overthinking under gearing

[andyoutandabout]

Time for new chain and sprockets - so what does the think tank say?
I really like the standard 17/41 on my 86 fj. However, I have noticed that the chain can catch the swing arm plastic guides so imagine using an 18 front would help that bit out.

To get the same sort of ratios - the files indicate that a 44 rear would do the job.

Question one - does the 110 link fit this 18/44 set up?

If not,

Question two - is anyone using a 17/42?
I'd like a bit more pick-up, but don't want too much buzziness on the freeway.

[the fan]

Andy I cant really help but I really like The Gearing Commander site for figuring these types of questions:http://www.gearingcommander.com/

Just make sure to se up the "select units" area. It deaults to Metric which seems to confuse folks...

[Yamifj1200]

"I'd like a bit more pick-up, but don't want too much buzziness on the freeway."



Andy if you undergear you will gain on acceleration at the same time you will increase the rpm's on the highway making it feel even more buzzy.  I dont think the 17-44 combo will work with the stock chain...

Eric M

[andyb]

I ran 17/42 when I first got my bike, then put the yzf600 wheel on it, which shortens the gearing a bit more.  Then I went to 17/40.  Of them all, 17/40 has been the best in terms of smoothness and speed, it's actually a little easier to launch than the stiffer gears.

The other thing that's noticable is if you use a stock length chain, 17/42 is a slightly shorter wheelbase than 17/40 will be.  It's enough that you can just feel the difference.