[dchavez7]

what's the general feeling out there concerning front sprocket size? i've been reading that going to i believe a 15T increases low speed performance a great deal.

 

[Guest]

What do you have now? Smaller front will give a lower final ratio, more torque, less top end speed.

 

[tmronin]

i just went from a 15t to a 14t on my 900s...wow, what a difference. no more chugging and shuddering at the lights in the city.

haven't taken it out on the highway yet, so i don't know what it feels like at 80mph cruising....

cheers!
steve

 

[Mark1305]

I went from a 15/39 to a 15/41 which is a slightly smaller change than going to a 14/39.

I prefer sticking with the 15T up front because the smaller radius of a 14T can potentially accelerate chain wear and wear on the slider on top of the swing arm. Opinions are divided on this issue, but I tend to go with the conservative side to minimize the potential for wear.

Either way, I don't think you'll see a significant drop in fuel economy or top speed. This has been discussed well in other threads so I'll just go with the short version: If the stock gearing doesn't allow a specific individual bike to reach it's peak hp rpm in top gear, going to a lower gearing may actually increase top speed. It depends on the state of tune for that particular bike. In reality top speed will probably remain very nearly the same. Driveability at lower speeds will definitely improve as many folks have attested to.

 

[dchavez7]

i misspoke (or mistyped, as it were) on my original. i meant to say drop to a 14t from my current 15t. i appreciate the feedback.

 

[Guest]

I went from a 15-39 combo to a 15-41 for the same reasons as Mark1305. I think I may try a 42, just cause I'm bored.
I still get 40mpg. ;D
Check to see if you have enough chain for a larger rear sprocket, as I had to add links to go up 2 teeth!

 

[ScottRNelson]

dmcduc,

I'm assuming you have the stock gearing of 15-39. Go ahead and buy the 14 and install it. You'll be very happy with the results. I ran 15-41 until I wore out my first chain (5% drop in gearing), then went with 14-39 after that (7% overall). I consider the gearing to be just right with either of those two setups.

The 14-tooth front was only about $20.00 from the local dealer. Just do it.

====Edit====
If I were better at proofreading I wouldn't have to go back and fix spelling mistakes. :-[

 

[dchavez7]

you are correct in that i'm running 15-39 presently. thanks for the feedback. going to try the 14t up front. thanks.

 

[Guest]

Is it easier to switch the front sprocket than the rear? It would seem that way...I know, probably dumb question...

 

[ScottRNelson]

You can change the front sprocket without putting the bike on a stand. To change the rear, you have to remove the whole rear wheel first. I've done a rear but not a front, so I have no firsthand experience in how much easier a front is than a rear.

 

[Guest]

thanks scott, can you or anybody else make any recomendations as to where to purchase a 14t?? would most dealers have this in stock??

 

[ScottRNelson]

You can always check your local dealer, but it's probably easier to just order it here: http://www.ca-cycleworks.com/shop/catalog/ducati/chain.html

At least you'll be sure to get the right part for your bike.