1100EVO First Service: 14T Observations

[El-Twin]

Finally got the 600-mile service in the books and swapped-out the 15T for the 14T. Some early observations:

Pros:
1. Can finally use top gear. So I picked-up a useable extra gear.
2. Moves out more strongly in 1st gear. Better pull in all gears, as you would expect.
3. Gear ratios now seem better matched to real-world riding, town & country.

Cons:
1. Gas milage dropped from 40 MPG to 35 MPG. Certainly not a deal-killer, but surprising.
2. Here's the biggie: the drive train is is much more snatchy... very noticeable. Requires more concentration on throttle control at lower speeds.

So my question to all of you who have made this switch: Does the snatchiness eventually smooth-out? Or does the wrist simply learn to adapt?

Thanks for any insights on how this plays out!

[mickyvee]

  I was thinking of changing my sprocket too, but I really think that I can learn to live with the standard gearing. I like the long legged feel at motorway speeds, and when it does start to judder, the gearchange is so sweet that it is a joy to drop a cog or two. Also, I feel sure that as the miles pile on, the motor will smooth out. Oh, and a 5mpg increase is a big deal to me and my 3 gallon tank!

[Curmudgeon]

The chain has to be readjusted when you lose a tooth. It appears that your dealer screwed up and left too much slack. No snatch on mine. Since it's only 3 miles, run down there and have them check it. Lower speeds should be easier.

As for MPG, with another gear, why less? Maybe you are getting carried away with your new-found torque? 

You'll have more fun in the canyons now with the better ratios.  A heavier right wrist will still eat more gas. 

BTW, I'm getting 40 - 45 depending on how spirited the ride and top speeds. Still have trouble keeping it under 80...  That's on pure gas of course, not California corn...

[Curmudgeon]

I was thinking of changing my sprocket too, but I really think that I can learn to live with the standard gearing. I like the long legged feel at motorway speeds, and when it does start to judder, the gearchange is so sweet that it is a joy to drop a cog or two. Also, I feel sure that as the miles pile on, the motor will smooth out. Oh, and a 5mpg increase is a big deal to me and my 3 gallon tank!

That's US MPG and on E-10 California-style. By 2,500 - 3,000 miles, it's done most of the smoothing out it's going to do unless you richen the mixture slightly with O2 optimisers. I'm considering a pair from Dynojet but without the Power Commander V which I don't need in stock trim, as long as my race-oriented dealer approves. THAT WOULD smooth it out more.

BTW, in the UK, no issue with Motorway as 15T to 14T = ~ 400 RPM. In Germany..., well..., maybe! 

[Howie]

The 14 tooth should not increase snatch.  Definitely check chain slack, easy and cheap first.