You're one informative gentleman, Woodzman! Very articulate and to the point, which I tremendously appreciated. Followed your instructions and now my bike is running smooth. I purchased the exact D.I.D. chain you included in this video, which fit perfectly. You can definitely tell you're a master mechanic, it's quite enjoyable not only riding your bike but understanding how it functions too. Thank you again! Cheers from Tampa, FL!
I recently did this for first time plus riveting chain. Great instructions in this video. Only thing I'd like to add for people reading comments is use a new or newish 6mm allen at the back sprocket to hold it and brake it loose while on the bike. I used my very old usual work set and kind of made 2 bolt heads into a torx lol. Went and bought new 6mm allen for 1/2" wrench head and no effort for those 2 and remaining 4. Since the allen head isnt very deep you need new or newish tools.
Thanks a bunch! Out here in and Japan just today I put a new front and rear sprocket and chain on my 2015 crf250l. The info in your video was invaluable. Much appreciated! (I did round a allen bolt head on the rear sprocket, even though I tried my hardest not to. Drilled into the bolt and then hammered in a torx bit to get it out. And bought a new set of bolts. All's well that ends well.)
I have a CRF 230L and I had a 1994 GS500. Both are 6 speed bikes. The GS500 benefited when I added one tooth to the front sprocket. Everything got better. It was smooth as butter and was just as quick if you stayed in the lower gear a little longer. No Sacrifice and all gain as far as I was concerned. It would cruise smoothly down the interstate for 200 miles until it needed gas. 58 MPG.
thank you for the tips mr woodsman... i have one suggestion though... what i do with the locking clip of the chain is slide it with a pair of good old pliers to its locking position... in that manner i wont stretch and deform the locking clip... i have learned alot from you, thank you...
Thanks for a very informative tutorial, I'm in Australia and bought the 2018 CRF250l today. I got it for a mix of sealed and unsealed roads and for cattle work in hilly country, no doubt I will be changing out sprockets /chain in the near future and will be referring to this video.
I just completed this mod on my 2020 CRF250L and really like the 42T so far. I purchased both parts recommended here. I found this video very helpful and would note the 106 link chain seemed to fit perfectly which is the factory link count as well. Appreciate the video!
If you like the vise grip trick used as a press, Get you some knipex pliers. Little pricey, but absolutely universal hand tool. Love the content woodzman, been binging your crf videos.
Great tutorial. Thx! Question: Do you feel going from the 40 to 42 tooth sprocket is enough to allow 2nd gear to be the technical riding/climbing gear? I see guys doing this then going to the 13 tooth front on top of this because they want even lower gearing. Your thoughts? With the stock gearing I almost have to use 1st gear for technical climbs when I should be using 2nd and slipping the clutch. No way to do this with the stock gearing coupled with the low power output of the motor. Thx!
Hate to bother you , cuz I know you're busy with the house, but you did post a link to the specific chain. There's various lengths, etc., very confusing for new MC enthusiasts! ;)
Thank you for your input on the 13t front , when i bought this bike used it had tge 13t on it . Previous owner gave me the 14t i will definitely be putting it back on.
Hey Woodzman, just did your x chain and 42t install and was wondering what you use to clean your chains. Lots of conflicting info o2ut there whether my old kerosene method is ok or or not. Thanks for your greeat videos. Hope you enjoy Arizona!!
My rear sprocket bolts were FUSED tight. Ended up stripping 3 of the 6 allen (hex) bolts... any advice? Proactively using some penetrating oil on the threads seems like a wise idea. Also, if the bolt is stripped you can hammer in a slightly bigger torx bit for a fresh bite. If that fails, cut a notch in the bolt head with a Dremel and use a chisel + hammer to get the bolt to rotate that first bit and let go, after that it's easy. Curious if I'm missing other tricks??
That sounds right. The most common problem that causes it is people will try to turn the Allen bolts. The Allen is just to hold it what turning the hex nuts. I have had it happen also and used a slightly larger torx bit hammered in like you mentioned and it worked. Just remember to only turn the nuts
I may have missed it, but did you mention your front sprocket size? Is it 13 or 14? And you didn't need to buy a larger chain? Just the oem 106 links? Thank you!
Doing the job this weekend. I loosened the sprocket bolts yesterday before putting the bike on the stand, they are OE sprocket and bolts, certainly were not tight, could you tell us what the torque setting should be when bolting back up, thanks
I don’t torque them because it’s to hard to get to the nut with a socket and torque wrench. You can’t really torque them right either the Allen side. I just tighten them but not extremely tight or you may not get them to break lose the next time
Frank...chain slack same for 225 lb rider as a 175 lb rider...tension on chain is different..am I over thinking? No 42 sunstars available ....anywhere...
Question: so when measuring my chain slack/tension, my chain actually hits the bottom of the swing arm... even though it's actually under the 35mm 'distance' specified by the manual. Not sure how I should measure the tension because I don't have a 'tight to tight' range. I do believe the previous owner put a smaller front sprocket on, perhaps that's the culprit?
not as long as you have the same amount of teeth and the same amount of links. If your factory chain has streched then the wheel should have been moved back anyway.
