Is anyone running a smaller front sprocket on their raptor. What are the pros and cons to this?

2002 Raptor

 

I havent had much experience with the gearing change in the 2002 raptor, but I know that my 2001 would probably benefit more since 1st 2nd and 3rd are so widely spaced. I climb alot of hills that have short runs and If I had a 12 tooth front sprocket it would be alot easier to get into the "meat" of second gear when attempting those hill climbs.

I havent changed mine from stock yet but am considering it when the chain and stock sprocket wear out. One thing to consider is the front chain slide will have alot shorter life span since the front sprocket would be smaller in diameter it will allow the chain to dig into the chain slide more. Possibly go up in size on the back sprocket to get around this.. may need another link or 2 in the chain to do that though

 

This is a mod usually considered by owners of the 2001 due to the large gap between 1st and 2nd. If you plan on modding your quad, I wouldn't do it. A change in the airbox, exhaust, and jetting will overcome the problems relating to this gap for the most part.

Pros:

1) Feels like you have more low end torque
2) 2nd gear pulls better when climbing hills
3) You might win a tractor pull over a 13/40 geared Raptor (see point #4 below - you might not even win a tractor pull).

Cons:

1) Lower top end speed
2) Additional wear on the front sprocket and on the chain from turning a slightly tighter radius
3) Robs a little engine power from the friction caused by the chain turning a tighter radius versus going with a 13/43 ratio. The 43 on the rear will require some modification to your skidplate thus lowering overall ground clearance.
4) Doubt you will gain in the holeshot department unless perhaps you are running on pavement. (Engine has plenty of power to turn over 13/40 gearing so a reduction to 12/40 is only going to reduce wheel speed.

/NotuRaptor

 

when i first got my raptor it tended to bog a bit in first, so i dropped in a 12t seemed to help gave more low end torque, but cut the top end. now i run 13/42 combo gives a bit more on the bottom without cutting as much from the top. countershaft sprockets are cheap and relatively easy to install, the usefullness depends on your riding trails and style

 

it made a huge diff. in mine! if u like to climb big hills go with the 12th, just point at it and it will climb it. the dunes i got to has short runs also and it just flies up those hills! but it kills ur chain so??? like they said it all depends on what u like to ride?

 

12 is the way to go. just don't go with sidewinder. my 2 cents.