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Do I need a new belt sprocket?

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Old Jan 22, 2026 | 01:51 PM
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Default Do I need a new belt sprocket?
Rear wheel belt sprocket
Rear wheel belt sprocket


97 Ultra Classic.
I'm replacing the Final Drive Belt, as well as the Forward Sprocket. I've tried to take photos of the worst of the rear one. It seems to me the issue is only missing plating in some areas. A new Sprocket is expensive so I'm trying to avoid replacing it, especially as it's not that difficult to get at if I need to replace it later. But I don't want it to destroy my new belt either, as it's a fairly big job to replace it again. What are the thoughts from you guys with a lot more experience than me with these bikes?
 
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Old Jan 22, 2026 | 02:35 PM
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looks alot like Mine..I do Not Know how one would run with Zero Contaminates...and therefore, No Fretting...
The Shape seems OK from my Armchair..shape of the teeth is what matters most...Me??? I run it...
 
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Old Jan 22, 2026 | 03:23 PM
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How many miles are on the belt?

How many miles are on the sprocket?
 
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Old Jan 22, 2026 | 03:23 PM
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If you were simply asking about that sprocket, I'd say run it. But knowing the front and belt will be new, by all means, go the extra money and replace the rear as well.
 
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Old Jan 22, 2026 | 03:47 PM
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If you have question about it now it's cheaper and mind easing to replace it now than fret over it forever.
 
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Old Jan 22, 2026 | 04:51 PM
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If it was my bike and my money I'd run it. If we're spending your money replace it
 
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Old Jan 22, 2026 | 05:24 PM
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Harley recommends replacing the sprockets when replacing the belt. Many people don't. I do.
 
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Old Jan 22, 2026 | 07:32 PM
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Thanks for all your replies. I'll probably leave it.The cost of the rear sprocket is more than the belt plus front sprocket. If it shortens the belt life by 25% I'd still be ahead to leave it be.
 
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Old Jan 23, 2026 | 06:48 AM
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If I were going to the trouble of replacing the front and the belt, I'd go ahead and swap out the rear too just for peace of mind.
 
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Old Jan 23, 2026 | 06:54 AM
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FWIW.
I`ve never seen one w/o "chipped" plating
 
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