Hi Woodzman, I’ve been enjoying your videos for quite some time. Last week I bought a 2014 Crf250L with 2500 miles. I really like it but I would appreciate your feedback. She runs great, I like top speed, 74 mph. I would like to get just a bit more torque, low to mid range. Without sacrificing my top speed. What do you think? New pipe with EJK? (I’m not too mechanically inclined) Work a sprocket change scenario? I don’t need alot more torque but a little more would be great. Thank you Rick
I think you best bet would be to change out your rear 40 tooth sprocket out for a 42 tooth. This will give you more torque and your top end will still be there but just a few more rpm’s In my opinion the FMF helps with top end but the stock exhaust has more torque. I had an EJK and FMF Q4 but went back to stock
If you only change the rear sprocket to 42T, will it affect the reading on the speedometer? I changed the front to 13T from stock and my speedometer shows about 7% higher than my actual speed. I'm thinking on changing the front back to stock and change the rear to 42T. Thanks!
Hey Frank, is it ok to use the Stock chain with a 14/42 setup? I see with the new chain you are installing there you have the adjustment mark in the grey area left of the green and red marks, so I am assuming its ok like that? I just installed a 42T rear and just have the stock chain, was a little worried to see the adjustment mark about 1/4" away from the green. Did you have any issues with that lower chain guide at all? I had to flip the rubber block for a tad more clearance.
Another question. I think I need to remove another link in my chain but I have already put it together, can I remove the link I used to connect the two ends of the chain and reuse it or do I need a new link?
WOODZMAN I did get the master link with the clip and your technique went great, I was just unsure of once I removed the clip and shortened the chain could I reuse the clip I removed.
@@WOODZMAN I made one from a HDPE cutting board for my 83 XR200R but haven't got it all back together. Nobody I know of has one except an overpriced Ebay part. Anyways I wasn't sure if I should get a spare for my 250l rally I bought last month. It now has 1k on it.🙂
Great video. Was just thinking about a different rear sprocket for my 250l. Tried the 13 on the front and went back to stock. Geared a little too low for me plus I’m like you and don’t like the extra wear on the slider. Do you know if the 42t rear will work with the stock chain.
Thanks so much for the video. How did you make sure you axle was straight, is it just matching up the notches at the bottom? Also do you have to tighten up the axle on a stand? Thanks for your help.
You could change the rear sprocket to a 42 tooth or a 45 tooth. With a 42 you can use the stock chain length. With a 45 you will have a lot more low end torque but you will need a longer chain
Thanks for the vid. Was putting the new chain on and noticed the front sprocket can wiggle.....two 10mm are snug/tight and it wiggles a little....do you know if this is correct? Looked everywhere I can think and cant find anyone comment on this. Thanks
@@WOODZMAN also you are totally right about the bike bogging down when you accelerate around 5K rpm in high gears. U feel that jolt as it tries to keep up with the throttle, Is that hard on my bike?
Sorry for the dated question but I am in the process of swapping my rear sprocket to a 42 like yourself and I'm wondering how many links you ended up with?
@@WOODZMAN thank you sir. I was going to run 108 but it looked like I wouldn't have much adjustment for wear but 106 looked too close to the tire guard/swingarm(factory size tire) I'll give it another look.
Awesome videos! Would a 15t front sprocket fit? I know you're against it but I bought a crf250l with a 45t rear sprocket and I want to gear it up a bit.
The problem with going larger with ethe front sprocket is the metal guard that goes around the sprocket will not fit anything larger and there is now way I would take a chance and ride without it, you could break your engine case. It my be more expensive to try a different rear sprocket but you will sure be better off
So, I watched this video and didn't take your advice and installed a 13T sprocket in the front as well as the 42T sprocket in the rear. I have already noticed a rubbing noise while riding along. I assume the chain is rubbing on the plastic guide on the swingarm. Any advice? Should I just remove the 13T and put the 14T back on? How are all these other people changing the sprocket and not talking about this problem?
I definitely would put the 14 back on, I think if you want it lower geared more that a 14/42 then it’s best to go with 14/45. I just wouldn’t down size the front.
@@WOODZMAN Thanks for the quick response!! I was afraid you were going to say that. The rear sprockets are just a little pricey though, right? I just wanted some inexpensive torque increase. I didn't notice a huge difference with the front sprocket anyway. I test rode it first with the 42T and then with 13T. Maybe down the rode I'll consider the 45T rear.
@@WOODZMAN Like Zachary mentions, A LOT of people do the 13 tooth front sprocket change without any talk of excessive chain wear or wearing through the plastic guide. Is this plastic guide on the swingarm a replaceable part when it wears ?
Do you think being a half inch away from the mud flap on the swing arm is ok? I have an inch now but want to get the motoz tire and can only get them in a 120/90. Thanks for any help.
