Hi all,
Well, at 19,700 miles, it finally seems time to replace my lovely 1991 GS500E's drive chain and both sprockets.
I'm considering either a 520-110 Tsubaki Gold Alpha o-ring chain or a D.I.D. Pro series o-ring chain -- leaning toward the Tsubaki because I've always had good luck with them. Anyone else have recommendations? I went with a non-o-ring chain the first time and I was not happy with its constant stretching, so it's back to o-rings and heavier construction for me.
I'm staying with the stock rear 39T sprocket but am wondering if I should go to a smaller countershaft (front) sprocket. The stock size is 16T. What would a reduction to 15T do besides reduce the bike's fuel mileage?
Also I am looking at JT steel replacement sprockets. Anyone used them or have other recommendations?
I already did a search and wanted new info.
Thanks, and stay warm. It's finally getting cold here in PA this week.
Best wishes,
Todd

The gas mileage with a 15T is negligable...  Maybe a couple MPG...

You get a slight increase in "at the wheel" power with a 15T...

You can read more about it here:  http://cgi.stanford.edu/~sanjayd/gs500/Upgrades/Sprocket

Ive got a 15t makes a world of difference. you lose some top end but when did a GS every take the trophie in top end speed? lol its a mean st. machine with the 15t you will be very happy and surprised at the difference.

If you don't like buzzing around at high rpm you probably wouldn't like it. I actually wished mine was geared slightly higher for highway riding. But as just mentioned some people like lower gearing.

Quote from: DerekNC on January 10, 2007, 06:48:43 PM
If you don't like buzzing around at high rpm you probably wouldn't like it. I actually wished mine was geared slightly higher for highway riding. But as just mentioned some people like lower gearing.

thats why you put a good exhuast system so you dont hear the buzz of the engine but  much rather the nice exhuast notes of the GS. I really wouldnt say highway riding is all that bad , infact highway riding is much more enjoyable because I can accelerate alot quicker in 6 gear without downs. but I know some people like cruising at a few thousand rpms.