Sprockets

Want quicker acceleration out of corners or lower revs on the open road? Sprockets determine the gearing between engine and rear wheel on motorcycles, dirt bikes and mini bikes. We stock front and rear sprockets in several chain pitches and tooth counts.

How the tooth count affects gearing

The front sprocket sits on the gearbox output shaft, the rear sprocket on the rear wheel. The ratio between their tooth counts determines the gearing. Fewer teeth at the front or more at the rear typically gives shorter gearing with quicker acceleration and a lower top speed. The opposite gives lower revs at high speed. One tooth at the front changes the ratio more than one tooth at the rear.

How to choose sprockets

• Chain pitch: the first number in the designation, e.g. 415, 428 or 520, must match your chain.
• Tooth count: choose according to the setup you want. A bigger change may require a different chain length.
• Fitment: the splines at the front and the bolt pattern at the rear must match the specific model, so check the part number.
• Material: e.g. steel sprockets from BikeMaster or hard-anodised aluminium from Renthal. Aluminium is typically lighter, while steel typically withstands wear better.

The category also includes brands such as TwinPower, S&S Cycle and Bikers Choice.

Fitting and wear

Chain and sprockets wear together. A new chain on worn sprockets can therefore wear faster, and many riders replace everything at once, e.g. with a chain and sprocket kit. Pointed, hooked or uneven teeth are signs of wear. After fitting, check chain tension and wheel alignment and tighten nuts according to the manufacturer's instructions.

Frequently asked questions

What do numbers like 520-45 in the product name mean?

The first number is the chain pitch, which must match your chain. The last is the tooth count. A 520-45 sprocket therefore fits a 520 chain and has 45 teeth.

Should I replace chain and sprockets at the same time?

It is typically recommended, because the parts wear together. If you fit a new chain on worn sprockets, the chain can wear faster and run roughly. However, it depends on how worn the individual parts are.

Can changed gearing affect the speedometer and roadworthiness inspection?

Yes, the speedometer can read incorrectly, depending on where the speed is measured. Whether the change is permitted for road use depends on the motorcycle and the product. Check the rules and the specific part number before riding on public roads.