The rear sprocket on my 76 FLH is trashed along with the chain. So i am going to order new. My ride only likes about 65mph. Interstate speed might not be so bad some times. Any suggestions on front and rear sprocket sizes or should it be left alone. 5 speed trans are spendy so i thought a few more mph with the gearing maybe easier.
Also any suggestion on where to get a good chain and sprockets.....


Thanks

 

From what I've read 24/48 is a pretty good balance.

 

I believe stock was 23/51, at least on the FX, the FL may even be 22/51. I run a 25/51 setup on the FX, it cruises at 80 but it's hard pulling from a dead stop. I've tried 23/51 with close to the same results. I'm thinking I might go back to 24/51 this winter, a little higher RPM on the highway, a little more pull from the stop.

 

The problem with going to large on the transmission sprocket is wear on the starter housing. I like 23/49. Your FLH was 22/51 stock.

 

I'm running 22/47 on my FLH, it was suggested by my Indy, just breaking in the motor so I haven't got a feel on the Free way yet. Its set to run around 3k at 70. Factory was 22/51 but in 1978 the max was 55 limit. Don't remember what I changed my Lowrider too. Even with a 22T, if the chain gets loose it saws the inner Prim, so anything bigger you really gotta watch.
Try this:

Sprocket Ratio’s = RPM’s



It's simple to figure out:

1) Engine sprocket 24 t, clutch sprocket 37 t, 37/24 = 1.54 (std Primary)

2) Tranny sprocket 23 t, wheel sprocket 49 t, 49/23 = 2.13

1.54 x 2.13 = 3.28 final ratio.

If you have a 130/90-16-rear tire use the number 800.
(800 wheel revolutions in 1 mi) (63360 inches = 1 mi)

3) 800 x 75mph = 60,000 per hr
(Wheel revolutions in 1 hr)

60,000 / 60 minutes per hour = 1000
(1,000 revolutions in1 min)
4) 1000 x 3.28 final ratio = 3280 RPM

 

thanks, 23/49 dont pull hard from the start? i like the thought of more speed with less rpm but just wondering how that set up runs out as far as having power for hills or passing..... guess what i am asking is is it better than the stock set up because on mine there is nothing in 4th gear

 

Interesting solutions to your problem, or concern..The sprocket combination is costly time wise deal..If monies are kewl, look into changing the gearing in the tranny, You can get close ratio bottom end then space out at the top..It's hard to get it all with a 4 speed..Beuna seurte hombre..1904;Ruben
I usually push my slab up to 65+ and stay there, she likes it there..

 

just read more closely at your first post, and just an FYI you will get no more top end with a 5 speed than with a 4 speed. The final drive ratio is the same, most guys like their 5 speeds because they can gear up and not lose anything on the bottom because there are more gears to choose from. You don't get an overdrive in the trans until you go to a 6 speed. Also, as far as the chain and sprockets go, i'd avoid the taiwan ted versions, and I can't say i've heard anything good about the Diamond chains either. Get something made in the US of A or Japan and chances are you'll be happier with it.

 

He was referring to his FX which I believe has a higher ratio first gear. If your avatar is your bike then you have it stripped close to the weight of an FX and a taller gear like 23 or 24 / 49 should launch fine. Would help to be sure your first gear is FL not FX. Check the catalogs for the ratio, then in first gear, with derby off, with rear chain off mark sproket and clutch spring. Disengage clutch and crank clutch hub (kick or lectric) till you get 1 turn on the trans sprocket. About 3 turns I think, I believe Fx Ratio is about 2.8 turns of the clutch hub and FL is about 3.1.

andygears

 

Yes it is a 76 FLH. Its stock for the most part. Thanks for the reply andygears. I was planning on going with 23/49 but want to know what to expect or the stock setup. [