Installed a Pro-tek 16 tooth front sprocket today and wish I had sooner!!!

[RobZ900]

Originally Posted by 3alfa3

15/42 makes the wheelbase 8.52mm longer. If a 112 link chain is used, the wheelbase is 7.44 mm shorter.

Whichever way, 8mm is tiny, so not really an issue.

[Zed62]

+1 on the wheel base topic.  You can feel the difference.  Not a problem usually, but it changes the handling. 

[Zed62]

Update: I am loving the taller gearing.  The Z900 engine is so tractable and the fuel economy is great as we are now at over $2.00/liter for ethanol free 94 octane in BC this summer.

[Andreasy]

I'm also considering the 16t front or maybe both front and rear (41-43 rear). Can someone explain, when it is necessary to either change to longer chain or cut links from existing? If I just change the front to 16 will I need to change chain? and if I change rear as well to 42 or 41? In general when do you consider changing to longer chain?

And also, this discussion about removing the rubber from front sprocket, in which case do you need to remove it? because I see that it serves a good purpose

[Zed62]

Regarding the rubber on the front sprocket,  I do not believe that people are removing it, but most aftermarket sprockets do not come with it. The rubber seems to make it a bit quieter.

[Andreasy]

what about chain size? how do I know if existing chain will be sufficient if change to 16/41 or 42 or if I'll need to get bigger?