Sprocket fix?

Question

I've been told if I change my sprocket on the back of my 86' GS450 (front NT:16, rear NT:42) to a smaller one (NT:41or40) for helpin' out the higher end on the freeway that I'd have too buy a new chain etc. But before I do all of that, what I'm saying is, couldn't I use the chain slack adjuster on the rear tire to make up for the difference it would change my chain. My ride is old, but it's clean ol' school chrome and nothing wrong with the ride at all. No, I don't need a bigger bike or a newer one. If you saw the earlier post..sprocket help...that would help you out and maybe me too. I don't mind buying new front n' rear sprockets + a chain, but could I do this to see if it would work before I spend all that cash. Smaller sprockets do help on some bikes, just need a little input for a littl_rida.

Answer 1

you might initially be able to use the chain adjuster, but what will happen if you need to adjust your chain in the future and have no space to move the tire back when it stretches out and the sprockets wear a little? i would dry fit as you were stating but compare both, original chain length and a shorter chain length, before pressing the chain together. don't just cut it short first, it might be too short and then you'd have another problem. good luck.

Answer 2

there is a simple answer to this...

going to a one tooth smaller rear sprocket will slightly affect your overall gear ratio and add a little on your top speed (if the engine has the power to pull it) along with taking a little away from your power upon take off...

on to the meat of your question.  by going one tooth smaller on the rear does not necessarily mean you need a new chain but you will possibly have to take a couple of links out unless you can adjust the existing to the proper tension with the chain adjusters on the back of the swing arm.  simply get the new rear sprocket and install, adjust the tensioners and if needed, take 2 links out (have to take out two at a time due to the way the chain is made up) and likewise readjust the tensioners accordingly.

yes, it is advisable to replace both sprockets & chain when the sprockets get worn or the chain gets stretched but not absolutely mandatory.  typically speaking, they all wear out about the same time ... but if merely changing a sprocket to get a different gear ratio, simply replace the sprocket to achieve what you are trying to accomplish...

also, check for wear on the other sprocket and side-to-side play on the chain for wear / stretching ... replace as needed for safety reasons...

Answer 3

HELLO

I CAN SEE NO REASON OTHER THAN TAKING ENOUGH SLACK. I THINK YOU WOULD HAVE TO TAKE OUT A FEW LINKS AS WELL. DO YOU HAVE A JOINTLESS CHAIN OR A SPLITTER?

Answer 4

if you replace your rear sprocket, you would be strongly advised to fit a new chain as the pitch on the old chain widens as the chain stretches. As you put a smaller sprocket on the chain adjustment will be further back anyway.