Changing Sprockets (fail) Part 1 | 2023 Honda CB125F

Finding sprockets that actually fit this bike has proven rather difficult. Even my local bike mechanic had to get creative in finding a solution that might work. So here is Part One of my attempt to change sprockets on this bike.
Oh, and the solution I mentioned? Turns out this bike only has a 420 chain! That's basically a motorised bike chain! So we're upgrading the chain and both sprockets to 428 which is a much more readily available size.
I'm planning to go 13t front and 43t rear. And if that's TOO torquey and robs too much top end, at least I know I will have plenty of available options to fine tune the ratio. I didn't record, but I had the back wheel and sprocket off today, just mainly to make sure I COULD. The bike is currently back together again and all things considered, it wasn't a difficult job getting the rear sprocket off.

[@Bob-ts2tu]

I found myself that looking for parts in't always as easy as you would think, bearing in mind the honda cb125f is one of the most ubiquitous bikes on the market, and possibly because a fair bit has changed on the new 2021 model. for instance a local shop gave me the wrong oil filter after he himself had looked it up online, and when i wanted to find a side stand extension to make the bike more stable on uneven ground, couldnt find one that definifively said it fits the model. i also had trouble finding handlebar risers that i would be sure fit either. You also can't get a haynes manual (yet) as the model is new, which would have made my life a tad easier on a few things, as although i have an engineering background it isn't in motorbikes, but anyhoo i suppose it all leads to the fun and learning by experience when you do get it sorted lol. GL

[@NicksBikes]

I'm upping from a 420 chain and sprockets to 428. I expect clearances will be tight so I'll have to be on my guard for any fouling before I button it back up. I expect to run into a little trouble with the front chain guide, but I won't know for sure until I get the parts in my hot little hands, which should be tomorrow. Something that was supposed to be a 15 minute job is entering its 3rd day. Honda seems to have gone to a great deal of trouble to stop anyone screwing with this bike.

[@Bob-ts2tu]

@@NicksBikes My take on modifying anything (including motorbikes) is that unless i'm totally sure it will be to my advantage, i just use the standard set-up's, and am of the opinion that if the R&D team who spent milllions to design it, so deem it ships as standard with X & Y then who am i to think i know better lol. an example is after market exhausts, i don't want it louder or for any 'percieved' better performance, or to spend money when i'm just not sure, but then again won't knock anyone who wants to experiment. GL sorting it, and id be interested to know how it turns out.

[@NicksBikes]

Yeah I'm a big fan of F*ck Around and Find Out lol.
The best thing about swapping parts out such as sprockets and exhausts is that it's s simple matter to return it back to stock form. I tend to draw the line at cutting things up. I like doing the things that I can reverse if and when I cock it up.

[@ripmax333]

I also would like to find a some handle bar risers for this bike, maybe if I search for the older model might fit ? 🤔 damn I tought buying a Honda would be easy to find after market parts😅

[@utilisateurconfirme678]

The color of your bike is fire ! How did you got it ?

[@NicksBikes]

I ordered sight unseen from a bike dealer over the internet and only asked about the colour after I put down a deposit 🤣
The official name for the colour from Honda is Matte Axis Gray Metallic

[@RumWilliam]

I wouldn’t let you anywhere near my bike 😂

[@NicksBikes]

I'm not offering 🤣🤣🤣

[@tombartram7384]

So you have a fully enclosed chain (not fitted to UK version, more's the pity) and you're replacing the c&s kit?
How many miles have you covered?

[@NicksBikes]

I never could find sprockets that fit, so I had to keep it stock. My local bike shop really dug deep trying to find a solution but there doesn't seem to be any aftermarket for this model in Australia