@@WOODZMAN In your video, great btw much appreciated, you comment about not adjusting the chain to far forward if you have a larger diameter tire. I'm pretty far forward and only have an inch of clearance from the mudflap with a 120/80 stock tire. The Motoz is a taller 120/90 tire so I think I will only have a half inch of clearance between the taller tire and the mudflap. Your comment on the video made me wonder if the new taller tire would now be to close and hit the swing arm mudflap.
when i was younger we used splip liks to joing our chain, there was always a tigh spot on the chain from uneven wearing caused by the split link, my mate has a enduro 400.cc with a split link , not endless chain like i have, i think split links streach mutch more than endless riveted chains..
Thanks to u I own a 18 CRF250L now! Love it! My question is, is going to either a 13T or going to a 42T going to be the same? In other words dropping one tooth upfront the same as dropping 2 teeth in the back do u get the same results?
Thank you for taking the time to reply, two more questions (sorry) when ordering the zeta hand guards do the come with everything u need to install or do u need to order the two extra pieces with it? And as far as tires go I do mainly 80/20 80 on road! Looking for best bang for the buck to get most mileage. What do u recommend? Thank u again I truly appreciate ur videos and all ur help!
Jason Garner the hand guards you buy the shields separate, I would recommend the Shinko 700 series. I have all the CRF250L stuff in my Amazon store www.amazon.com/shop/woodzmanadventures
Is the 106 link long enough? I have the same exact chain with stock front and 42 rear like yours. Just asking because I bought a 106 which is stock length I believe. An extra 2 teeth on the 42 wont make me need a longer one? Lol if so then I'll have to take back the 106 link. Thanks.
It is on mine, I put mine on the side stand and the shock it unloaded. Put yours o. The side stand the. Lean the bike over toward the side stand and see if you there is any sag
Greetings from Colorado! Quick question...How many links remain on your new chain, 106, 108, 110? We live at 8500 ft and I ride my 250L between 10,000 to 13,000+ ft and plan to install a 45 T rear sprocket.
Greetings from Colorado! You did a video for a TST tail cover plate fix which was excellent ! Do you have the measurements for your plastic cover plate? Your site is great, by the way.....
How much does this 42T sprocket change or affect the speedometer? I truly appreciate your videos. Easy to see you're a very experience mechanic....Thank you!
Excellent video man i cannot wait to install my new setup. I am on the fence between a 42T and a 44T. I do mostly street riding, a mix of stop and go and highway riding with a max speed of 75mph. Any experience with a 44T and you think its worth the acceleration increase or will a 42 be more appropriate for my riding style?
The 42 is better for off road but it’s not a huge difference, it’s still not bad on the highway. I haven’t tried a 44 but I’m sure it would be a lot better off road but you would lose the highway speeds without high RPMs
I try to make my videos detailed and this is the way I have done it for over 30 years. There will be some who disagree I'm sure lol Thanks for watching !
Oh I was going to mention that the WR250R has a front 13 tooth sprocket, and they are prone to wearing through the chain guide. There is a guy who suggest to take the 13 tooth sprocket off and replace with 14/47 instead of the 13/43 that it comes with and the gearing will be the same and no bad wear. Very interesting
I have a HUGE question about this. Why everyone is changing sprockets on this bike to have more torque ? To me it seems it has all the RPMs from stock to climb anywhere. first gear has so big ratio it almost has no use for me. What i don"t like about this bike it has enough power to go faster than it does. I'm actually thinking to to lower RPM and increase top speed that means to do exact opposite with sprockets what everybody else do. I would really like to see some comments from wise owners. Cheers
Well adding a larger rear sprocket like a 42 tooth does improve the low end torque and help to lug around at lower RPMs in the woods. Now you would think that because it is also making more RPMs on the Highway that is would be slower and this is controversial, some say and I do agree to some extent, the 250L does not have enough power to rev out good in 6th gear so the lower gearing helps with the higher RPMs. I do believe that the larger rear sprocket helps it to not lug as much through the gears but I do know that if people with the stock gearing would just run it up to a higher RPM before shifting, the bike does a great job.
Just my opinion . I dont like how you set the master link . You bend it. That distorts the mast clip. You have the large hole. You put the clip in place and slip it on to lock it. The way you bend one side to put it over the pins is not good.
One more thing, sorry to bother you. You should pause when you get to those secret tricks you have when doing this stuff for example the rag in the sprocket, you should pause at that point and remind us to hit the like button, because you have way more views than likes, and I think we are just forgetting.
Excellent! You are my TH-cam go to guy for CRF250L maintenance videos. Thanks WOODZMAN ADVENTURES!
Your welcome thanks for watchin!
You're one informative gentleman, Woodzman! Very articulate and to the point, which I tremendously appreciated. Followed your instructions and now my bike is running smooth. I purchased the exact D.I.D. chain you included in this video, which fit perfectly. You can definitely tell you're a master mechanic, it's quite enjoyable not only riding your bike but understanding how it functions too. Thank you again! Cheers from Tampa, FL!
