Some earlier posts state some guys can do 14/48 with stock chain with the blocks reversed. I would shell out for a new high quality rk or did chain IMHO. 13/48 is perfect for me. I read the entire thread.. All 117 pages lol. From what I read you will need a longer chain. 118 I believe.. Shot me if I'm wrong.
It is not the sprocket we are concerned about in terms of wear. The 13t sprocket causes the chain to wear and rub more on the swing arm pivot where there is a plastic wear block. That slide or wear block appears to be rapidly wearing such that the chain may soon cut through and start damaging the swing arm.
I see. It appears the chain will rub more, it will be one of those things you just have to keep an eye on. Acerbis makes replacements that aren't to expensive, or order stock parts. As long as you replace the guides when they wear down you should be fine. I usually order and keep high wear items like that on hand just incase.
The 14/48 will work with stock chain flip blocks. IF you go more than 48 (say to 49) you will need longer chain or add lengths. My experience anyway. I tried the 13 up front and did not like it. Not enough top end for my riding and first and second were just wasted... A buddy of mine just got a 2013. Doesnt seem to be changed at all but thats not official just us looking. He did get a manual. Purchased in B'ham AL.
I run the 14/48 and it seems to be a nice compromise between single track and jaunts on the highway. I can still do 80mph comfortably, and lug 1st and 2nd gear through the single tracks....
Am I missing something. Im at 14/48 and my bike is singing at 65mph. I have not really tried to max it out but 80 sounds way up there for my grearing.... or maybe I just dont like the sound of red line....
Redline? I don't know about that, since I don't have a tach, but I do know the bike pulled strong at 80 mph, and still had some room for 85. Now, I wouldn't keep it there for an extended period of time, not with the 14/48 gearing. Where I ride single track I'll often hit the dirt road to get back to my trailer. I'll often hit 75 - 80 with no issues or worries.
What state are you located in?Man you did get lucky as I have not heard anyone getting the 2013 OM with 500exc?Hope ktm gets us one soon,should be interesting or make a 2013 500exc OM USA available online,but you know I just like having my OM in print as well too.
No I do not have tac either but know when the revs start getting really high. Next time I get a chance I will nail the sucker and see what she will do.... or blow up! 85 is pleanty speed for me thank you...
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Coming off a CRF onto the XCW was a learning experience, but this thing made me look so good yesterday any thoughts of going back are gone for ever! From tight singletrack to tractoring up wet steeps this bike does it all and neither of us had any FI issues, which would have meant a night out up there. It was simply amazing!
I live in Oklahoma, were it's flat, hot, and extremely humid. Not sure how i ended up with one. The dealer sent me a pic of the bike in the crate the morning it came in, and i left with it that afternoon..lol The manual is big and easy to read, unlike the smc manual i had.
That goat was eyeballin you tire, he was gonna make you some slicks..lol What an awesome place to ride, i envy you guys. I have been contemplating moving for years and this bike might send me over the edge.
Hey Dan, they are both Wolfman, I love the fender bag, but this is the first time for the tank bag on a long ride on the 500 and for me on this bike it was a bit in the way, I waved off the saddlebags for this ride and after riding my bike and sitting on Ed's, the Daytripper saddlebags from Wolfman are for me the way to go. For a taller guy like you, the tank bag will probably be fine, but after riding the 500 at the track my style with this bike is up on the tank.