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Main Area => General GS500 Discussion => Topic started by: trojanone1 on March 25, 2013, 10:34:30 PM

Title: confused about sprockets
Post by: trojanone1 on March 25, 2013, 10:34:30 PM
Hi, I have been reading on this forum about 15t front sprockets and how it'll give a little bit better acceleration. I have a 1996 with 8000 miles. If I get the 15t sprocket do I need to replace the chain or not? And what brand is best? I also read some brands need a spacer? Sorry if this is a repeat thread but I'm a little confused lol
Title: Re: confused about sprockets
Post by: jestercinti on March 26, 2013, 08:42:58 AM
JT Sprockets are a good brand.  The spacer flange was added in the 1990s.  1993 I think.  Do a search.  Replace the chain, yes.

EK, Parts Unlimited, or DID makes a good chain.  Make sure it's O-Ring or X-Ring.  Stock is DID 110 links 520-type.

Don't get a cheap chain.  Do you want that breaking at highway speeds?
Title: Re: confused about sprockets
Post by: gsJack on March 26, 2013, 08:49:35 AM
No need to change the chain or anything else to put on the 15T front sprocket.  The first GSs had a narrow sprocket without a hub on it and it was changed to a wider sprocket around 93-94 so you want one with a hub for your 96.  I had a 15T on my 97 but see no need for it on my 02 with the 3 circuit carbs.  The JT sprockets are reasonably priced and popular here at gstwins but there are many brands out there some costing twice as much.  There are also some very cheap ones that don't last very long.  Some put on a spacer when running a early model sprocket on a later model bike but there is no problem getting a 15T one with the hub.
Title: Re: confused about sprockets
Post by: trojanone1 on March 26, 2013, 08:57:15 AM
OK thanks I was wondering why I needed to with only 8000 miles on the bike. Where would u guys recommend getting the sprocket from? I do 99.9% of my online shopping on amazon and seen JT sprockets on there
Title: Re: confused about sprockets
Post by: gsJack on March 26, 2013, 09:02:55 AM
Can't beat that:

http://www.amazon.com/JT-Sprockets-JTF516-15-Steel-Sprocket/dp/B0031743MU
Title: Re: confused about sprockets
Post by: trojanone1 on March 26, 2013, 09:37:24 AM
Yup that's what I was looking at. Why does it show 4 different sprockets?