Your so welcome, I’m glad to help.
Thanks for watchin
I recently did this for first time plus riveting chain. Great instructions in this video. Only thing I'd like to add for people reading comments is use a new or newish 6mm allen at the back sprocket to hold it and brake it loose while on the bike. I used my very old usual work set and kind of made 2 bolt heads into a torx lol. Went and bought new 6mm allen for 1/2" wrench head and no effort for those 2 and remaining 4. Since the allen head isnt very deep you need new or newish tools.
Thanks a bunch! Out here in and Japan just today I put a new front and rear sprocket and chain on my 2015 crf250l. The info in your video was invaluable. Much appreciated! (I did round a allen bolt head on the rear sprocket, even though I tried my hardest not to. Drilled into the bolt and then hammered in a torx bit to get it out. And bought a new set of bolts. All's well that ends well.)
Yea it’s crazy how easy they will round out
Nice and slow and easy to follow. No drama, just good solid mechanics!
Thanks ! Glad to help
I have a CRF 230L and I had a 1994 GS500. Both are 6 speed bikes. The GS500 benefited when I added one tooth to the front sprocket. Everything got better. It was smooth as butter and was just as quick if you stayed in the lower gear a little longer. No Sacrifice and all gain as far as I was concerned. It would cruise smoothly down the interstate for 200 miles until it needed gas. 58 MPG.
I had a GS550 years ago
@@WOODZMAN I bought mine with 13k miles and took it up to 40k. It ran fine when I sold it. No leaks no blue smoke. Ready for more.
Oh yea
thank you for the tips mr woodsman... i have one suggestion though... what i do with the locking clip of the chain is slide it with a pair of good old pliers to its locking position... in that manner i wont stretch and deform the locking clip... i have learned alot from you, thank you...
Thanks, yea I should have showed it in the video that it can be done both ways
Thank you for all the tips/tricks and great information. I learned so much watching this video :)
Thanks for watchin
I went with a 13 tooth up front it definitely improved highway ridding.
Yea a 42 in the rear is not quite as much as a 13 in the front
You are an excellent teacher. A lot of extra tip for us rookies thx for your time.
Thanks for watchin
Thank you for the thorough video, helped me put a 45t rear sprocket and new chain on my crf250l. Works a treat 👍🏻
Awesome, thanks for watchin
Does the ruler touch the swing arm for measure metal or the rubber chain slider? Thanks.
Touch the metal of the swing arm
Thanks for a very informative tutorial, I'm in Australia and bought the 2018 CRF250l today. I got it for a mix of sealed and unsealed roads and for cattle work in hilly country, no doubt I will be changing out sprockets /chain in the near future and will be referring to this video.
Your welcome, thanks for watching
Really great video. Clear video and explanation, well paced. Thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge.
Your welcome, thanks for watchin
I just completed this mod on my 2020 CRF250L and really like the 42T so far. I purchased both parts recommended here. I found this video very helpful and would note the 106 link chain seemed to fit perfectly which is the factory link count as well. Appreciate the video!
Your welcome!
Glad to help.
@@WOODZMAN so the factory chain should work with the 42t ? Or do you need to change the chain as well?
So you used the same chain?
It will work fine with 42T.
If you like the vise grip trick used as a press,
Get you some knipex pliers. Little pricey, but absolutely universal hand tool.
Love the content woodzman, been binging your crf videos.
I would like to try them
Great work and detailed explanations. Thanks for sharing and Happy Trails Woodzman
Your welcome thanks for watchin
nice one. Can you cut the cain with a regular metal saw ?
Well you don’t need to cut the chain, just grind the pin heads off
@@WOODZMAN I do not have a grinder ^^ that's why
this is an older video, but do you remember what tire (s) you have installed during this video?
Yes that is the OEM IRC tires that came on the bike
@WOODZMAN how many links does a 44 rear and 14 front take?
I figured 110 links?
Is that seem right to you?
Great tutorial. Thx! Question: Do you feel going from the 40 to 42 tooth sprocket is enough to allow 2nd gear to be the technical riding/climbing gear? I see guys doing this then going to the 13 tooth front on top of this because they want even lower gearing. Your thoughts? With the stock gearing I almost have to use 1st gear for technical climbs when I should be using 2nd and slipping the clutch. No way to do this with the stock gearing coupled with the low power output of the motor. Thx!
A 2 tooth change in the rear is very little. A 45 tooth will do what you want.
Another excellent how-to video with great explanation. Clear and concise!
Thanks John, I try to just tell it in detail the way it is
Hate to bother you , cuz I know you're busy with the house, but you did post a link to the specific chain. There's various lengths, etc., very confusing for new MC enthusiasts! ;)
This is the chain I got, I did have to cut it to the right length www.crfsonly.com/catalog/product_info.php/products_id/4590
Enjoy your videos, just went on a 300 mile trip only had wd40 to lube chain at begining of trip return with completely trashed chain
If it’s an o-ring chain, 300 miles wouldn’t hurt it. Chain lube would be better for sure, usually that is caused by the chain being to tight.
