- Thu Nov 20, 2014 8:19 pm
#41872
I changed the sprocket on my 2012 B5 efi so wouldn't like to comment on the effect of fitting one on an iron barrel, there are plenty of owners who may have done this to the older bikes.
I know most bikes will pull a 1 tooth larger sprocket than standard as manufacturers will always compromise on speed and power to find a middle ground suitable for everyone.
On my B5 it seems a 1 tooth sprocket has changed engine rpm by 5mph, removing most of the drive train led vibration, it is a lot more comfortable to ride which suits me as I often do trips of 100 miles or more and don't need a vibration white finger to spoil my day!
I did fit a 1 link longer chain (102) instead of the 101 chain that was originally fitted, but looking at it, a 101 chain would still have worked as the snail cam adjusters are 1/2 way round the cam from fully forward so I may yet remove a link if initial chain stretch requires it.
Top speed is around the same as original as the B5 runs out of puff at the top end (around 85mph for the B5), although the wind resistance from the fairing and leg-shields will not help here, however cruising at my normal fast A road/motorway speed of 65mph is much better and it feels like the Bullet will maintain this speed all day without vibration or engine stress.
One downside is that in town (30mph) I now have use a lower gear which equates to more fuel in the long run, but, I think that will change when I can afford to do the next step and fit an EFI short exhaust and a K&N air filter then in a year or so maybe a power commander as I have read good reports from those that have done this modification in the Americas.
Excuse my ramblings
give it a go if that's what you want to do, the good thing is if fitting a larger sprocket is not suited to your riding style then it is a mornings job to put the original chain and sprocket back on reverting back to standard
johno
