Changing sprockets on a CB400F to give a more relaxed ride?

[Rural Rider]

Hi experts 🙂

I'm thoroughly enjoying riding a 1975 400F again, although I think my days of chasing the red line are probably behind me!
Has anyone changed the front or rear sprocket to make the bike a little more relaxed at cruising speeds please?
Only a thought at the moment, but I am wondering if this works in practice and, if it could cause any additional stress on the engine or gearbox or affect reliability in any way.
I know the 400F was designed as a bit of a mini café racer, but these days its home is trundling around the rural back roads of Northumberland, which suits me just fine.
Very interested to hear from anyone who's tried it.

Thanks
Adrian

[Athame57]

I've always associated this sort of modification with the opposite object in mind. If the sprockets you seek are to be found, I would be worried about the engine being worked laboriously myself. Why not just fit US spec bars for a more laid back ride? 

[Rural Rider]

Hi, thanks for the reply.

I tilted the bars back just slightly, and it’s made a noticeable difference to the riding position, without needing to fit the longer US-spec cable kit. 🙂

Engine lugging is definitely something I’ve been considering, particularly as the CB400F engine was designed to rev so freely. I wouldn’t want to compromise that characteristic too much by going too far with the gearing changes.

Adrian

[Athame57]

I tilted the bars back just slightly, and it’s made a noticeable difference to the riding position, without needing to fit the longer US-spec cable kit. 🙂

In case you havn't already, test the lock of the bars. With me the left hand switch gear connected with the tank ...chip chip.

[Bryanj]

Unfortunately the 400 is a revy beast and i think if you change the sprockets the engine just will not pull the speeds you want