Thanks
does a DID 520 VX3 chain also work ? (upgrade on VX2 ?)
Thank you for your input on the 13t front , when i bought this bike used it had tge 13t on it . Previous owner gave me the 14t i will definitely be putting it back on.
Your welcome thanks for watchin
I like the spare nut idea for putting the clip on. Thanks for the video.
Your welcome ! Thanks for watching
Hey Woodzman, just did your x chain and 42t install and was wondering what you use to clean your chains. Lots of conflicting info o2ut there whether my old kerosene method is ok or or not. Thanks for your greeat videos. Hope you enjoy Arizona!!
That is what I use, Kerosene is a low cost and I have used it for years.
Works great and don’t hurt the chain
My rear sprocket bolts were FUSED tight. Ended up stripping 3 of the 6 allen (hex) bolts... any advice? Proactively using some penetrating oil on the threads seems like a wise idea. Also, if the bolt is stripped you can hammer in a slightly bigger torx bit for a fresh bite. If that fails, cut a notch in the bolt head with a Dremel and use a chisel + hammer to get the bolt to rotate that first bit and let go, after that it's easy. Curious if I'm missing other tricks??
That sounds right. The most common problem that causes it is people will try to turn the Allen bolts. The Allen is just to hold it what turning the hex nuts. I have had it happen also and used a slightly larger torx bit hammered in like you mentioned and it worked. Just remember to only turn the nuts
I may have missed it, but did you mention your front sprocket size? Is it 13 or 14?
And you didn't need to buy a larger chain? Just the oem 106 links? Thank you!
Front is stock 14. Stock chain fits
@WOODZMAN sweet, thank you so much. I'm in the process of doing the exact same
Doing the job this weekend. I loosened the sprocket bolts yesterday before putting the bike on the stand, they are OE sprocket and bolts, certainly were not tight, could you tell us what the torque setting should be when bolting back up, thanks
I don’t torque them because it’s to hard to get to the nut with a socket and torque wrench. You can’t really torque them right either the Allen side.
I just tighten them but not extremely tight or you may not get them to break lose the next time
Can i put 14/45 sprokets on the stock chain ?
I think the largest you can go on the rear is a 42 with the stock chain
Ok thanks.
which chainlenght do you need for this setup (14-42) on a CRF 250L ?
The stock chain length will fit.
what do you think about a 14-43 conversion ? 42 is very difficult to find here
43 would be a good choice also
Frank...chain slack same for 225 lb rider as a 175 lb rider...tension on chain is different..am I over thinking? No 42 sunstars available ....anywhere...
Weight should matter, that slack is for the travel of the suspension from top to bottomed out
Man no gloves! When grinding.
I love your videos.
Please be safe.
Oh my
Question: so when measuring my chain slack/tension, my chain actually hits the bottom of the swing arm... even though it's actually under the 35mm 'distance' specified by the manual. Not sure how I should measure the tension because I don't have a 'tight to tight' range. I do believe the previous owner put a smaller front sprocket on, perhaps that's the culprit?
Have the bike on the kick stand. Measure from the pins on the chain. You don’t force it, just till it tightens
If I am only replacing the chain and front sprocket (Keeping everything OEM sizing) will I need to remove the back wheel?
not as long as you have the same amount of teeth and the same amount of links.
If your factory chain has streched then the wheel should have been moved back anyway.
Hi Woodzman, I’ve been enjoying your videos for quite some time. Last week I bought a 2014 Crf250L with 2500 miles. I really like it but I would appreciate your feedback.
She runs great, I like top speed, 74 mph. I would like to get just a bit more torque, low to mid range. Without sacrificing my top speed.
What do you think?
New pipe with EJK? (I’m not too mechanically inclined)
Work a sprocket change scenario?
I don’t need alot more torque but a little more would be great.
Thank you
Rick
I think you best bet would be to change out your rear 40 tooth sprocket out for a 42 tooth.
This will give you more torque and your top end will still be there but just a few more rpm’s
In my opinion the FMF helps with top end but the stock exhaust has more torque.
I had an EJK and FMF Q4 but went back to stock
If you only change the rear sprocket to 42T, will it affect the reading on the speedometer? I changed the front to 13T from stock and my speedometer shows about 7% higher than my actual speed. I'm thinking on changing the front back to stock and change the rear to 42T. Thanks!
Yes it will change it about 4-5 mph higher
I love watching you work on stuff. Usually learn a trick or two, haha.
Thanks for watching, the RPM and Speedo test will be up later this evening.
Hey Frank, is it ok to use the Stock chain with a 14/42 setup?
I see with the new chain you are installing there you have the adjustment mark in the grey area left of the green and red marks, so I am assuming its ok like that? I just installed a 42T rear and just have the stock chain, was a little worried to see the adjustment mark about 1/4" away from the green. Did you have any issues with that lower chain guide at all? I had to flip the rubber block for a tad more clearance.
