125 cc Redlining

[motoman]

Hi, I have a Kymco Pulsar LX 125 cc motorcycle. I have noticed at around 50 mph in top gear (5th) it's already beginning to redline. According to Kymco the bike  has a top speed of around 60-65 mph in top gear. So, surely it shouldn't start to redline until around 60-65 mph in top gear. Is anyone able to comment on this please.

[ophelia]

Silly question first, are you really in top gear? I know it sounds silly, but it has happened before where people feel they are in top gear but there's actually one ratio left to go. I had a CBR with a very firm shift lever once I got into 5th, but it surprisingly shifted past that once I squeezed the clutch and lifted my toe anyways.

Does the Pulsar have a tachometer? Are you able to keep revving beyond the indicated redline? I know the Quannon motorcycle has a higher rev limiter than the redline on the tachometer face. The gauges start the redline at 8000 when the bike is advertised at 9000 rpm.

[motoman]

Hi thesurgeonistherobot,

Yes, definitely in top - 5th gear. The Pulsar does have a tacho' and you can proceed to ride on into the red and reach around the manufacturers given speed of 60 - 65 MPH while in the red.  Here's how the manufacturer describes the engine power, 8.0 Kw @ 8500 Rpm.

The tacho' starts to redline at 8000 Rpm.

I have been told that to solve this I can fit a new front sprocket with one extra tooth.

[ophelia]

You could change the front sprocket. It should be reasonable in cost. Are you the first owner of this bike? Has it been modified for greater acceleration before?

[Vivo]

I had the same problem once... just change the sprockets and you'll get speed...

[motoman]

Hi thesurgeonistherobot and Vivo,

I'm the second owner. The bike had only just been run in (around 1200 miles) when I bought it in May 2013 and to date it hasn't been modified in any way. I've been quoted GBP£42.00, around US$69 including 20% UK VAT to buy and fit a new front sprocket with one extra tooth, which is okay I think. Will fitting a new sprocket effect the speedometer at all, do you know?

[Vivo]

The speedometer is attached to the front wheel, as long as you don't change the front wheel..it's ok.

I think Honda sprockets will fit... also, I think $69 is too much... Try searching for a set... front, rear plus a chain...

[ophelia]

$69 with installation might be par for the course depending where you live. Shop rates can be pricey.