45t/16t gearing on a kz650 for city driving?

650ed wrote:

loudhvx wrote: ..........1980 KZ750E uses a 13 tooth front......

Keep in mind that the 13 tooth sprocket on the 1980 KZ750E has a larger diameter than one would have on a KZ650. This is because the stock chain size on the 1980 KZ750E is 630 but on the KZ650 it is 530. Consequently, the distance between chain pins on the KZ750E chain are longer (3/4") than on the KZ650 (5/8"). Ed

Ok, but, again, I did not say that. The quote is not quoting me.

Sorry. I changed my posting to remove your id. Ed

loudhvx wrote: Theoretically, the chain tension on the top side will be a tiny bit higher on the 15/42, than the 16/45 during acceleration etc. Chain tension does affect the anti-squat effect during acceleration. (Google anti-squat geometry motorcycle if you want to know more about it.) Also, because the front sprocket diameter is a tiny bit smaller, the chain will have a tiny bit less clearance where it goes over the swingarm pivot.

650ed wrote:

Nessism wrote: I wouldn't go smaller in the front. Go larger in the back...or keep it stock. Smaller in the front forces the chain to turn through a smaller diameter and that costs power and increases wear.

+1 I would keep the 16T size sprocket up front. Ed

loudhvx, ed, Nessism, thanks all. I'm going w/ 16/45. Will update post when I've installed and given it a try.

If you can exchange the sprocket and chain ok (or sell it) but if not another thing to consider is cost vs at best a 10% increase in mileage ...... say 22,500 miles vs 25,000..... I think you could forget to oil it a few times and lose that.

KZB2 650 wrote: If you can exchange the sprocket and chain ok (or sell it) but if not another thing to consider is cost vs at best a 10% increase in mileage ...... say 22,500 miles vs 25,000..... I think you could forget to oil it a few times and lose that.

gotcha. Was able to return the sprockets and chain w/o issue. will be installing 16/45 shortly.