can someone please educate me on how changing out the front and/or rear sprocket affects acceleration? not so much in terms relative to engineering or physics but rather simply. you know, like for non-mech rider types like me.

-- Leonardo (lpasq@hotmail.com), February 23, 2005

Answers

In simple terms the larger the rear sprocket relative to the front the more you are gearing the bike down thus giving greater acceleration but at the cost of top end speed. Conversely the same is true the larger the front sprocket is in relation to the rear the more top end speed but less power off the line. You can change front,rear or a combination of both. My recommendation if you want to experiment start with the front sprocket by adding or dropping a tooth. One tooth makes a big difference on the front (little on the rear due to the ratios).Most riders are chasing more grunt down low so it is typical to drop down to a smaller front sprocket ,remember though one tooth should do it. if not you will then start on the rear. Hope this helps.

-- Brett (bfitzpatrick@psm.net.au), February 23, 2005.

Ever rode a bicycle? Same concept.

-- JJ (jj33@netscape.net), February 24, 2005.

thanks guys [img]http://tcwozere.co.uk/smileys/doublet.gif[/img]

-- Leonardo (lpasq@hotmail.com), February 24, 2005.