So I'm thinking I want to convert to chain on my '99 1200.What I'm not sure of is how the conversion goes as far as sprocket sizes in relation to gear ratios from belt to chain.I would like to keep close to the same ratio as stock is now.Anybody done this have the sprocket sizes front/rear they used ?

 

There are plenty of conversion kits available that come with all the parts you need, which will do exactly what you want and take the guesswork out of sprocket sizes. Search for 'sportster chain conversion' on Ebay as a starter. 22/48 seems to be the solution, which gives 2.18:1, while your current belt is 29/61, which gives you 2.10:1.

 

Why?

My last chain bike drove me crazy having to keep it adjusted. No more chains for me.

 

Agreed - I haven't owned a bike with an exposed chain since the 1970s - they are just SO last century! But to each his own.....

 

Thanks man.Thats what I was looking for.I've found plenty of chain drives,just didn't know what the comparable ratio would be..

 

2 of my other bikes are both chain drive,and the maintenance doesn't really bother me.Plus it's the look I wanna go with as well.

 

bam!!

 

Chain drive is my next chop on my 2000 1200. I like the looks of old bikes. I have owned older bikes before belts and I never had to adjust the chain very often. Don't be afraid to wrench on your bike that's how you get to know it. CTFS

 

You have two sides to the coin.

Belt, low maintenance, but expensive to replace.
Chain, more noise, a little more cleaning, but a lot less expensive.

I have a Honda X11 which is chain driven, never found it a problem, the key to have an easy life to a chain it getting the back wheel off the ground via a lift or centre stand, 5 mins cleaning, hardly ever need to adjust it, and the X11 is a torque monster.

 

Yeah,I dig the look of chains,if it works.Thinking of throwing a kit on my Softail as well.WOOT!