# Ultimate Guide to CFMOTO 800NK Sprockets: Performance, Sizing & Upgrades
**Your CFMOTO 800NK is a machine built for performance. But unlocking its full potential often comes down to the finer details—specifically, your final drive. The sprocket setup is a critical, yet sometimes overlooked, component that directly influences acceleration, top speed, and overall ride character. This guide dives deep into everything you need to know about CFMOTO 800NK sprockets.**
## **Understanding Sprocket Fundamentals: More Than Just a Cog**
At its core, the sprocket and chain system is your motorcycle’s final drive, transferring power from the transmission to the rear wheel. Changing the sizes of the front (countershaft) and rear sprockets is one of the most effective and affordable ways to tailor your bike’s performance to your riding style.
**How Sprocket Changes Affect Performance**
* **Increasing Rear Tooth Count or Decreasing Front Tooth Count:** This creates a lower, or shorter, final drive ratio. The result is quicker acceleration, improved low-end torque, and more responsive throttle feel, ideal for city riding or canyon carving. The trade-off is a lower top speed and increased engine RPMs at highway speeds.
* **Decreasing Rear Tooth Count or Increasing Front Tooth Count:** This creates a taller, or higher, final drive ratio. Your 800NK will have a higher potential top speed and will cruise at lower RPMs, which can reduce engine strain and vibration on long highway stretches. The trade-off is slightly softened acceleration.
## **Choosing the Right CFMOTO 800NK Sprocket Setup**
Selecting the perfect sprocket combination depends on your primary use case. Here’s a breakdown of common setups:
**For Aggressive Street & Twisties:** A -1 tooth change on the front sprocket (or a +2 to +4 on the rear) is a popular choice. This liven up acceleration significantly, making the bike feel more agile and explosive out of corners.
**For Balanced Daily Riding:** The stock gearing is designed as an all-around compromise. If you’re generally happy but want a touch more responsiveness, a +1 or +2 rear sprocket change can offer a subtle but noticeable improvement without drastically altering highway manners.
**For Long-Distance Touring:** Riders focusing on highway miles might consider a +1 front sprocket. This tallies the gearing, lowering cruising RPM for reduced noise, vibration, and potentially improved fuel economy over long distances.
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> **Pro Tip:** Always change your sprockets as a set with a **high-quality motorcycle chain**. A worn chain will rapidly destroy new sprockets, and vice versa.
## **Material Matters: Steel vs. Aluminum Sprockets**
**Steel Sprockets:** The standard for durability and longevity. Steel sprockets significantly outlast aluminum and are the recommended choice for most street riders, especially if you prioritize mileage and cost-effectiveness over minimal weight savings.
**Aluminum Sprockets:** Much lighter than steel, reducing unsprung rotational mass. This can make the suspension feel slightly more responsive. However, they wear out 2-3 times faster. They are a common choice for race applications where weight is critical and parts are changed frequently.
## **Installation & Maintenance FAQs**
**How often should I check my sprockets?**
Inspect your sprockets every time you clean and lubricate your chain. Look for hooked, bent, or excessively worn teeth. A worn sprocket will often cause rapid chain wear and poor performance.
**Can I change sprocket sizes myself?**
Yes, with the proper tools (chain breaker/riveter, torque wrench) and a service manual. The job involves removing the rear wheel, swapping sprockets, and often adjusting or replacing the chain. If you’re not