Dual sport gearing

[capehorn23]

Finally got a tag for my 2005 144MC. Gearing is 13-50 which is extremely low. I can only get about 50 mph wide open, which is way to low. I need to be able to run 50-55 at 1/2 throttle. I was thinking about going to a 46 rear. I am using the bike as a modified dual sport to connect trail sections. Thoughts?
Terry

[capehorn23]

Is anyone running 13/44 gearing on their GG 125-200?

[cbutler]

I am running 13/49 on my 02 EC200 I love it way less shifting.It was supposed to have the ports polished and a 9 oz FW but I do not know for sure. I do have to fly up or abuse the clutch on big hills.

[Jakobi]

I can't imagine such a small capacity being much fun pulling gearing that tall. I mean it'll likely cruise at low revs, but it might not pull well under load, not to mention how much ridability you'll give up in the process.

Using a 144 for dual sporting is a bit like using a whipper snipper to mow the lawn, when really a mower would do the same thing much better.

[capehorn23]

Originally Posted by Jakobi

I can't imagine such a small capacity being much fun pulling gearing that tall. I mean it'll likely cruise at low revs, but it might not pull well under load, not to mention how much ridability you'll give up in the process.

Using a 144 for dual sporting is a bit like using a whipper snipper to mow the lawn, when really a mower would do the same thing much better.

I have a KTM 525 MXC that I use as my primary dual sport bike. I use the term dual sport very lightly for the GG. I need the GG to be able to connect trails by using forest roads. With 13/50 gearing the GG sounds like it is redlined at 40 mph. My goal is to get 50 mph for connecting trails. I am using your jetting recommendations to clean up the powerband. I am a retired from enduro racing as an "A" rider so I do understand gearing so any suggestions you have on setting this bike up would be greatly appreciated. The GG was Fred Hoose's factory ISDE ride in 2005.
Thanks--Terry

[Jakobi]

No dramas Terry.

I haven't had any exposure jetting 125/144/200's of this colour, but I'll assume you've taken that into consideration already with your experience.

Mainly, all I was getting at was that its always a compromise, and that 13/44 would probably be a bit too far for that little engine. I find the 250/300's will cruise OK around 80km/hr, just coming onto the pipe with 13/50. I don't think I'd go less than 13/45 on them for mixed riding.

Can you fit a 14T on the front as a cheap test to see how it'll run? that'd be similar to 13/45.

[sweeper]

13/46 would be fine for a vet A rider.

You should be able to get the final drive ratio specs from the service manual.And calculate the top speed you are after with a gearing calculator.Tire height and width will be a factor.

[Jakobi]

I agree in most cases a talented rider will prefer taller gearing and carry more speed everywhere, but I still question the engines ability to pull the taller gearing, particularly in the higher gears. Even at 13/48 there is a noticable dip between 4th 5th and 6th gears if shifting too soon in the rev range. I can't imagine how it would be with taller gearing on an engine half the capacity.

[sweeper]

Sounds like this could be a specific gearing requirement for a specific loop or loops.Probably a closer to home practice loop.Giving up some on trail performance for road speed between trails.Range is probably a consideration also.
Vet A.
And "retired"

Are the key words here.

[desertgasser300]

Originally Posted by sweeper

Vet A.
And "retired"

Are the key words here.

What does that have to do with gearing?