Recent adventures on steep, rocky and loose grades have gotten me to consider lower gearing than my current 13/42 (3.23) setup for going both up and down. (and different tires and a steering stabilizer, for that matter).

I'm considering a 14/49 (3.5) or too a lesser extent, a 13/45 (3.46) setup. I realize that I'll need a longer chain too.

I leaning towards the 14/49 since I've seen reports/paranoia about chain noise and more wear by keeping with the 13T CS.

So who's running a 14/49? Is the difference ingearing that much more noticable over 13/42? My bike is also a daily commuter, 3 miles one way and no more than 50mph. ...and I usually trailer my bike to the trailhead, so I'm not too worried about losing the top end.

Considering MSR/Ironman rear sprocket and Regina Z-ring chain. They're are pricey, but read reports that they are very durable.

Thanks.

Dan

 

I run a 13/47 combo and really haven't noticed an increase in chain noise. Ends up being 3.61 but works great for the bush!

 

I am running 14/49 and I love it. My top speed is about 55mph now, but the difference on trails is night and day. I did need to replace the chain, but over all the job was pretty easy.

Ican't say about any other gearing since I went from stock to14/49.

 

I am also running 14/49. It is a great gearing for the tight tech. stuff.
At 60 mph you will be pushing 7000 RPM. have had this combo for over 3000 miles

 

I switched to 14/50 (stock on the KLX300R) when I added the 300 cylinder. It requires a slight modification to the chain guide to fit (about 5 minutes with a dremel). I have not had a chance to test it on the trail yet, but my riding partner made the same change and says it pulls good. Top speed on my commute is 40 (45 indicated), and I haven't had it above that (yet). Just letting you know that it fits (after removing a little plastic). You have enough engine for it, in case you want to try it.

 

I run a 14/49 and I do like it. But I ride very tight trails and just picked up a 13 to run 13/49. If I did not ride tight South Jersey enduro trails I would stick with 14/49 because on everything else its perfect.

 

55? I have the 13-45, which is a fraction off from yours, and I can do 65 without any problems. I think you might be underestimating your speed, give it a try.

 

I'm thinkin of runnin a 14/48 with a 110 link. pretty much the same as a 13/45 if im not mistaking right? I do 50/50 ridin with the bike cause its cheaper then puttin gas in the suv

 

I'm running 14/49 which is the stock set-up on the KLX250R, mine is set-up just about rightfor my riding which is mostly trails and the odd Enduro competition. On the tarmac its crying for mercy at about 75mph and if i did more road work then i might be tempted to gear up a bit, but i find the balance is just about right as is!!

 

I run a 14/48 and love it my bro had the bike doing 90mph probbaly at a high rpm. works great 50/50 still wish i had a little more low end