Since I rarely ride two up and we don't have any hills over here, I'd like to change the gearing of the Model 50 slightly.
I avoid 100 km/h (say 60 mph) roads, as it just feels like I'm mistreating the engine. Instead, I try to take backroads wherever I can, but I still need to tackle many miles of 80 km/h (50 mph) provincial roads and even at that speed, the engine feels just out of its comfort zone.
So I want to go up one tooth in sprocket size, just to calm the engine a bit. It doesn't need much. However, should I change the engine sprocket (easiest fix) or the gearbox sprocket? I've only ever known unit construction engines, where there was no need for a choice. Now there is.
The most logical one seems the engine sprocket, but I miss some insight why it should be the other one?
Either will work fine and…
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First of all, have you…
First of all, have you checked which sprockets are actually fitted? The previous owner may have fitted non standard parts!
If you change the engine sprocket, you may have to fit a primary chain with a half link (if it hasn't already got one), the rear chain has more adjustment available.
John
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A gearbox sprocket sounds…
A gearbox sprocket sounds more sensible after your considerations, Robert. Though there will be quite a bit more work involved.
To answer your question John, I've got:
43 rear
17 gearbox
42 clutch
18 engine
I've changed the primary chain once and recall having to use a half link. Now I think of it, there's not much room for adjusting left, even with a new chain.
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Either will work fine and there will be unexpected bonuses. An engine sprocket change will affect the Kickstart to engine ratio and make big twins a little easier to kick over. A box change will make the sprocket more efficient and reduce wear on it and the chain .