15 tooth front sprocket good or bad idea?

[djo269]

I have a 2003 yamaha yz450f. I was thinking about trying a 15 tooth front sprocket with a 51 or 52 rear. I dont want to change gearing much from stock but I was curious if anyone already runs one and what are the benefits and downsides to running a 15(on a yz450)? thanx

[mikedabike]

It is fine if you can handle the tall first gear. I run 15/46 in supermoto trim with 17 inch wheels and usually run 14/48 with the stock wheels. Sometimes I get lazy and leave the 15 on. I even rode motocross a while back with 15/48 but it was tough coming out of tight corners but no big deal and I never got out of 3rd gear all day.

[grayracer513]

I run one, there's no downside. I use it because I wanted to go to 14/46 gearing, but I couldn't get a 46 from anyone without doing an SO. I went with 15/49 instead; it's the same ratio.

It's theoretically better to run larger sprockets because of the reduced amount of pivoting the chain rollers have to do. OTOH, larger is heavier. Neither makes too much difference between 14 & 15.

[mikedabike]

I use it because I wanted to go to 14/46 gearing, but I couldn't get a 46 from anyone without doing an SO.

I got my 46 through the TT store. It is a Talon out of the White Brothers catalog.

[SureBlue]

I run one, there's no downside. I use it because I wanted to go to 14/46 gearing, but I couldn't get a 46 from anyone without doing an SO. I went with 15/49 instead; it's the same ratio.

Gray, if you still need them, I have 45 and 46

[Cisco5311]

I run a 15 on the front of my 426 the gears are taller and you don't have to shift as much. I've pulled lots of holeshots since i went with the 15.

[ksrrider]

I have a 2003 yamaha yz450f. I was thinking about trying a 15 tooth front sprocket with a 51 or 52 rear. I dont want to change gearing much from stock but I was curious if anyone already runs one and what are the benefits and downsides to running a 15(on a yz450)? thanx

The benefits with a 15 is more top end speed, and is great for desert. Using a 15/51 or 52 with the 114 link stock chain will push your axle almost all the way forward. You'll need a 116 link conversely. A 15/48 combo is perfect for desert racing or play riding, IMO. These bikes work well with tall gearing, it seams to really stretch out the power.

[bob333]

go with the 15

[djo269]

I run one, there's no downside. I use it because I wanted to go to 14/46 gearing. I went with 15/49 instead; it's the same ratio.

Thanks for your help Greyracer513! How does this gearing affect the original "hit" that the bike had before? Did it take some away? I have a 49 rear on now and ordered a 15 front and wanted to know what changes to expect. Did you have to extend the chain with more links from the stock 114?

Basically, my set-up is that I weigh about 280lbs fully geared. I ride supercross style outdoor mx tracks with short runs out of corners to jump faces. I need all the acceleration I can get as you can see.lol I ordered a new Maxx Cross IT rear tire for better traction. What else do you think I should look into? thanks guys for all your input.

[35yz450F]

15/50 on the stock chain here.

[bob333]

I run one, there's no downside. I use it because I wanted to go to 14/46 gearing. I went with 15/49 instead; it's the same ratio.

Thanks for your help Greyracer513! How does this gearing affect the original "hit" that the bike had before? Did it take some away? I have a 49 rear on now and ordered a 15 front and wanted to know what changes to expect. Did you have to extend the chain with more links from the stock 114?

Basically, my set-up is that I weigh about 280lbs fully geared. I ride supercross style outdoor mx tracks with short runs out of corners to jump faces. I need all the acceleration I can get as you can see.lol I ordered a new Maxx Cross IT rear tire for better traction. What else do you think I should look into? thanks guys for all your input.

well my dad runs a 13 in front on his wr and it is awesome

[RAMARION]

15/47 here.....nothing but holeshot, every once in a while I might shift also..........

[mike thomason]

I recently installed a 15 front and a 48 rear I hope I didn't make a mistake on my 2004 YZ450F it had a 14 and a 48 I just wanted to not have to shift so much and maybe stay more in 2nd and 3rd