Gearing on a 2011 YZF 450

[dutchie21]

Hello All I finally made the switch to the 4 stroke world. I was just looking for some input re gearing for my 2011 YZF 450. Stock is 13/48 I want to gear it down a little but not sure if I want to go to a 49 or 50 on the rear. Is there any one out there who has changed the gearing with any input? I am a plus 30 rider who rides/races MX. Thanks for any advice you can offer

[Bhowell]

Here is a gear ratio chart
www.renthal.com/File/gearing_ratios.asp

I know on my 250f it's the same stock gearing , but I went up to a 51 rear and it gave me more bottom end but I would have to go threw the gears more for top speed, so in your case I would try a 50 tooth and see how it is or even maybe go up to a 14 tooth in the front but that chart will help you understand gearing a bit more and you can look at the ratio's and figure out what would work better or give you an idea... The bigger the number the more top speed and lower the number more acceleration aka bottom end pull

[Bhowell]

Sorry got confused the higher number the longer the gear ratio more bottom end and the lower number more speed

[Tim]

I personally would stick with the 48. Made the same mistake going to a bigger sprocket to get more bottom end. If a 450 doesn't have enough bottom end for you then, I don't know do the pipe or something. Slower starts, maybe to much torque in corners. At least try the 48 for a bit, change isn't always better.