Well I wasn't sure if this was a mod or accessory, but I opted for performance because of the obvious, it makes my bike go faster!
I went from a 17 tooth front to a 19 tooth, you all know how I like testing what I sell as often as I can. Well, I just got back from a 30 mile ride. It's 32 degrees out tonight but that didn't dissuade me from a ride.
According to my sprocket folks, 1 tooth up on the front is equal to 2 on the rear. Since I went up by 2 teeth that is the same as 4 on the back.
Starting out in first gear from stops, I could tell a little difference, but nothing that felt detrimental or anywhere close to lugging the engine.
She ran through all the gears with the same spunk as with the 17 tooth. Where I really noticed the difference? Instead of reaching for the "sixth gear", I kept forgetting to shift into 5th! Too used to what the engine "feels like" at 70. Shift into 5th at 75 is like going into over drive!
So next, I did a speed test. I ran it up on a straight stretch of four lane including a steep up hill grade which usually drains the speed out of the bike at speed, this time? I was still gaining momentum at 100 mph.
After hitting the straights again, I pinned the throttle and watched her climber faster than I have had her at before. I sailed past 104 with no problem and hit 110 with plenty of throttle and with still room to grow. After I backed off I realized that I had not yet hit 5th gear! I have no doubt that 115 or 120 are not out of reach. Biggest thing about this was the engine didn't feel like it was topped out, which it normally does at that speed.
With the relaxed engine RPM's at highway speeds, I fully expect to see an improvement in fuel economy. I'll report more on that and how she performs on the hills of Duluth (Like the San Fransisco hills) first warm day I get to make a trip up north. As of right now? I think it is a nice touch and did very well tonight.
eddy
