Multi 1200s 2013 I have replaced the front sprocket from the 15 tooth to a 14 tooth. Did not change the chain or the rear sprocket - new setup is F14 x R40 x 108 (530) links. Bike has been transformed and I am still trying to get used to the new gearing. It feels much better but I think I could be happier with a 15 front and 42 rear - just to take it a little bit down. Question: Length of chain. Looking around some suggest no change ie stay with 108 and others suggesting 110. Gearing Commander recommends 108 for F14xR40, F15xR42 I am not an expert on chains so not sure which way to go or just split the difference and go for 109 - if such a thing is possible. Also using a longer chain will that reduce the adjustment range?
108 should be fine, and i have so far got 15000 miles from my current chain, only 4 adjustments needed, so dont worry about that aspect. Just look after it well.
Been running the smaller from sprocket for 17000 miles. No problem whatsoever and a nice and cheap mod.
110 links or your ride height will increase, which for me was a good inch higher in the seat. With 110, you sit in roughly the same place as 108 on standard gearing.
@bradders - glad you pointed that out. Never realised that it will change the height and thats the last thing I want as I can just touch the ground now. I guess this is because the 108 chain being on a bigger sprocket will pull the swing arm forward and up - am I right on this?
Yes. It brings it more towards 6 o’clock with the 108, where as the 110 puts back to closer to 5 o’clock. I did both, as I tried the 108 but felt it was too tall so bought a new chain. May be that it’s my imagination, I didn’t check ride height before/after, but the 110 seems to lower a fraction from standard which I was happy with. Probably just that I went from 108 tho.
109 is not possible, the number refers to the amount of links, IE, rivet heads, to have 109 would give half a chain plate, hence, chain counts are even numbers.
Not with this avatar but tend to have a lot of senior moments lately... and I am not budging from this excuse
