choosing a new chain/sprockets

[Blueman]

Hello everyone, I am currently using a 15T front sprocket and 39T rear sprocket however i want to either put a 14T front sprocket on OR a 41T rear sprocket.  I have heard that if i put a 14T front sprocket on then i will need a new chain because ill need less links in the chain. I dont believe my current chain has a master link so i cant remove any links in the chain.

If i keep my 15T front and put a 41T rear, will I need a new chain or will it work fine because the back sprocket is larger?  I am not looking for top speed, just more power in my lower gears.  What brand of chain and what type should I be looking for?  Any recommendations?

[gsJack]

Here's the ones I've calculated:

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=44849.msg502495#msg502495

And the calculator if you want to play with it:

http://tsubaki.com.au/tsscs/chain_length.htm

Looks like it might be OK with stock chain if it isn't too worn with 14/39T.  Chains have to be changed in 2 link increments and a 108 link chain might be too tight although I think it 's been done with both 108 and 110 stock chains.  You can subtract calculated center distances to see how much axle will move with sprocket change.  Calculated center distances are based on unworn new chain.

[GSnoober]

Instructions on how to use the chain length calculator are in the WIKI:

http://wiki.gstwins.com/index.php?n=Upgrades.Sprocket

Read the section titled "Calculating Required Chain Length"

Let us know if you have other questions, GSjack knows all and tells all!

[Big Rich]

Blueman, if you install a 14t front sprocket, you won't need a different length chain: your rear axle would just slide back in the swingarm to take up the slack in the chain. And a 41t rear sprocket may or may not require a new chain.....depending how far back your rear axle currently is.

That being said, generally you need to change out all 3 parts at once. A worn out sprocket used with a new chain will destroy the chain and vice versa.

[Blueman]

alright that stuff helps a lot. One thing left though, which brand/type of chain is popular and about how much would it cost. The only ones i have been able to find are Renthol ( http://www.amazon.com/gp/part-finder/slide-show/2007/Suzuki/GS500F/ref=au_pf_cr_1?ie=UTF8&carId=001&partsNode=404781011 ) and cost at least $80

[robfriedenberger]

As for chains go I suggest a DID 520VX2,


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[GSnoober]

IIRC, GSjack recently mentioned using a generic brand chain, but not sure where he gt it from (Dennis Kirk?), which saved him a few bux ($20 maybe?); he seemed satisfied with the mileage and durability, let's hope he sees this and provides an update. The GS needs a good chain, but you don't need to spend a small fortune to get one.

[gsJack]

Used mostly DID 0-ring and then one RK-XSO type and last time I put on a Parts Unlimited chain from Dennis Kirk.  Seems to be holding up as well as the others with 14-15k on it so far.  About $63 now.

https://www.denniskirk.com/520-o-ring-chain.p110471.prd/110471110.sku?_requestid=558695

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v443/jcp8832/GSbrakechainlog_zps1b8c96a9.jpg

[azbo]

That being said, generally you need to change out all 3 parts at once. A worn out sprocket used with a new chain will destroy the chain and vice versa.

@ Big Rich, sorry to jump in on this thread... I have always been told this too, never replace one, always do chain and sprocket together. But, if (for whatever reason) you need to replace your chain, what if the sprockets look ok visually? I would imagine that any sprocket wear would be quite easy to spot; if there is wear, replace of course, but if they look ok would you change them anyway?

Cheers

[robfriedenberger]

Typically I think the though is that as the sprockets wear, the gaps in the teeth get wider, thus wears funny on the new chains, GS jack only changed his front sprockets with his chain replacements which makes the most sense to me any ways.

But really at the end of the day $30-40 for a new set front and rear isn't going to break the bank over 15-20K so why not. I just changed mine about 1000 Miles ago. My thoughts are do it once and do it right.

[azbo]

Yeah, it's not a great cost really is it, and makes sense to put in at the same time I guess - I'm quite new to bike maintenance, but loving every second of it.

Lots to learn

[robfriedenberger]

A haynes book is a good place to start, along with this forum. I wouldn't be able to afford to ride if I had to pay some one to work on my bike.....Second though I could I just wouldn't have all the tools I have  I have a slight tool addiction....