Hey Folks... I'm wanting to compile a list of sprocket combinations that we know for a fact leave the rear axle in the proper adjustment position in it's slot; and also don't rub anywhere.

We know for a fact that the common:

17t / 43t   (t=tooth) sprocket combo works as many folks have it.

17t / 45t   is supposed to work ok; becaue Savage Greg used it. (Wish I
                had now too; because the 17/43 is too high for me.

I know someone had a problem with a 16t / ??? because he couldn't get the axle to line up in the adjustment zone.

And someone mentioned (I think it was) a 15t front sprocket being small enough that he was having trouble with the chain slapping the swing arm where it passes over.

So it would be nice if we had a list of all combinations we KNOW to work, and which ones to stay away from.

I'm wanting to do some experimenting with all ranges of gearing and need the info to keep me from buying sprockets that are of no use to me! Anyone's help on getting such a list together would be greatly appreciated!

TIA. John

BurnPgh wrote on 07/02/09 at 23:51:21:


Thanks a lot... That's a big help BurnPgh. At least I know now that SOME 16t front combos will work, and 16/43, might be the next thing I try, instead of taking the rear sprocket up to 45 like Gregg. One tooth down on the front is actually a little lower than two teeth up on the rear! Sounds about right to me with my big old rear tire! Eventually, I'd like to take one to a low-geared extreme like 15/50 if possible. That would red-line at about 80mph, but 0-70mph should be one helluva ride!  

BurnPgh wrote on 07/03/09 at 00:15:12:


I've had plenty of MX bikes, and even an old Kawa H2 that taught me all about the potential for flipping over!  

Serowbot wrote on 07/03/09 at 08:54:12:


I did the same thing before the chain conversion was worked out (got the tallest profile tire that would fit) and thus raised my gearing considerably. Not sure I would have done that had I  known that the chain conversion was going to work out, as I'm certain that the BIG FAT rear and TALL skinny front tire combo doesn't handle nearly as well as having front and rear tires which are close to the same size/profile; with the rear only being only slightly taller/fatter.

Yeah, most of my MX bikes were 21" on the front, but that is needed in the ruts on dirt to keep your tire from being sucked down in the holes!  

And most dirt bikes are pretty fun on the street; but you have to get used to the way those big knobby tires will suddenly let go when you're leaned way over on the pavement.

Back to the main subject of my original post: I'm surprised that we've only come up with 4 chain drive combinations which have been tried by someone so far. I thought there were LOTS of conversions out there, and expected that many people had tried lots of the potential combinations... Maybe not... ?