I Found 6th Gear!

[BillInGA]

It's called a 16T front sprocket! I simply can't get over the improvement in ride-ability - a night and day difference.

So here's the story so far: Last week I did the Pilot Screw mod - or so I thought. I had ordered the 16T and was expecting it today, so yesterday I went to do the Needle Shim adjustment. While I was in the carb, I check the pilot screw and discovered that I had reset it back to factory specs - 1 1/2 turns out. :whistle: I readjusted the pilot screw to 2 1/2 turns out and then completed the needle shim mod. On the PMCR (Post Maintenance Check Ride) the bike felt different / better, but in a way I couldn't really put my finger on.

Today I picked up the 16t and installed it this evening after work. BTW - a big thanks for the How To's! It makes doing these mods MUCH easier. :2tup: The sprocket change was actually a three-fer - I also cleaned and lubed the chain and adjusted the chain tension.

On to the PMCR. Wow! What a difference! I remember someone previously mentioning that the new gearing felt a lot like a VW Bug. I have to say I agree. Shifting speeds / RPM's felt very natural and engine RPM at any given speed was more comfortable. My big fear was that 5th gear would be too "tall" to be usable on the freeway. Just the opposite! I think with the 15T I was running out revs at freeway speeds. With the 16t I have enough revs and power to get up to 75 MPH and had some to spare. I don't know what the new top speed is and I'm probably not going to try to find out. Suffice it to say that these mods make my GZ feel like a whole different bike. I only wish I had done this when I first bought it.

Finally, I ordered my windshield. I decided to go with the Slip Streamer SS-28 Sport Fairing. It is scheduled for delivery on Monday, so I should get it installed and have an update for you next week.

Cheers!