FJ 1200 Gear ratio

[Meraco]

Hello,

It is time for me to replace my chain and sprockets for the FJ. It currently has a 17/40 ratio. However I was thinking of reducing the top end RPM at highway speed.

I was curious if anyone has any experience or insight about my trying a 17/38 ratio.

Thanks

[Pat Conlon]

I recommend a 18/40 ratio. The larger chain wrap on the 18 tooth countershaft sprocket is beneficial to your chain.

[FJmonkey]

I agree with Pat, 18T is easier on the chain.

[Bones]

Go 18/38. Relaxed long legged touring with still plenty of power for overtaking. 100kph @ 3500 rpm.

[Millietant]

I went with 18:40 for about 24,000 miles and loved it, but when I V replaced my chain and sprockets again, I decided to go a bit firmer and opted for 18:30. Now I've had that for a good few thousands of miles, I'd recommend that is the best option for your needs.

It's a bit e relaxed again at Highway speeds but still has more than of the overtaking power the FJ is legendary for 

[Meraco]

Go 18/38. Relaxed long legged touring with still plenty of power for overtaking. 100kph @ 3500 rpm.

Since the consensus is to have the front end at 18, and I am already committed to the 38 at the back. It looks like Ill be trying your suggested configuration.

Currently I am getting 90 kph @ 3500 with the 17/40. I like the idea of bumping up to 100kph at the same RPM.

[Millietant]

I went with 18:40 for about 24,000 miles and loved it, but when I V ("V" should not be there) replaced my chain and sprockets again, I decided to go a bit firmer (should read "further") and opted for 18:30 (should read 18:38). Now I've had that for a good few thousands of miles, I'd recommend that is the best option for your needs.

It's a bit e (should read "more") relaxed again at Highway speeds but still has more than ("enough" was missing here) of the overtaking power the FJ is legendary for 

I shouldn't type on my phone, without my glasses.....when I read my comments on my computer later, I realise how rubbish they are...and it's too late to correct them.
 

[fj1289]

I resemble that remark!

[Meraco]

I now have the 18/38 installed. Took it for the first ride yesterday and the specs you guys gave was spot on.

Was doing 90/kmh @ 3,000 RPM.

And the lower gear torque doesn't seem all that affected. It's still punchy.

Now I need to clean the bike up.

Thanks everyone for the advice.

[gumby302ho]

I am running 18\39 because at the time RPM was out of the 38 tooth option, my 86 is showing
3100rpm at 100km\hr on the clocks.

[86FJNJ]

Is the speed on the FJ1200 registered from the front wheel, meaning gear changes don't effect the MPH display....or does changing the gearing make your speedo inaccurate?

[FJmonkey]

Speed is measured from the front wheel on stock FJs.