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Change Sprocket Ratio?

Discussion in 'XJ Modifications' started by tlawrence1381, Jul 26, 2016.

  1. tlawrence1381

    tlawrence1381 New Member

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    I've been riding my bike('82 Maxim 550) for a few months and have been thinking about changing the rear sprocket to change the gearing a bit. The bike has a Kerker pipe on it so it's kinda loud at certain RPM ranges. It just seems like when I'm cruising at 65mph it's always right in the loud part of the RPM(about 3,000 RPM)and that gets to be a bit much on long rides. If i stay lower in the RPM it's not that bad or if I'm going faster like 70mph it seems to level out a bit. Currently have a 45T on there now, was wondering what some of you guys might be running right now. I was thinking about trying to get a 43T for it just curious to get some feedback before I spend my money on it. Any input is appreciated...
     
    tlawrence1381, Jul 26, 2016
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  2. Polock

    Polock Well-Known Member

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    front sprockets are cheaper. one tooth will make a difference two in the back you'll hardly notice
     
    Polock, Jul 26, 2016
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  3. k-moe

    k-moe Pie, Bacon, Bourbon. Moderator Premium Member

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    Wear earplugs.
     
    k-moe, Jul 26, 2016
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  4. mlew

    mlew Well-Known Member

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    Some Kerker mufflers have replaceable baffles and packing . Check them and replace the packing material. That will quiet it down.

    google search "kerker muffler packing" and you will find how to check it
     
    mlew, Jul 27, 2016
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  5. specialk

    specialk Active Member

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    3k rpm @ 65 mph is already close to lugging the engine. I know some pipes resonate/drone at certain rpms. For instant 4500rpm on my 550 sounds louder to me than 6000rpm does. May be smart to actually up the cruising rpm, it would be healthy for the engine and may in fact be quite.
     
    specialk, Jul 27, 2016
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  6. Polock

    Polock Well-Known Member

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    Polock, Jul 27, 2016
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  7. tlawrence1381

    tlawrence1381 New Member

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    That's exactly what it's doing. If I go like 70mph being a higher RPM it does quiet down a bit. I just don't always wanna do 70(like if there's cops around) lol
     
    tlawrence1381, Jul 27, 2016
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  8. k-moe

    k-moe Pie, Bacon, Bourbon. Moderator Premium Member

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    Higher engine speeds should make more noise, not less. I think you might have more going on than just a loud exhaust.

    Does the same quieting down happen at higher RPM when in first of second gear (low enough speeds that wind noise isn't masking the exhaust noise).
     
    k-moe, Jul 27, 2016
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  9. specialk

    specialk Active Member

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    To a bystander it does make more noise for sure, however with me on the bike I perceive it to be quieter because the pitch is not as harsh within that rpm range.
     
    specialk, Jul 27, 2016
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  10. k-moe

    k-moe Pie, Bacon, Bourbon. Moderator Premium Member

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    Get your hearing checked (not joking). It really should seem louder to you as well.
     
    k-moe, Jul 27, 2016
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  11. cgutz

    cgutz Well-Known Member

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    I have stock sprocket sizes, 16 front/46 rear, on my 83 XJ550 and if I remember I am closer to 4k rpm at 65mph. 3k seems a bit low. I'm guessing it is pretty sluggish unless you downshift? I wouldn't recommend further lowering the rpm.
     
    Last edited: Jul 28, 2016
    cgutz, Jul 28, 2016
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