Looking to replace chain and sprockets, need help.
 

Hello, I’m somewhat new to motorcycles, been riding less than 2 years.

I now have over 17,000 miles on my 2005 F4i and I want to replace the original sprockets and chain.

I have been reading there are different ratios you can do -1, +2 etc …what do these mean? And what do I want for more acceleration.

1) Where is the best place to buy a kit, I know of Bikebandits.com
2) How much am I looking for in labor costs?

If perhaps someone could send me a link of exactly what would work that would be great.

I’m basically planning on buying online and bringing the kit in to the shop, is there anything else that I should know or tell the mechanics? Thank you.

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I used the "Search" button and this was literally the first post to show up.....
https://cbrforum.com/forum/how-mechanical-40/chain-sprocket-swap-97641/

Don't go to a shop. They'll screw you. Unless you've never held a wrench before it's a simple process.

A monkey could read that thread and change his sprockets/chain if need be.

That's a good write up to use.Now about your gearing,if you want more acceleration go with -1 / +2 which means front sprocket 1 tooth less than stock, rear sprocket 2 more teeth more than stock.Example: front sprocket stock is 16 replace it with a 15 tooth sprocket.THe great thing is your bike willl take off alot faster than before but,you'll lose top end.The bad is your speedometer will be off alot as well.Meaning if your speedo says you're going 75mph you are actually going maybe 60 mph.

If you currently like how your bike is performing(acceleration, top speed, gas mileage) then keep the stock gearing. I wanted a little more on the low end and went for the -1/+2 but that is completely your choice.

As for doing it yourself, it is one of the easier things you do on your bike. There are too many DIY threads about this for such an easy job so you shouldnt have any trouble putting in the new chain, the only special tool I needed was a chain press. I borrowed that from a friend, just don't do a clip master link.

I went through "moto-haven" on ebay, I think it was around 150 for everything (my memory has been compromised) And get the 525 kit not the 520 kits that most folks suggest. We will never see (or feel) the difference from the conversion. Theoretically the smaller (520) kit has less recipricating mass thus increasing performance, BS I say. It might knock a few tenths off of lap time, but how many of us are really trying to achieve that. The 525 (OEM size for 600s, litre bikes come with a 530) is stronger than the 520 equivalent, thus lasting longer. Also steel sprockets will last longer than aluminum ones. As for the gearing change (this is the difference we feel), -1 +2 is common, I went with 16/50, to each his own. With the increase of low end torque comes the ease of getting the front wheel off the ground, something to remember when you decide to "get on it" (Learn from other's mistakes)lol.

I found this

http://www.bikebandit.com/rk-vortex-...=1070&t=1&td=1

on Bikebandits, most of it is 520 though. Is that really a bad thing?

Where has everyone found some deals online?

525 and 520 if you're asking what is better you probably will never know the difference. To regualr rider the only difference is the # and the price. I have always had good luck with Motosport, they have always treated me great there. I did my -1/+2 520 conversion for $190-$200. that was with DID chain Renthal Rear and Vortex front.

On bikebandits, one item displays a ratio of 3.07 while another item identical displays N/A but is siginificanly cheaper, anyone know why or what it means. Thanks.