Topic: New sprocket size suggestion with non conventional tire cb550

[RFogelsong]

My 75 550k has a 16" wheel on it (all I know about the tire size is that it's a "goodyear eagle" and the profile is a metric "90".  It also currently has a 34 tooth rear sprocket and what we're going to assume for the time being to be the stock 17 tooth front sprocket.  The chain is well worn and I noticed that the rear sprocket really should be replaced as soon as I can which brings me to my question;

Do you think it would affect the acceleration characteristics too negatively if I put both sprockets back to stock? (i.e. 17/37)

If not then I'm planning on doing this as I'm on the fence about going back to the stock size rim/tire on the next set and would like to have everything back to stock when the time comes for that. 

If it would affect it too much for city drivability what size would you suggest on the rear (I'm planning on going with at 17 front no matter what)? 

Also, I've heard conflicting reports (through searching the forum) as to whether a 520 or 530 chain is the stock size for the 550's, if someone could clear that up it'd be great. 

[TwoTired]

Stock chain is a DID 50, which equates to industry standard 530 dimension chain.
Do not put on an oring chain.  Without other mods, it will dig into the engine case.

I think you'll like the 17-37 combo.   It should feel peppier, than what you have.  If you have loud pipes, the engine will snarl more while keeping it in the power band.
The overall height of the stock 18 Inch rear wheel and tire was 18+3.75+3.75, or 25.5 inches.  I use a 4.00 rear tire on mine so they are another .5 inches taller.
You didn't say what your 16 tire is in width, so I can't do the calc for you.  But, I guess you have a ____/90, and the height is 90% of the width.  You should be able to ascertain what the rear wheel height is for your bike to see what the variance from stock is.

Cheers,

[RFogelsong]

Thank you very much, from that info I think I will go with the 37.  Right now it's running about 6k I think at 70 mph so I've got room there as well.  I've heard about the o-ring chains and will definitely stay away from those and go with a standard 530 then.