Inline Performance Magazine |
| Posted: 19 Oct 2011 10:00 PM PDT |
Here at Inline Performance Magazine, we find every excuse we can to upgrade a stock part to a higher performance aftermarket version. Such was the case with our Project Corona GSX-R 600 Suzuki.
Since we were already planning on replacing the knackered chain that came with the bike, we opted to replace the well-worn sprockets as well. While we could have used another set of OEM sprockets, we opted to upgrade to a stronger and better looking set from Vortex.
At the drive sprocket end, we stuck with the same tooth count, but in the back we went for a one-tooth increase for a small boost in bottom end grunt at the expense of a little bit of top speed. Since the bike's top speed is at least double the legal limit anywhere in the vicinity anyway, it's a tradeoff well worth making.
There's nothing particularly hard about the changing the sprockets, but as the video shows, its all about having the right tool for the job. An air-powered impact gun would have made the task infinitely easier, but even with hand tools things went relatively smoothly.
Do make sure that you use allen sockets rather than the cheaper keys often found in entry-level toolkits, especially when taking off the allen bolt that holds the speed sensor wheel to the transmission's output shaft, because stripping the bolts head is a nightmare you don't want to live. Similarly, make sure to put the bike in gear and securely hold it in place while breaking loose the large nut that holds the drive sprocket onto the output shaft.
Also take car to make sure all the spacers and shims are in the proper spaces when installing the rear axle, or you're chain won't line up with the sprocket properly.
The Vortex sprockets fit perfectly, the machine work on both the nickel-plated front sprocket and aluminum rear was clean and tidy, and there were no blemishes in either of the part's surfaces. The aluminum rear sprocket weighs slightly more than the original Suzuki part, but makes up for it with better looks and more strength—and unless you're a seriously talented rider, you'll never feel the few extra grams anyway.
That's it for this time, but keep clicking back to watch the progress as we get Project Corona back on the road where it belongs.
Stay tuned for more updates, and be sure to order your copy of the 2011 print edition of Inline Performance Magazine HERE at the pre-order price until supplies last.
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