changing gearing on my 550mz...

[RigRoller]

so im thinking of changing the sprockets on my mz...it came 15/50...im thinking of 16/42.....the top end speed is crap now...ive read all the posts here about going to the 42...and that sounds like what im looking for...but im thinking the front sprocket needs to be changed too...should i go down one tooth to a 14, or up one tooth to a 16....or leave it alone and stay at a 15......this is my daily rider, rain or shine.....also what about changing to a 520 chain and sprockets...or will the strenght of the 530 chain be better...

Thanx for all input..
J

[BassCliff]

Greetings and Salutations!!

Hi Mr. RigRoller,

The GS550 really needs to spin up. If you change the gearing too much it will fall on its face.

The 530 chain is the standard for these old bikes. Many have converted their bikes to use the 530. Use high quality chains and sprockets and maintain them properly for best results.

Here are a couple of gear ratio calculators:

http://www.sprocketcalculator.com/

http://www.vmar.com/java/gear.html

And now here is the S.W.A.G. Read it, learn it, live it, love it.

If you are here you probably have a 30 year old motorcycle that needs about 20 years worth of maintenance. You'll find all kinds of helpful tips, procedures, manuals, etc, in the links below. Let's get started.

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[Nessism]

I recommend keeping it simple and just go to the 16T on front and leave the back alone. The rpm on the freeway will drop a useful amount, but first gear will still be usable.

[mike_of_bbg]

+1. My 550LZ has 16/50 gears now. It takes a bit of the edge off on the highway. I wouldn't go any taller. 16/42 would be about a 26% drop in torque from stock.

550s are at their best at around 10kRPM

I recommend keeping it simple and just go to the 16T on front and leave the back alone. The rpm on the freeway will drop a useful amount, but first gear will still be usable.