Yes the stock chain works fine with a 42 tooth on the rear. No problems at all on mine
Another question. I think I need to remove another link in my chain but I have already put it together, can I remove the link I used to connect the two ends of the chain and reuse it or do I need a new link?
You didn’t get the master link with the clip?
I have reused the brad type but you have to be careful not to mess it up when you remove it
WOODZMAN I did get the master link with the clip and your technique went great, I was just unsure of once I removed the clip and shortened the chain could I reuse the clip I removed.
What if i don’t have a torque wrench?😅
Just tighten it, just don’t try to strong arm it
Have you needed to replace the rear chain guide and if so how long do they last?
I have never replaced one, I think if you have your chain adjusted right then you won’t. Unless you break it
@@WOODZMAN I made one from a HDPE cutting board for my 83 XR200R but haven't got it all back together. Nobody I know of has one except an overpriced Ebay part. Anyways I wasn't sure if I should get a spare for my 250l rally I bought last month. It now has 1k on it.🙂
Fantastic tip with vice grips 👍
Does that mess with the speedometer?
Yes about 3mph
Awesome video. Thanks for the walk through.
Thanks for watchin
Excellent how to video, Woodzman. You make it look easy my friend.
Thanks, it gets that way after 40 years lol
Great video. Was just thinking about a different rear sprocket for my 250l. Tried the 13 on the front and went back to stock. Geared a little too low for me plus I’m like you and don’t like the extra wear on the slider. Do you know if the 42t rear will work with the stock chain.
Yes it will work with your stock chain and it wont gear it down as much as the 13 on the front
Thanks so much for the video. How did you make sure you axle was straight, is it just matching up the notches at the bottom? Also do you have to tighten up the axle on a stand? Thanks for your help.
Yes you align the notches on the bottom with the dot. I tighten the axel while it’s on the stand
WOODZMAN On the side stand?
Oh, you can, just make sure both sides are the same and it will work
Any idea what I will need on the back to get the maximum power in 1st and 2nd gear? I’m not worried about going 65/70mph
You could change the rear sprocket to a 42 tooth or a 45 tooth.
With a 42 you can use the stock chain length. With a 45 you will have a lot more low end torque but you will need a longer chain
Ok thanks
Well maybe you can answer this question. First gear is not enough and second gear is too much to lug around. Will the gear change make second lower?
Yes it will make all the gears lower
Thanks for the vid. Was putting the new chain on and noticed the front sprocket can wiggle.....two 10mm are snug/tight and it wiggles a little....do you know if this is correct? Looked everywhere I can think and cant find anyone comment on this. Thanks
It is normal for it to wiggle a little bit.
Your welcome thanks for watchin
@@WOODZMAN hey thx for the reply, have a happy 4th!
Happy 4th
What sprocket size combo would you recommend for higher top speed if I’m going to mainly be riding highways and paved roads?
I would recommend stock but if you want lower RPMs in 6th gear you could try a 38 on the rear
@@WOODZMAN also you are totally right about the bike bogging down when you accelerate around 5K rpm in high gears. U feel that jolt as it tries to keep up with the throttle, Is that hard on my bike?
Oh no it’s not a problem
Thank you, I bless you’re day
Thanks for watchin
Sorry for the dated question but I am in the process of swapping my rear sprocket to a 42 like yourself and I'm wondering how many links you ended up with?
42 tooth on the rear will work with the stock chain. 106 links
@@WOODZMAN thank you sir. I was going to run 108 but it looked like I wouldn't have much adjustment for wear but 106 looked too close to the tire guard/swingarm(factory size tire) I'll give it another look.
It should work fine, it’s working on mine right now and it also worked on my 2014
Awesome videos! Would a 15t front sprocket fit? I know you're against it but I bought a crf250l with a 45t rear sprocket and I want to gear it up a bit.
The problem with going larger with ethe front sprocket is the metal guard that goes around the sprocket will not fit anything larger and there is now way I would take a chance and ride without it, you could break your engine case. It my be more expensive to try a different rear sprocket but you will sure be better off
hello 2013 model crf 250 l front sprocket 13t rear sprocket 40 t chain 520 can it be installed? thanks
Yes
@@WOODZMAN
thanks
So, I watched this video and didn't take your advice and installed a 13T sprocket in the front as well as the 42T sprocket in the rear. I have already noticed a rubbing noise while riding along. I assume the chain is rubbing on the plastic guide on the swingarm. Any advice? Should I just remove the 13T and put the 14T back on? How are all these other people changing the sprocket and not talking about this problem?
I definitely would put the 14 back on, I think if you want it lower geared more that a 14/42 then it’s best to go with 14/45. I just wouldn’t down size the front.
