I'm currently in Malaysia and am suffering (that is, the bike is) from a bend front sprocket. I'd tried to get it fixed here but they can't do anything about it.
My question: can I drive on another 1000km or will I wreck my engine?

Philip
If your bent sprocket is affecting your chain tension make sure there is enough slack when your chain is at it's tightest so you don't over stress your gear box bearing. The other problem is if the chain comes off it could damage your left hand engine case which has an oil way pass through it so it could be a big problem.You might have a chance of getting hold of a sprocket by trying at diffrent motorcycle hire places in the tourist areas as these seem to be the only places you see big japanese trail bikes also if your heading for Thailand you may have more luck there.
Ride steady and good luck
NEAL

You might also want to think about getting a new sprocket couriered in. Shouldn't cost too much given the size, and KL - Kuala Lumpur - should be no problem for delivery etc.

In the meantime, keep the speed down.

How badly is it bent? A good shop should be able to heat it red and let it cool slowly to soften it, then flatten it in a press or with a vise and a hammer!

Heat it red and quench it in water and it should be plenty hard enough. Make sure you file off any damage from the straightening operation before you harden it.

As long as it is reasonably straight sideways - within an 1/8" or 3mm - and not out of round up and down, it should work fine. Super precision is not required.

Note Neals comments on chain tension. Be very sure there is no spot in the chain where the play is less than the required spec. Spin the wheel slowly and be certain.

Good luck,

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Grant Johnson

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