... It is there that you will find your answer. - Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@danejurus69]

@@chaparralmotorsports I'm confused. Wouldn't adding teeth to the rear sprocket push the axle further away from the front of the bike?

[@linguinatorschwartz9309]

@danejurus69 -- No. Adding teeth to the rear sprocket will make the sprocket "occupy" more chain links, leaving fewer chain links for the top and bottom runs of the chain. If there are fewer chain links available for the top and bottom runs of the chain, that means the distance between the countershaft sprocket and the rear sprocket will be SHORTER. This means that when you add teeth to the rear sprocket, the rear axle will have to move forward, closer to the countershaft sprocket.

[@mxjoe1777]

@@linguinatorschwartz9309 😂😂😂😂 that question was posted from 5years ago, yo " thanx " on answer 😂😂😂😂

[@linguinatorschwartz9309]

@mxjoe1777 -- The internet is largely timeless. THOUSANDS of people might read any particular post or comment over a period of years. My comment wasn't for the original poster as much as it was for the entire community of riders who might be reading this thread.

[@whistlerscustoms3755]

Might want to clarify that at the 4:42 minute mark that if this was on a left side drive, the master link clip was shown to be backwards in relation to actual correct installation of the clip. This video footage might mislead some people who learned from watching and use this as a guide for installation as well..

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Good point. Thanks.

[@dukesexton5649]

awesome i was wondering if you could do a vid on why you should use a clutch i have friends that just use it on start and stop told them its not good

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks for your suggestion Duke. This is one of those "depends on who you talk to" types of topics. Kinda like Oil and Tires ;)- We will put something together. Thanks for watching! - Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@dukesexton5649]

Thanks

[@jamiepes3296]

Awesome video guys I learnt a heap from it I'm adding a tooth to the front to get more speed is this correct thanks

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Yes it is!

[@andrewbecker3700]

Can't ever remember running stock gears on any bike I've owned? Most dirtbikes come with crappy lightwieght chains and weak aluminum rear sprockets combined with soft steel fronts so everything burns up in under 10hrs. Chromoly gears and DID x-ring superbike chains rated for 800cc will get you 30x the durability. I never change the front sprocket count on a stock bike without changing the rear count the same direction a couple teeth too. That way your not getn to far away from the intended stock powerband in each gear.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hi Andrew, you make some great points and have some good insight. Thanks for watching.

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

I'm thinking about doing a -1+2 520 gear and chain conversion on my 2023 ZX4RR. I want to have better take off and move my torque down in the RPM range. I'm not interested in top speed. I just want to overtake on the road without gearing down so much to capture the higher torque and taking off from a stop light a little quicker. Am I thinking correctly?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Probably wouldn't suggest making such a big change with both front and rear. Either do one or the other.

[@lovingmylifeasIage6741]

Yeah I think I will do a one tooth smaller first.

[@SD-ir1vf]

I’ve tried to put 14 tooth sprocket on the front and the chain guard won’t fit. With a five pitch sprocket you’re adding five eights to the circumference and it won’t fit.

[@motobikemadness]

Hi, I have a sinnis RSX 125cc and I'm.looking for more top end speed. If I change my sprockets how much speed would I gain. Thanks David 😁

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hi Dave, sorry but not exactly sure. We are not familiar with that bike. There are sever factors such as what gearing you decide to go with. Search the web, there is a gearing tool that may be able to give you some numbers.

[@kevinhall409]

i reduced the size of my wheels on my CRF1000L the OME on the REAR is 18, and i reduced it 17inch i kept the OME sprocket but the RPM went up. and front 21inch " on the front to 19 inch which as altered the Angel of the front forks. its also complicated.as i canrt put a bigger front drive sprocket as there is no room it put one tooth more, as no one makes one for my CRF1000l

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, Sorry but we do not have a answer for your situation. While many people change tire sizing to wider or narrower, it really isn't recommended by motorcycle manufacturers to change wheel dimensions i.e. go larger smaller, as it changes the geometry and other aspects as to how the bike was intended to handle.

[@rezkidgamingyt4725]

Awesome i understand this explanation no problem thanks guys i need to go back to the shop and buy a couple more sprockets lol . I went and got my self a 48 tooth rear with a 13 tooth front I think stalk is 13/51 on the 2023 Wr 250f I want Less snap out of the corners in slow technical stuff the throttle on my bike is snappy more like an on of well I geuss I should use the clutch a bit more and lean better clutch control for hills and corners yha I’m just going to buy a couple more sprockets they are not that expensive, I’ve spent more on stupid things before lol

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Glad you found the video useful. Ride safe.