@@WOODZMAN Thanks for the quick response!! I was afraid you were going to say that. The rear sprockets are just a little pricey though, right? I just wanted some inexpensive torque increase. I didn't notice a huge difference with the front sprocket anyway. I test rode it first with the 42T and then with 13T. Maybe down the rode I'll consider the 45T rear.
That would be your best bet.
@@WOODZMAN Like Zachary mentions, A LOT of people do the 13 tooth front sprocket change without any talk of excessive chain wear or wearing through the plastic guide. Is this plastic guide on the swingarm a replaceable part when it wears ?
Do you think being a half inch away from the mud flap on the swing arm is ok? I have an inch now but want to get the motoz tire and can only get them in a 120/90. Thanks for any help.
Yea it worked on mine with a 130
@@WOODZMAN In your video, great btw much appreciated, you comment about not adjusting the chain to far forward if you have a larger diameter tire. I'm pretty far forward and only have an inch of clearance from the mudflap with a 120/80 stock tire. The Motoz is a taller 120/90 tire so I think I will only have a half inch of clearance between the taller tire and the mudflap. Your comment on the video made me wonder if the new taller tire would now be to close and hit the swing arm mudflap.
I think 1/2” should be ok, you just don’t want it hitting the mud flap when the suspension compresses, it will rip the flap off
@@WOODZMAN Thx. Again thanks for the vids
Your welcome thanks for watchin
my mayes got a split chain , not endless and he has a large high point in the chain already, id like to go down the endless chain route,,
I’m not sure what you are saying
when i was younger we used splip liks to joing our chain, there was always a tigh spot on the chain from uneven wearing caused by the split link, my mate has a enduro 400.cc with a split link , not endless chain like i have, i think split links streach mutch more than endless riveted chains..
Oh ok, not I gotcha ! Your exactly right
Thanks to u I own a 18 CRF250L now! Love it! My question is, is going to either a 13T or going to a 42T going to be the same? In other words dropping one tooth upfront the same as dropping 2 teeth in the back do u get the same results?
Thanks, It’s really close some say up 3 on the rear is same as down 1 on the front.
Thank you for taking the time to reply, two more questions (sorry) when ordering the zeta hand guards do the come with everything u need to install or do u need to order the two extra pieces with it? And as far as tires go I do mainly 80/20 80 on road! Looking for best bang for the buck to get most mileage. What do u recommend? Thank u again I truly appreciate ur videos and all ur help!
By two pieces I mean the end pieces to fit ur handlebar
Jason Garner the hand guards you buy the shields separate, I would recommend the Shinko 700 series.
I have all the CRF250L stuff in my Amazon store
www.amazon.com/shop/woodzmanadventures
Hey WOODZMAN, have you ever found anything after market to replace the ridiculous front brake line?
Sure have, Do a search for Woodzman brake line.
WOODZMAN ADVENTURES woodsman break line
Woodzman with a z
Is the 106 link long enough?
I have the same exact chain with stock front and 42 rear like yours.
Just asking because I bought a 106 which is stock length I believe.
An extra 2 teeth on the 42 wont make me need a longer one?
Lol if so then I'll have to take back the 106 link.
Thanks.
Adding the 42 tooth rear you can still use yours stock length chain, 106.
What's the torque spec on the rear sprocket?
Chain slack 45mm
Slack measurement with the bike leaning to the side stand?
Straight tolerance load?
With lift up?
On mine being on the side stand is the same as being lifted off the ground.
Thank you for your answer.
Same condition as rally?
It is on mine, I put mine on the side stand and the shock it unloaded. Put yours o. The side stand the. Lean the bike over toward the side stand and see if you there is any sag
What gearing / exhaust / EJK / 305cc Big Bore changes did you make to your bike?
Can you leave a link to the chain you used?
Sure can amzn.to/38CNZYv
Greetings from Colorado! Quick question...How many links remain on your new chain, 106, 108, 110? We live at 8500 ft and I ride my 250L between 10,000 to 13,000+ ft and plan to install a 45 T rear sprocket.
I don’t remember how many links, When I installed the 42 tooth, I didn’t have to add any
Thank you, sir, for your response. I have your vid’s from gas tanks to sprocket changes!
Greetings from Colorado! You did a video for a TST tail cover plate fix which was excellent ! Do you have the measurements for your plastic cover plate? Your site is great, by the way.....
Gary Hughes thanks. No I didn’t take measurements. I just held the plastic up to it. Heated it and bent it to fit
How much does this 42T sprocket change or affect the speedometer? I truly appreciate your videos. Easy to see you're a very experience mechanic....Thank you!
I am going to check today on my way home from work
Posting video tonight
you can check this at www.gearingcommander.com/
I don't ride hwy, just ridge roads and mountain trails. Would a 43, 45, or 47 tooth work better?
It sure would. I wouldn’t change the the front, just the rear. You might try the 45 first.
Okay, thanks. I've only had the bike a few weeks. Moved up from a TW200.
Oh cool, then you will like the 250L
I only have 1700 miles on mine and want to try the 42 tooth sprocket. Were the chain lengths the same, or am I going to have to get a new chain?
