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2023 front/rear sprocket Question

FizzBuzz3000

Member
Joined
Sep 6, 2023
Messages
48
Location
Somewhere in Central Minnesota
Hey all, I was wondering if anyone was using a larger front sprocket or a smaller rear sprocket on their 2023 Trail 125, I can't seem to find (or somehow keep missing) posts with those riding stock 125cc motor. I want your opinions on how it has worked out for you. The reason is I've been wanting to get a bit better top-end if possible, since I am going to do long-distance riding with it to do some motocamping next year across Minnesota. Do note that I haven't really messed with changing the ratios before. It's a new thing for me and I'd like any advice you all have. Apologies if this isn't the right forum.

Thanks!
 

dmonkey

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Jul 4, 2021
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Location
🇺🇸
The stock bike's top speed is limited by engine power not being able to overcome resistance at speed, not by gearing. What I mean by this is that it's running out of power, not RPM, so giving it taller gearing will only put it further away from the optimal (high) RPM for maximum power and maximum speed while in 4th gear. If you want the bike to have a faster top speed you'll need to decrease resistance, increase engine power, or both.

Some related reading on that here: https://www.gearingcommander.com/gc_howto22.htm
 

ol mike

Member
Joined
Jan 21, 2023
Messages
74
For my 2023 the stock gearing is perfect for general exploring gravel/dirt roads , going to the hamburger store etc. .
The last thing I'd do is gear the bike higher.
Like dmonkey says - it doesn't have enough power to improve highway speeds. Especially if loaded with camping gear/tools/man size rider.
The best advice I can give is keep the stock gearing and keep the weight down as much as possible . > Ultralight camping gear , 2lb. goose-down bag, 2lb. tent , 2lb. sleep pad , titanium kitchen, lightweight clothing, etc. .
 

AZ7000'

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Joined
Jan 28, 2021
Messages
989
I have 3.0 tires and a 13t front. It seems the consensus here is that basically brings you back to stock. I didn’t have issues before and didn’t notice a huge difference with the 13, I haven’t taken the effort to switch back but I’m in the mountains and I imagine it helps as there are hills everywhere here. It might hold 40 over the steep ones…
 

m in sc

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Feb 2, 2021
Messages
2,519
Location
Rockhill, SC
if you aren't hitting the rev limiter in top gear, changing the sprockets isn't going to gain you anything as far as top speed.
 

sieg

Active member
Joined
Dec 15, 2022
Messages
85
I geared down same or a little more top speed but quicker getting there. Motor can rev a little more and get to its peak HP.
 

m in sc

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Joined
Feb 2, 2021
Messages
2,519
Location
Rockhill, SC
^ yes. sometimes thats the case, the XR150 actually gets better topend 2 teeth up on the back vs stock. (and the speedo on that is driven off the ft wheel, not the countershaft sprocket like on the CT125)
 

NMCoyote

Active member
Joined
May 31, 2023
Messages
175
Location
Newer Mexico
You are wanting to go to a 13 tooth front sprocket and never look back. The best $9 I've spent on the bike, hands down. The diameter difference between the 14 and 13 is very small so I would worry about chain stress/ wear.
 

FizzBuzz3000

Member
Joined
Sep 6, 2023
Messages
48
Location
Somewhere in Central Minnesota
Thanks for your input everyone, for now I'll try a 13T sprocket and see how it works! Any places that might have a good sprocket to buy from? (man, I *really* wish the trail had a dual-range transmission now...)
 

NMCoyote

Active member
Joined
May 31, 2023
Messages
175
Location
Newer Mexico
Thanks for your input everyone, for now I'll try a 13T sprocket and see how it works! Any places that might have a good sprocket to buy from? (man, I *really* wish the trail had a dual-range transmission now...)
I bought it at JTFsprockets.com, part number JTF273.13. You want the old dual range gear box? Don’t we all! 😎
 
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