I posted the topic on "is 300ex too big for 12 year old" and had another thought. What about changing the gearing to slow it down at first, either by putting on a smaller front sprocket, or a larger back sprocket. This would give it more low end, and cut back on the top speed. As his experience grew, I could change it back to the stock sprockets.

I know this is the opposite side of the changing gearing questions, as most want to change it for more top end speed. Has anyone done this, and how much slower does it go by going 1 tooth smaller on the front, or 2-3 teeth larger on the back?

 

Dropping to a 12 tooth front will definately slow it down, you will be hitting the rev limit a lot sooner,so it should keep the speeds under control until the youngster gets the hang of it.Also,you can loosen up the throttle cable adjustment on the thumb throttle so it can't open the carb all the way, that will cut back power even more, and it only takes a minute to do.

 

it will slow it down but it will want to pop a wheelie much easier and he may get thrown off

 

i think id rather him poppin wheelies the hittin jumps full speed. nathan.