Sprocket questions

[firecracker22]

I'm thinking about getting different sprockets, but am not quite sure what to look for. The teeth on my sprockets now are starting to hook so they will need to be replaced soon anyway. I think I want to gear it a little lower, but don't know whether to change the front or rear sprockets. I ride probably 75% woods, some of it kind of tight. I'm also kind of slow. :think:

Who has tried what and how did it work?
Do I have to buy a new chain too? I know I have heard people say they all have to be replaced together, but what are the wear signs to look for on the chain?
What brands does everyone recommend?

 

[kathy127]

Yes, you should replace chain and sprockets together. You can measure the chain, link to link type to see wear or just pull the chain off the back end of the rear sprocket. You should not be able to pull it so far that you can see 1/2 of the teeth in the chain where you pull.
I put a 46 rear tooth on mine and you do not need to shift nearly so much as with stock. and it pulls just fine. But I have an mxc.
Hey!!

 

[firecracker22]

I'd always heard that you had to replace them together, I guess I was looking for a reason to cheap out. Oh well. It'll have to wait, I have to get license plates for it first and that will entail a little bit of sales tax I never paid when the bike was new . . . my own fault!

Anyway, I think I may try a 13t front sprocket to see what it is like.

Thanks!

 

[Jaybird]

Sharla,
The reason your sprockets are wearing is due to the chain growing from wear. If you keep a good eye on your chain, and replace it before it reaches 1.5% elongation from new, you can keep your sprockets and not have to change them next time.

Your bike comes with a 14/50 set-up (3.57:1 ratio)
I recommend trying a 13/52 set-up (4:1 ratio) I think you will be very happy with the results.

I can help you futher if you e-mail me.

 

[Layton]

I believe the 2001 200 EXC comes with a 14/48 sprocket set.

 

[RAH RAH]

dropping a tooth on the front is about like adding 3.5 to the rear. If your stock gearing is okay with you just get you another front sprocket for riding in the tighter stuff then you can put your stock one back on for those faster hauls. Its also a lot cheaper to experiment with the front.
Always replace your chain and sprockets together. A good o ring for sure. Maintain it regularly and it will last you a long time.
Get someone to show you the proper tension on the KTM. I''ve heard of how picky they need to be.
I know a little too loose is better than a little too tight!!!!!!!

 

[Jaybird]

I'm fairly certain that most 200 exc's (98-04) come with 14/50 gearing...perhaps Sharla can tell us what's on her bike.

I have provided a tutorial on how to properly adjust a chain for tension (make and model makes no difference...KTM's need to be tensioned exactly the same as any other bike)
http://www.best-motorcycle-chain-lube.com/Chain Maint.htm

Only reason you hear to ALWAYS change out chain and sprockets together is becasue most folks don't really understand how to properly check their chain for wear. It's usually too late when they see damage to the sprocket teeth.

 

[Tony Eeds]

Jay: My 2001 200MXC is 14/48. Regardless, I best Sharla would benefit from bumping up a couple of teeth on the rear.

Sharla: I'm not trying to talk around you, rather answer the questions raised. Kathy is correct, if you can see half of your sprocket (assuming proper tension) it is time to change the chain. Jay is correct as well. You can change the chain without changing the sprockets (assuming you catch it in time).

I moved from 14/50 to 13/52 on my 400 and it made a WORLD of difference.

My 200 is capable of lifting the front end in 2nd, 3rd or 4th, often breaks loose in 2nd and usually breaks loose in 1st. Raising the final ratio has the effect of tightening up the gear spread (if I remember correctly) and therefore you will rev out faster and have to shift more often. Additionally, your top speed will be lower. You tend to put more power to the ground so you will benefit from short shifting the bike and staying in the lower portion of the power band as apposed to always running wide open.

I haven't looked into changing the final ratio of my 200 as I am much more comfortable with the power characteristics of a 2 stroke. We will see once I have the 200 dialed into my riding characteristics.

 

[RAH RAH]

Check and see if your chain is wore out 1st. If the sprockets are starting to hook then the chain is most likely well worn and "in need" of replacement. If you can pull the chain off of the rear sprocket when it properly adjusted and you can still see a half of the sprocket its almost time to shoot. You can check the little rollers between the links to see how much slop they have accumalated. I also check it by trying to rotate the wheel using the top and bottom of the chain at the rear sprocket. that will show how much wear youve got between the chain and sprockets. When they are new they dont have as much slop.
replace them together before you buy some fresh sprockets with hooks in them.

 

[HobRoff]

While they are expensive I recommend Krause sprockets and chains, you won't have to buy another set for a very long time! plus they have a tech department to assist in Q&A, hope this doesn't qaulify as spam, no affiliation just a happy customer!
http://www.sidewindersprockets.com/mcspkt.htm

Or was that Spacely Space Sprockets where George Jetson slaves? either/or

Been wanting to make it over to ride the Mx track but have not been able, now off to work in the Sawtooths until Sept. 15th, back in time for Dirt Week! gotta see about that.

Take Care

 

[firecracker22]

I am fairly sure my gearing is 13/48. After this weekend (TIGHT goat trails! Dang) I definitely will go for a larger rear. Should I get a 49 or a 50?