Sprockets

About Sprockets

Sprockets are the toothed wheels that the chain runs on: a small one on the gearbox output shaft and a larger one on the rear wheel. Riders shop here when teeth have hooked and worn, when fitting a new chain, or to change the gearing.

Tooth count sets the gearing. Fewer teeth on the front or more on the rear gives quicker acceleration, and the opposite gives a higher top speed at the same rpm. The listings show rear sprockets from 38 to 51 teeth, so check the count against your gearing. Material matters too: the samples are mostly aluminum rear sprockets, which are light, and steel rear sprockets, which wear more slowly. The sprocket must match the chain pitch, such as 520 or 525, and a rear sprocket must fit your wheel hub. Colors in the samples, such as orange, green and silver, suit the bodywork on dirt bikes.

Brands here include Vortex, Renthal, Moose Offroad, Supersprox and Sunstar Sprockets. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. Sprockets pair with Final Drive Belts & Chains and are sold with the chain in Final Drive Kits. The motorcycle chain size chart explains chain sizes, and the group is Final & Primary Drive Parts & Kits.

FAQs on motorcycle sprockets

How does sprocket tooth count change gearing?

Adding a tooth to the rear sprocket or removing one from the front lowers the gearing, which gives quicker acceleration and lower speed at a given rpm. Doing the opposite raises the gearing. A change also alters chain length, so check your axle adjustment can take it.

Should I choose steel or aluminum sprockets?

Steel wears more slowly and suits street and heavy use. Aluminum is lighter and common on dirt bikes, but it wears faster, so it is replaced more often. Choose by how you ride and how often you want to change parts.

How can I tell that a sprocket is worn?

Look for teeth that are hooked, pointed or shaped like shark fins, and for teeth with a thin, worn profile. A worn sprocket will wear a new chain quickly, so replace the sprockets whenever you replace the chain.

What do I need to match when ordering a sprocket?

Match the chain pitch, such as 520 or 525, the tooth count, and the fit. A rear sprocket must suit your wheel's bolt pattern, and a front sprocket must fit the shaft splines. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder and confirm in the listing.

Can I fit a new sprocket without changing the chain?

It is not recommended. A worn chain wears into new sprocket teeth, and a new sprocket on a stretched chain will wear quickly and may not mesh properly. Replace the chain and both sprockets together as a set.