Author Topic: how many links in the chain for smaller sprockets? (Read 4658 times)

flip · « **on:** January 11, 2006, 12:49:20 AM »

I will probably purchase a new chain soon for my '96 b6. I believe that stock gearing is 15/48 with a 112 link chain. I am running a 16 tooth front sprocket and will probably switch to a 46 tooth rear sprocket. Do I need to subtract 1 link for each tooth I lose on the sprockets to keep the chain length correct? By the way, anybody had experience with EK chains and their new masterlink design?

Red01 · « **Reply #1 on:** January 11, 2006, 01:11:46 AM »

It's not a 1/1 change. Normally, you can go up or down 1 tooth up front with no change in chain links. When changing length, it must always be an even number, ie; you can't just drop one link.

FWIW - The B12 comes with a 110 link chain and 15/45 gearing. So if you go with a 112 links and it's too long, you could just cut a pair out and make it a 110.

solman · « **Reply #2 on:** January 11, 2006, 09:34:31 AM »

Quote from: "flip"

I will probably purchase a new chain soon for my '96 b6. I believe that stock gearing is 15/48 with a 112 link chain. I am running a 16 tooth front sprocket and will probably switch to a 46 tooth rear sprocket. Do I need to subtract 1 link for each tooth I lose on the sprockets to keep the chain length correct? By the way, anybody had experience with EK chains and their new masterlink design?

I don't know what the gearing is on a B6, but from what you wrote, I am confused. Basically from what you wrote, you are running a higher gearing in the front and you want to lower the rear.

flip · « **Reply #3 on:** January 11, 2006, 10:35:42 AM »

I like taller gearing to slow down the engine while running 70-80 on the interstate. You can raise the gearing by going to a larger front sprocket or a smaller rear sprocket or both. I first just tried the 1 tooth larger front sprocket. I bought a 2 tooth smaller sprocket for the rear but the stock chain was too long to run it. Being a cheap s.o.b. (I am riding a 10 year old B6 after all) I decided to run the stock rear sprocket and chain for a while longer. I also wanted to keep as large as possible sprockets, especially on the front to keep more distance between the chain and the swing arm. I am basically making my B6 more of a commuter/ light tourer instead of a screaming naked sport bike.

Red01 · « **Reply #4 on:** January 11, 2006, 10:37:23 PM »

Like I said...

Quote from: "Red01"

So if you go with a 112 links and it's too long, you could just cut a pair out and make it a 110.