S2R gearing - up at the back or down at the front?

[Gilps]

I've lived with the too tall gearing on the S2R for long enough and am going to change it. The question is whether to go down one on the front sprocket or up a couple on the back. I was advised some time back to leave the front sprockets alone as reducing it will alter the diameter of the sprocket giving the chain a tighter radius around which to turn, which in turn puts extra strain on the drive shaft and it's bearings, and can also lead to the chain snapping. I'm not sure this is true but have always followed this advice on the race bikes as they are under a lot more stress than everyday road use will cause. What are peoples experiences with the sprocket change and in particular with the S2R. Does it upset the slipper clutch or cause it to kick in too early?
Cheers

[Rockhopper]

I've been running a 14 tooth sprocket on the the front of my ST4 for the past five years with no problems. The 748 used to have one fitted as standard. The big advantage as far as your concerned is that you don't need to change the chain which you would need to do if you go up on the back.

[Capo]

I went up 2 on the back, same chain.

[neilbaldry]

ive gone for the 14t front, as has markus. no problems here!

[Scotty]

only ever up at the back for me

in particular if you run a jacked up ride height with a smaller front it rubs on top of the swingarm a lot more than normal (too much for comfort)

[dunlop0_1]

14 on the front 1 bigger (39) on the back and the same chain. Bike was transformed.

Neil.

[Stafford]

I vote for 14T front. :thumbsup:
But then mines a man size 1000 :chuckle:

[bigredduke]

I vote for 14T front. :thumbsup:
But then mines a man size 1000 :chuckle:

Ah! That explains the light front end when I tried to catch up with you last Saturday after exiting a junction!

[retskcid]

14 on the front 1 bigger (39) on the back and the same chain. Bike was transformed.

Neil.

Same set up as mine and feels great - in my limited experience!

Steve (ex Pro Twin) tells me that its pretty standard practice to go 14 on the front (he rec I do it), so it most be ok!

[Albie]

I vote 14 today as my front lifted on its 10 mile run out.:D :D