[@MountainMXOfficial]

Thanks for the video! I'm running 13/50 on my kx450f but I want something better for tight slower trails, should I go with 13/51 or 13/52?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thanks for watching. Try going with just one step up. 13/51

[@deadbeast99k85]

I'm still confused lol , I can't add another tooth on the front sprocket without taking the case saver out , so I'm just working with the back . I want higher speed and lower rpm . So I can cruise. Currently at 13t to 48t . And I just clip 80 k at top speed on a 2022 crf250f.

[@timothymelvin3824]

I purchased a 2002 cr250r and use it for trail more than anything else. I have a tall first gear. If I understand I correctly I can take 1 tooth off the first sprocket and shorten the first gear. Is that correct? Thanks for your help.

[@busby905]

Honda CR 125 1995 Manual says 13/51 but I want more bottom end and the manual says you can go 13/53 which is a ratio of 4.08 Mine has 12/49 on it which is also a ratio of 4.08 So thats the same isnt it, so its already at the maximum for more bottom end? Great video Just liked/subscribed Thanks

[@tecmobilellc]

I would like to know if my bike top speed is 100mph , what would be my top speed if I use one sprocket one tooth smaller on the rear ?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thank you for your inquiry. It will depend on the bike, the tires... lots of variables. Test it and find out! We are curios to hear of your outcome. What is the Year / Make / Model of the bike in question? -- Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@freedom240188]

I have just done this so will find out. I can do 100mph in 1st. I have went 2 teeth less. See wat outcome is wen mot happens lol R1 4c8

[@JoshNewby84]

Top speed won't change unless the bike is hitting the rev limiter in top gear. Only the engine rpm at top speed will change. The only way to increase top speed is to increase power or decrease drag.

[@thefixer1776]

I ride a yz450f and I seem to not need to shift gears nearly as much as others I ride with and I'd like to calm down the bike some. The gearing is stock now. What change would help me? I ride tracks mostly.

[@justtmaddie]

Try 1 tooth less in the front & 2 teeth up in the rear , it will give you more slow speed control for climbing & stuff

[@nowellboldra5799]

I'm still hesitant but I own a 2007 yz450f and I'm running a 48 tooth in the back and I'm looking to find that happy medium so I'll be comfortable in desert races to a track to the dunes

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Understandable! We recommend that you find a set-up that "works okay for all three" and then grab yourslelf a couple different counter shaft sprockets. Those will allow you to quickly and easily gear one way or the other and will have you maximization at each location. -- Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@jonathanfunk7715]

I'm looking at buying an Enduro bike. So I'm trying to learn everything thing I can. Engine repair suspension. Want to learn how to up the weight limit for deep wood travels. But I also have to keep it streetable so I can teach my son how to ride. 😊

[@chaparralmotorsports]

You can do it!

[@joshuakwan5737]

can't find a silent front sprocket for my CBR150R so I'm gonna have to find em individually

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Silent?

[@TheNpcNoob]

So to gain more top speed and extend the gears (1,2,3) on my m2r kxf125 pitbike that I’m converting to a uk road legal supermoto I would ideal try and go 1-3 teeth up in the front and leave the rear? Stock wheels are f14-r12 but Upgrading to f16/r14. I’m not sure on the chain length but I’d say the bike has less than 5hours on it from new

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hi, you can go either way. Either switch up the rear or switch up the front. Switching the rear will be a mild change andn switching up the front will be a more noticeable change. Take a look at this article for further information: www.chapmoto.com/blog/2018/06/22/tech-tip-dirt-bike-chains-sprockets-and-gear-ratios/

[@JoshNewby84]

Top speed won't change unless the bike is hitting the rev limiter in top gear. Only the engine rpm at top speed will change. The only way to increase top speed is to increase power or decrease drag.

[@jescut23]

If you go down 1 teeth in the front what exactly is happening? For example lets say that with 16 teeth in front you will hit 50mph @ 5seconds. With 15teeth ( 1down) you will hit 50mph in less seconds? Or am I mistaken? Thanks

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thank you for your inquiry Jescut23. It really depends on the bike, where it makes it's power at... lots of factors. Check out this Blog we put together outlining just exactly what is happening: www.chapmoto.com/blog/2011/04/25/adjusting-your-drive-ratio-changing-your-sprockets-for-maximum-performance/ -- Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@JoshNewby84]

The engine is spinning faster for any given wheel speed. In effect you have more wheel torque & better acceleration

[@brandychrisp3621]

Im still pretty confused. I have a 22 grom and i want to run a 14t up front cause i need a little more pep through town but i dont want my gears shorter 1st and second are short enough already. So i add a tooth in the rear?

