links or no links?

[Sobottka]

 just changed to a larger rear sprocket today in prep for bhf. moved up 3 teeth but now my rear axle is all the way forward, about 1/2 inch shorter in wheelbase. is anything to be concerned about? how will this affect handling?add chain links or just run it?

[Super Dave]

It will change your wheel base, yeah.  Will change trail also.  Whether that is necessarily a good thing or a bad thing for your particular set up...I can't say with confidence.


Big trick is that the chain must allow the suspension to move.  You've got to check that before you use it the way it is.  If you're going to add only a link, I'd probably recommend putting on a different (longer) chain so that you don't have so many "weak links" in one spot.

Or you could put on a smaller countershaft sprocket.  They are pretty inexpensive compared to rear sprockets.

[Sobottka]

plenty of slack in chain...just wondering about handling/chassis. i take it this will add trail? i dont really want to change the bikes handling or set up too much. 

[Super Dave]

Yes, it will add trail.

Try it.  Might be better, might be worse.  You can change trail back by moving your forks or the length of your shock. 

[andy342]

Yep, it'll add trail by shortening the swingarm and slightly dropping the rear of the bike.

If you're worried about adding links, use rivet master links.  You can use as many as you want and it won't hurt a thing.