Final drive ratio

[fuzz]

If you downgear then as I understand it, the bike will rev higher and use more fuel. Does this then mean that if you upgear, you will have better fuel economy? I also assume it would mean you would change through the gears less often aswell. This would suit me as I change through the 'box quite quickly anyway. Is it worth upgearing if you're not after loads of oomph?
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https://www.bikepics.com/members/fuzzbcf/
Bikes: '99 NSR125R, '00 SV650S, K1 GSX-R600, '97 CB500, K3 SV1000S, '16 VFR800

[fuzz]

But throughout that range, surely it takes longer to go through than if the final ratio was lower, and therefore there would be less gear changes within a period of time?
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https://www.bikepics.com/members/fuzzbcf/
Bikes: '99 NSR125R, '00 SV650S, K1 GSX-R600, '97 CB500, K3 SV1000S, '16 VFR800

[G]

It depends on the bike etc.

If you spend a lot of time in top gear, just 'cruising', it could be worth considering. To be honest I'd probably wait 'till you need to change chain and sprockets, as you probably won't make back the money you save on the new ones .

[fuzz]

I do spend alot of time in top gear (why do you think I can get 60 miles to the gallon ) but no, I wouldn't change them just yet. A couple of the teeth on the rear are wearing down at the tips, but nothing major and I should get a few more miles in.

If I was to upgear I would have to go one up on the front anyway, and I haven't checked that one for wear yet. Chains in good condition though, and plenty of adjustment left, so I reckon it's OK for now.
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https://www.bikepics.com/members/fuzzbcf/
Bikes: '99 NSR125R, '00 SV650S, K1 GSX-R600, '97 CB500, K3 SV1000S, '16 VFR800

[loply]

If you cruise along motorways at 85mph you could probably adjust the revs to be a bit lower, but I imagine they were designed (ish) to give best fuel economy in top gear at around 70mph anyway?

Long story short it may work, may not, and either way probably wont make a massive difference on your wallet.
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Yamaha SZR660 Caution to the wind, the throttle pinned!

[Kickstart]

Hi

On the Bandit one tooth down on the front added about 10% to the fuel consumption. Higher gearing will make it more relaxing on the motorway when cruising, and much of the time if you want the performance then just knock it down a gear.

Probably worth waiting until you are changing the chain and sprockets.

All the best

Keith
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