[@humair_shah]

Klx 250 ... doing trails i constantly need to shift btween 1 and 2 gear as 2nd gear wont give power ... running on stock what changes i should make ... thanks already :)

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hi Humair, sounds like you need more bottom end, you can either step down on the countershaft sprocket or go up in teeth on the rear sprocket. Hope that helps. Thanks for watching.

[@85hotrod5879]

My son has a 49cc pocket bike. It runs two chains. One goes from the 44 tooth sprocket on the rear wheel to a 20 tooth sprocket half way to the engine say mounted in the middle. The second chain goes from the 20 tooth sprocket mounted in the middle to a 21 tooth sprocket mounted to the engine. The chain won't stay on the gear from the middle sprocket to the engine. About a quarter ways through the first rotation it starts slipping and won't pull and you can see the chain isn't lining up with the teeth on the gears. Is it because the chain needs more or less links? Or would you guys have any idea as to what I might need to try?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Not exactly sure. It could be something is not in alignment or bent???

[@kwjr.9569]

What chain do you guys think gives the best longevity for a zx14? For say a heavy commuting grandpa with an SLIGHTLY...SOMETIMES...heavy wrist. With steel sprockets. And average preventive maintenance practices.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Thank you for your inquiry K W, Jr. , I have owned a ZX12R and am very hard on my gear. I ran RK on that bike and was very happy. RK had a 20K mile warranty! Pretty amazing. Check out this RK vid we did earlier this year kzbin.info/www/bejne/eqmbf39jjpp7gq8 - Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@JoshNewby84]

For best longevity? A 530 D.I.D chain, just like it came from the KHI factory.

[@JoshNewby84]

For reference, my 2009 FZ-1 (150HP) currently has 34,000 miles on its factory 530 D.I.D chain & Sunstar sprockets. I regularly measure chain deflection & loaded link length (stretch) & it's nowhere near the spec'd limit yet.

[@billybarnett8942]

Hello my name is Billy what I do is Racing Drag mowers what I run is pulleys well im running a 5 in pulley in the front and a 2 in the back ..runs great and I win first place .. ok but the problem is I slip on take offs from a stop or starts during a drag race . If I go up to a 6 in the front and 3 in the rear will that ratio be close to what I have ? But when I do win it's by a half a hood .. (not much) The setup I have is great but like I said I deal with slip in the rear when taking off .. I do have another mower with a 6 to 3 set up and it dose great and wins but the 5 to 2 ratio setup has a smaller engine in a different class. Winning by a hair lol. Thanks fo any info to help thank you... Billy. P.s they both have same trans and rear tire size but different engines

[@peterpunch8136]

Across it fellas.. very good.

[@kordaleulrich9058]

So I'm building a mower it's going from belt to chain I got a 10 tooth for the engine side and a 24 tooth for the front the ratio is 2.4 would this be good on a big wheel push mower

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello sorry don't have any insight as to what a good for sprocket combination is optimal for a mower.

[@DJMEDIC671]

Does this matter if it’s a 2 stroke vs a 4 stroke? And is it worth gearing down a 2021 ktm 85sx small wheel? She’s a beginner that is hitting double / small triple jumps. She’s 85/90 lbs

[@chaparralmotorsports]

This is something that would take a little more information. Please give our customer service department a call and they can discuss and help you decide what the best option would be.

[@BillHicks-q7b]

have a QRC kart with a Tillotson 225rs going with a 13 tooth front sprocket and a 60 tooth rear, trying to get to that 6300 rpm mark, will this help on top sped running near 38 mph at this time with a 12 front 59 rear hitting 5700 rpm

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, try some combinations on this site: www.gearingcommander.com/

[@miguelvela2200]

I have a 1963 Honda C100 supercub that I rebuilt... It has the original 49cc 4-stroke air cooled engine with a three gear transmission. It has 14 tooth sprocket with a 40 tooth drive sprocket. At top speed I hit about 43 mph. I trying to get to at 50 mph. Should I go with a 15 tooth front sprocket or a 37 tooth drive sprocket??

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, fool around with this calculator, it may help you figure our what you desire: www.gearingcommander.com/

[@JoshNewby84]

Top speed won't change unless the bike is hitting the rev limiter in top gear. Only the engine rpm at top speed will change. The only way to increase top speed is to increase power or decrease drag.

