Chainring size questions

[Guest]

I notice on more modern bikes that the chainring on the wheel is usually smaller in diameter. I'm wondering what gearing combo should give me close to the same RPM range I have now. Any pros or cons to going with a larger gear in the front and decreasing the one in the rear?

[salty_monk]

None unless you have chain to swingarm clearance issues (usually where the chain passes over the swingarm pivot) or front sprocket to case clearance issues after you've fitted them...

Dan

[SqDancerLynn1]

Today's chains are stronger than they were 30 years ago. Most of the time it is done for tire clearance on a GS or just to save some weight

[Steve]

I notice on more modern bikes that the chainring on the wheel is usually smaller in diameter. I'm wondering what gearing combo should give me close to the same RPM range I have now. Any pros or cons to going with a larger gear in the front and decreasing the one in the rear?

A larger gear in the front will reduce your drive ratio about three times faster than a smaller gear in the rear. (Adding one tooth up front is about the same as dropping three teeth in the rear.) Doing that will reduce your engine speed for any given road speed, but it may also pull your engine down out of its powerband, requiring you to downshift more if you are in need of a power burst for passing.

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