Gear ratio changes and wheelbase

[Doorag]

Will changing the gearing (-1, +2 for example) change the wheelbase of the bike? I assume that the larger chain ring in the back will bring the wheel forward slightly and change the handling? I know they bang on about how "Rossi changed his wheelbase by 1mm and now the bike handles SO much better", but in the real world would I even notice?

 

[04fizzer]

Seriously?

Sure, it'll change it. Will you notice? Hell no.

 

[dako81]

Depends on how much you adjust the slack in the chain. Also, if you go to much bigger in the back, you're going to need more links, putting it back to where it was at anyways.

You'd probably notice the difference in a wheelbase of 1" or more if you're riding hard on a track, back to back on the different wheelbases. But, other than that, probably not.

You'll probably notice more of a difference if you are overweight and lost 15-20 pounds.

 

[Smittyboy]

You'll probably notice more of a difference if you are overweight and lost 15-20 pounds.

I resent that remark! True though. Lost about 15 before putting it back on, and the bike liked me for it!

 

[dako81]

I resent that remark! True though. Lost about 15 before putting it back on, and the bike liked me for it!

Haha! It wasn't pointed at you or anyone. I've got plenty I need to get rid of, and I've only been in college 3 years....

 

[04fizzer]

Haha! It wasn't pointed at you or anyone. I've got plenty I need to get rid of, and I've only been in college 3 years....

Just wait until you get OUT of college. It only gets worse.

 

[Oscar54]

It would seem to me that the variance allowed for chain adjustment is designed to keep the handling characteristics within the design of the bike by Yamaha. Also to keep you in the wear limit of the chain.

So unless you change the swing arm, like I've seen on some bikes, I think the changes you are talking about will only result in better acceleration at the low end and less speed at top end. You will also be able to wheelie easier, if that is what you like!

 

[Doorag]

Cool. I didn't think it would make enough of a difference that I would be able to tell. I'm not going to do both the -1 and the +2 together. I was thinking of changing the rear only so I can keep the rubberised sprocket on the front (quieter).

And yes, I definitely could lose 20 (ore even 30) pounds and that would make a huge difference. I don't do any mods to make the bike lighter for exactly that reason. What's the point of paying £300 to save a few grams when I'm 30lbs overweight?

Unsprung weight is a different matter entirely. I could definitely go for some forged aluminum wheels. mmm...

 

[spamthefood]

I just did the -1/+2 conversion and the change in the wheel base was very minor. I was way to distracted by the change in the power to notice a handling change.