[@drexelsanti8324]

Hi, I have a aprillia Tuono rsv1000r 2007, and I use it for touring in Europe in the twisty roads, my stock is 16/40, and its very lumpy low speeds, I want to smooth that out but I do not want to lose the pull or top end speed People have said 15/42 but my head is mashed now lol any help would be appreciated. Thank you, Drexel

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hi Drexel, changing to a 16/40 setup could suit you well but it's a rather drastic jump. You're on a RSV1000 so the top end shouldn't be to much of an issue. Maybe try smaller change like just a 40 tooth rear and see how it suits you before going all in with the 16/40. Thanks for watching.

[@drexelsanti8324]

@@chaparralmotorsports I like jumping in at the deep end, I am very adaptable, been on so many bikes, so I will just go 16/40, will that still give me amazing pull up the gears?

[@thethiefonthecross9092]

@@drexelsanti8324 I think he meant to say 1542 because you said your stock was 1640

[@BigMikeT42]

I’m in need of new sprockets and chain, I’m a heavier rider and my current setup is 13T up front and 52T in rear. Should I go with a 12T in the front for a little more bottom?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, yeah you may like that change from a 13 to a 12 front sprocket.

[@akeenonwamarah3554]

I'm having a yamaha MT-07 2019 what is the best u would recommend for me

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Depends on what you want out of it?

[@wyethcipriano9486]

Hello, i have a 110cc underbone bike and has a four speed gearbox, i noticed that when in 1st and 2nd gear the rpm gets high really fast like 1st gear=10-20kph then 2nd gear 20-40kph then when i get to 3rd and 4th gear i notice that my rpm is struggling to rise therefore i could only max my bike upto 70-85kph. I usually only ride on flat road/highways. What should i do? Decrease or increase my sprocket size? Thank you in advance, a reply would be very much appreciated

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, try messing around on the Gearing Commander site to see if there's a gearing combo that suit your bike/riding style.

[@ModDemon125cc]

What’s a good size chain for my cheap bike that’s not cheap any more 😂I have a 125cc RFZ but it’s fully upgraded except for the chain n sprockets witch are only modded still 428 sizes I run 17t front and 37t rear witch was for a top speed bike

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Sorry, we don't have any recommendations for that particular bike and setup.

[@ModDemon125cc]

@@chaparralmotorsports thanks anyway

[@silverfish-zx9708]

So I have a r3 and I love going on the high way with it. And I wanna goa but faster which sprocket should I pick for the high way?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, play around with different gearing combinations on this website to see what might suit you best: www.gearingcommander.com/

[@acousticguitars123]

I ride a smaller trail bike its the klx 140L and I want to get change my chain and sprockets so that I can have moderately more low end grunt. Which if I understand correctly that is adding 2 teeth to the rear sprocket?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, yes adding 2 teeth to the rear sprocket should aid in more bottom end.

[@girishg8079]

Best set up for Yamaha XSR700 front and rear- speed and fuel economy

[@chaparralmotorsports]

The easiest way to get better fuel economy and a slightly higher top speed is to go up a tooth in the front OR down 3 teeth in the rear and your RPM's will drop a little at highway speeds.

[@AaaaandYerDhem]

Great breakdown

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Glad you found the video useful. Ride safe.

[@Deenuponhaqq]

So I went from a 14t to a 17t with a 34t rear sprocket I want to go down to 32t will this hurt my top speed or help ?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, check out the Gear Commander site and play with the different gearing combinations to see how they will effect the performance of your bike: www.gearingcommander.com/

[@thethiefonthecross9092]

Why does everyone say if you want to climb large Sandy Hills to go down in the front or go up in the back? I'm trying to get my third gear to have more power it bogs down when I climb huge Sandy Hills so I figured I needed to shorten the third gear hoping going down a tooth in the front and up two tooth in the back I can have more acceleration power in third gear. What do you think of this?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, try fooling around with different combinations on this website, it may provide the info you are looking for: www.gearingcommander.com/

[@m4gpex247]

Hello chaparral i need recommendation, i have 16 tooth on the front and 43 in a rear its stock what do you recommend to get more speed i purchase a 520 sprocket kit the couple days ago i got 15 front and 45 rear it just give me higher rpm but slow speed

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, take a look at this article, specifically the sprocket graphic on the right hand side. It should help you figure out what you need. www.chapmoto.com/blog/2018/06/22/tech-tip-dirt-bike-chains-sprockets-and-gear-ratios/

[@brapperdan]

Off topic but that kx in the background looks like it has a defect in the frame or something

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, I think that's just the way it appears in the video. Thanks for watching.

