415 Chain Conversion for the R3
In my opinion, this is a fascinating topic! A reduction in unsprung weight and rotational mass will make a big difference on your bike by making it more nimble and giving a small bump in horsepower! In these two videos, I am documenting the process of replacing a 520 chain and sprockets with a lighter 415 size. I am also replacing the mounting studs for the rear sprocket with 8mm shorter Titanium studs. This will simplify the process of swapping wheels at the racetrack since the studs won’t be protruding as much and, therefore, less likely to get caught in the chain. While doing this work, I’ll also replaced the rear disc rotor with a Galfer Wave. In the 2nd video, I had to deal with some challenges when shortening the 415 chain. I will publish another episode in the next few weeks talking about a new chain tool specifically for this chain size. The total weight savings are considerable. Here is the full list: Item OEM Weight New component Weight Reduction 520 chain vs. 415 1633g 971g 662g Front Sprocket 184g 139g …
HOW-TO: Install a Driven Racing Fuel Cap on your R3
In this video, I document the process of installing a Driven Racing HALO fuel cap (and base). If you plan on converting your R3 into a track bike, you need to do this modification! Having a keyless gas cap looks really good, but the main advantage is that you no longer need to have a key to open the gas tank. You will also reduce the bike’s overall weight since the HALO cap is approximately 25% lighter. Replacing the OEM gas cap with an aftermarket keyless unit is a relatively inexpensive and straightforward modification for your bike. The full process of removing the old OEM cap and replacing it with a new…
R3 Weight Reduction – Install a Lithium Battery
Are you trying to reduce the weight of your bike? Replacing the heavy OEM battery with an Antigravity 4 cell lithium battery will allow you to save approximately 5 pounds with minimal effort. The OEM battery weighs 6 pounds, and the 4-cell battery from Antigravity is about 15 ounces. It’s hard to imagine that this small form factor battery has enough cranking power to start the bike! The other advantage of these batteries is their low self-discharge rate of 1-2% per month. Replacing the OEM battery with the Antigravity battery is a true plug-and-play setup. The battery doesn’t require to be charged when you get it. The biggest challenge for…
New Yoyodyne Clutch for my R3
I just couldn’t resist and had to install a Yoyodyne slipper clutch on my new R3. Why? Well, this bike will be a track only bike and I also wanted to replace the detent spring, so I figured that I’d combined both of these modifications in a single project. Don’t judge… I love gadgets but, I also like to optimize my time. The purpose of the detent spring A stiffer and more robust detent spring is needed to improve shifting on the R3. It’s no secret that false neutrals are a common occurrence on the R3. A stiffer detent spring is one easy way to help with this challenge. If…
