14-52 on a 08 FE450?

EddieFE · Aug 31, 2010

Hi,I've recently bought an 08 FE450 (old type) and after a couple of rides find that lowering the gearing would help the riding I do. It is currently on the stock 14 - 48.
I have read a few posts that suggest that running a 13 front sprocket will mean rapid wear on the chain slider so think that 14 - 52 will be a better option.

Has anyone had any problems with the chain guide or anything else running the big rear sprocket. Any ideas on the amount of links needed?

Thanks

fe600racer · Aug 31, 2010

just watch the bolt under the swinging arm that holds the chain protector on as it wears and gets loose even on standard gearing.

PacelineAddict · Sep 24, 2010

I bought an '03/'04 FE501 previously used off-road that came with a 14 / 52 set-up... lively is an understatement in terms of acceleration, especially as I was using the bike exclusively for tarmac riding.

I'd say you wont go far wrong with that gearing for off-road/green lane use on STD wheels.

If you want to try before you buy, I have an almost new KTM 52 T sprocket that you can have free of charge, if this helps. There again, you'd need to be in the UK and I didn't check your location before tying this reply! LOL.

Anyways, good luck!

PacelineAddict · Sep 24, 2010

Forgot to mention... there were no obvious wear issues (other than can be expected), to the guide or slider... in fact, you'll keep the chain a safer distance away from the swing arm running with a 52 T rear.

Can't remember the exact number of chain links for the 14/52 set-up, but I do recall removing two links from the RK O-ring chain as orded. You can rotate the adjustiers in the swingarm in any case (they're designed that way), so the range of adjustment:chain length is quite wide.

Don't forget to leave adequate slack in the chain... overtightening (to road bike tolerances), will wear/snap the chain... there speaks the voice of experience! Lesson learned!

Scott · Sep 24, 2010

13/48 seemed like the optimal gearing when I had my 08. I didnt have any issues with pad wear.

EddieFE · Sep 24, 2010

Thanks for the replys
I've just bought a 13 front to trial prior to buying new chain and sprockets should be a lot better for me than the standard 14-48.
Sunday is my first day off in 3 weeks so I'm really looking forward to testing it out. Just my luck to have a stinking cold. I am more :bounce: than :bounce3: but

all the same.

LadyBerg · Nov 29, 2010

FWIW I have been running a 13 F and 48 R and like it just fine. It has enough snap for this gal and doesn't lug too bad in the tight stuff as my riding improved

over time.

I'd love to try 14:52 but my setup included a very sweet 48 tooth Ironman sprocket so I'm reluctant to change it or buy another one since they;re so pricy.

mud400 · Nov 30, 2010

13/48 and 14/52 are about the same as far as ratios go...... IIRC one front tooth equals about 3 rear.

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14-52 on a 08 FE450?

EddieFE

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