[@andyperez4255]

Sweet, I need some punch in the bottom end..what kit should I go for..2012 ltz400 Suzuki quad sport

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Drop a tooth in the front or increase 3+ teeth in the rear.

[@andyperez4255]

@@chaparralmotorsports Thank you !!!!

[@jesse5113]

So if i gear up put bigger front or smaller rear sprocket and get higher top speed, if i gear down I put smaller front or bigger rear sprocket and get more torque? Someone please confirm this.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Yes, that is correct. Gearing up will be exactly what you have just described. The bike typically will take more effort to get going, but will roll at lower RPM's and at higher speeds at the top. -- Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@JoshNewby84]

Top speed won't change unless the bike is hitting the rev limiter in top gear. Only the engine rpm at top speed will change. The only way to increase top speed is to increase power or decrease drag.

[@70chgrdreams78]

Hello guys, I couldn’t find the Q&A on the site so I will ask here. Hopefully you get the question. So I have a 2022 Kx450x and ride trails with my boys. So I don’t need to be tearing it up with all that power. If I gear down will it be a little smoother at lower speeds and less twitchiness? Thanks in advance!

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, try going up two teeth in the rear.

[@atrenho2392]

My dirt bike is a Honda 100cc. Every time I ride for at the most 10 mins the chain rips off. I don’t know why it’s just ripping off and I would wonder why. Any help?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, sounds like your chain is not adjusted properly or your chain/sprockets are worn and need to be replaced.

[@tgetzlafftg]

great job explaining the gear ratio with sprockets but does changing tire size matter for the ratio?¿🥺

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, yes changing the rear tire size can affect speed/torque etc Unfortunately we did not discuss this.

[@bernardogartalia9029]

Yes, increasing the tire size affects the torque. If you put a bigger tire, you need to up your rear sprocket 1 or 2 teeth to have the needed torque to move your bike forward

[@okayairsofter5800]

Okay wait so would I put a bigger sprocket in the front if I want more torque when taking off

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, you can change out the front or the rear, or both. If you want more bottom end you would put a smaller sprocket on the front OR put a larger sprocket on the rear.

[@moonlightgraham77]

For a 175 lb rider on a crf 150-who wants to race a 1/2 mile dirt track-flat track-what would you recommend?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Trial and error... No Really. What are you currently running and how does it feel. How do you want that feeling to change? That is what will dictate how much of a change on each sprocket I'd recommend for your application. -- Kyle & the Chap Moto Team

[@Bruce-n3q]

I have a 2019 honda cbr150r with 15t front and 45t back. Is it better to run 17t front and 45t back ?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, it really depends on what you want performance-wise and how/where you want the power.

[@blagojajoncevski2585]

Hi, i have a 50cc super moto with 11x48 gearing. Will bw good if i setup 10x50 and will i lose so much of my top speed?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, we would suggest to just try changing just one sprocket first and see how you like it.

[@markwinters7023]

Hello! I have a 2021 ZX14R with a 16T front and a 42T rear with a 530 chain. Do you know any or any place where I cld get a 16T front on a 42R with a 525 chain? The bike is stretched abt 5 inches, bt I wanted to go with a lighter chain all on a 525 set up. Do u know where I can get this set up frm

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, please give our customer service department a call for some recommendations [phone]. Thank you

[@zachthackxton2463]

I have a wr250f im making street legal. My gearing is really short now and makes for low top speed. Do you have a recommendation for what to run for better hwy speeds?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, play around with the gearing setups on this website. It may help you figure out what might be best for your build: www.gearingcommander.com/

[@fastsailo1745]

For my R15 V4, 155cc (14/48 stock) I need better acceleration without comprising top end too much. What would be a nice sprocket setup for my bike? Thanks.

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, play around with some different scenarios on this website: www.gearingcommander.com/

[@fastsailo1745]

@@chaparralmotorsports Fantastic. Thank you!

[@rockyspartan6476]

I have a ninja 300 i want more initial power . My bike tops speed 190 if 10 to 20 speed reduce its fine but want more power in the initial. Which should i do please can u help

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, take a look at this article, specifically the chart: www.chapmoto.com/blog/2018/06/22/tech-tip-dirt-bike-chains-sprockets-and-gear-ratios/

[@olid9018]

I'm planning on moving 1 teeth down in the front and 1 tooth down on the rear (don't ask why). Do I need a shorter chain for this or can I stick with my the factory 112 links?

[@chaparralmotorsports]

Hello, when you make the sprocket change, check your chain for excessive wear and then check the length and how much adjustability you have. You may be able to shorten your existing chain length if needed.