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Calculating the sprocket Gear Ratios

I've borrowed this from Helmut Clasen's Facebook page. Just a simple gear ratio calculator when changing sprockets on the motorcycle. Serves as a reminder what changes causes what result.

One practical example of it's use as described by Helmut:

"On my Zuendapp the standard GS ratio is 14-46 = 3.29 Ratio. But the chain was cutting through my front swingarm. In order to get more clearance I chose a 16 tooth front sprocket. To go back to the proper ratio of 3.29 ( or close to it) I had to increase the back sprocket to 53 = 3.31 which is almost identical."

Helmut is the most knowlegeable Hercules rider/owner/mechanic.


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Carburetor Tip

Nice tip for easily assembling the carburetor spring into the carburetor body without the excess tension that can make it hard to do.

Generally, I remove the carburetor cable from the throttle housing which also makes the task of rebuilding easier, but this tip has an advantage by eliminating that step.

My other concern with losing parts during a carburetor rebuild in the field, is that the float bowl pin has the habit of falling out. I don't have an answer for that problem except to carry a spare. Hopefully, one will never need to take the carburetor apart during a ride...

Solid advice from The YouTube Dirt Bike Channel

In general, in my opinion, this is probably the best advice just because it is so simple to understand. Adding or modifying the parts on motorcycles is not the answer to better performance. It is the rider's experience and "fitness" that matters more, at least until you reach the expert level. For the everyday rider, getting the most out of your motorcycle in it's stock condition will probably teach you more than making expensive changes before you need them.

Of course it is fun changing parts on our motorcycles, but I would bet 50% of those changes aren't actual improvements and can sometimes lead to disappointment.

While I agree with the video, it is targeted at modern bikes. The one exception to that advice I would make for vintage bikes would be new or better shocks. Much as new tires will be the one purchase that will make the most difference for any motorcycle, when a bike is 25 years old, 30 years old, or more, the best shock you can afford will make the biggest difference, it's rare that an old motorcycle will perform it's best with the original shocks.