The stock chain should work, it did on mine
Thanks!
Excellent video man i cannot wait to install my new setup. I am on the fence between a 42T and a 44T. I do mostly street riding, a mix of stop and go and highway riding with a max speed of 75mph. Any experience with a 44T and you think its worth the acceleration increase or will a 42 be more appropriate for my riding style?
40T would be more appropriate.
The 42 is better for off road but it’s not a huge difference, it’s still not bad on the highway.
I haven’t tried a 44 but I’m sure it would be a lot better off road but you would lose the highway speeds without high RPMs
What is the torque spec for the rear sprocket bolts?
I don’t torque them. Just tighten the nuts tight while holding the Allen bolts
Can you fit a 42t sprocket on a new bike with the stock chain?
You sure can
@@WOODZMAN Thanks !! Great videos. I've learned a ton from your channel. I plan to get a new 2018 CRF250L (leftover stock) in the next month or so.
You make it look easy! Thanks for sharing!
It is pretty easy after you do it a few times.
Thanks again, I can’t wait to get mine, and I have all your videos so I can do the same thing. I will do a video when I get it. Thanks again
Awesome, shoot me a link when you do
Some great little tips. Thank you 😎
Your welcome
Will the stock chain work with the 42 tooth sprocket?
Sure will !
@@WOODZMAN Thank you. Will be doing after I ge teh bike broke in!
How much of the torque is recommended for the bolts?
I am not sure, I will to try to remember to look in my manual.
I am not sure, I will to try to remember to look in my manual.
What’s the deal with no one having FMF exhaust I looked on CRFS only as well
Probably coved lol
Could be exactly it haha
Another very informative video - thanks for sharing 👍
Thanks Paul and your welcome
Nice video as usual, but I was a little worried about your hands not wearing gloves when using the grinder :-)
Lol I never wear gloves
If you have a new chain why not just cut chain if your damaging a link anyway
Great !!! Thanks !!! We Love it.👍🇳🇵
Your welcome thanks for watchin
Thank you.
Thanks for watchin
Lots of good info, thanks.
Thanks for watching! You’re welcome
42 👍🏼
Mit vernsehe n
Modify(mods).To make changes to something, typically to improve it.lol...
yea yea lol well I'm not modifying the engine or exhaust system anyway lol
Great video! Thanks
Nice video how to do it the right way !
I try to make my videos detailed and this is the way I have done it for over 30 years. There will be some who disagree I'm sure lol
Thanks for watching !
Oh I was going to mention that the WR250R has a front 13 tooth sprocket, and they are prone to wearing through the chain guide. There is a guy who suggest to take the 13 tooth sprocket off and replace with 14/47 instead of the 13/43 that it comes with and the gearing will be the same and no bad wear. Very interesting
It is a fact for sure, I have seen it several times over the years.
Thanks for clearly review
Your welcome
good job
Where's the BB - Gun?
BB gun ? What you tawkin bout ?
I have a HUGE question about this. Why everyone is changing sprockets on this bike to have more torque ? To me it seems it has all the RPMs from stock to climb anywhere. first gear has so big ratio it almost has no use for me. What i don"t like about this bike it has enough power to go faster than it does. I'm actually thinking to to lower RPM and increase top speed that means to do exact opposite with sprockets what everybody else do.
I would really like to see some comments from wise owners. Cheers
Well adding a larger rear sprocket like a 42 tooth does improve the low end torque and help to lug around at lower RPMs in the woods. Now you would think that because it is also making more RPMs on the Highway that is would be slower and this is controversial, some say and I do agree to some extent, the 250L does not have enough power to rev out good in 6th gear so the lower gearing helps with the higher RPMs.
I do believe that the larger rear sprocket helps it to not lug as much through the gears but I do know that if people with the stock gearing would just run it up to a higher RPM before shifting, the bike does a great job.
Sorry man but unfortunately you ARE MODIFYING the gear ratio.
Carry on . Great video.
Yes when you change the 40 tooth sprocket with a 42 tooth, your are making it lower geared
Just my opinion . I dont like how you set the master link . You bend it. That distorts the mast clip. You have the large hole. You put the clip in place and slip it on to lock it. The way you bend one side to put it over the pins is not good.
Well you don’t actually bend it, it does flex. I have been doing this for 40 years
I not putting you down I just think there is a better way to do that link. Ive been riding since 1966
@@WOODZMAN www.wikihow.com/Install-a-Chain-Master-Link-Clip
One more thing, sorry to bother you. You should pause when you get to those secret tricks you have when doing this stuff for example the rag in the sprocket, you should pause at that point and remind us to hit the like button, because you have way more views than likes, and I think we are just forgetting.
That is a good Idea !
Looks like you know your shit properly
Nope wearing into your swing arm is neglect 1 in the front is three in the back
if i may ask whats the difference between the vx2 and the vx3 chain?
Great video, thanks!
Thanks for watching Rick