I don’t care about the top end speed, worried that a 17 front may make it too lively. Though I think I read the RS has 17/44 which is higher than mine works out at with 18/45.
I have changed the front sprocket -1 tooth on many bikes over the years, I can't say I ever regretted doing it, it will make is 'lively' though, but just remember it's you that decides how quick to twist the throttle.
I dare say that the internal gearbox ratios may have been altered on the RS to account for the extra torque and bhp so comparing sprocket sizes may not be an accurate comparison to your bike.
https://www.gearingcommander.com/ Try here for an excellent calculator for sprocket, chain and tooth wear ratios Also speed
Gearingcommander shows the rs to have a 18 front and 43 rear. I don’t know if the front is 18, but the side of my rear sprocket reads 44. So is the front actually 18?
Maybe someone has already swapped out the sprockets It is a simple job of removing the front sprocket cover, give the side of the sprocket a wipe down and see it it is a 17 or 18
Red is right, probably best to have a look, but I saw the spec somewhere and I made a note that says: Front Sprocket - 17 Rear Sprocket - 44
Gearingcommander shows the rs to have a 18 front and 43 rear. I don’t know if the front is 18, but the side of my rear sprocket reads 44. So is the front actually 18? Thanks. I may have a look one day.
You can configure Gearing commander with different front and rear sprocket sizes, so you can see the speed and link to tooth ratio for multiple setups
Ok, I had to check it out. 17T is what it is. See photo below. Also, it looks like I maybe able to keep the cover off, as there are no wires/cables in the area to interfere with the sprocket.
Why would you want to keep the cover off? You’re just going to end up with chain lube all over the area that looks so nice and clean at the moment. That sprocket will be spinning at a fair old rate and any lube, even that waxy shit that is on there now, will fling off all over the place.
I use very little lube, again jokes welcome. On my Street Triple I only used WD40 and only a light wipe down once a week. There was 0 fling and the chain was spotless for 15000 K. I’m not a fan of sticky lube which attracts grit which in return destroys sprockets and chains, unless cleaned frequently. I have some Motul, I hope I spelled it right, I may try it and if that flings I will use the cover. I would prefer a nice CNC aluminum guard actually. We’ll see.
Oh, and I should mention that the sticky shit on the chain at the moment is from the factory application. I have not ridden the bike yet, and will be removing that gunk before I do. So I’ll have to decide which lube method I will proceed with once spring arrives.
