Tall gearing

Tall gearing (also called long gearing) means the engine turns more slowly for a given road speed. On a chain-drive bike you get it with a larger front sprocket or a smaller rear sprocket, which lowers the final drive ratio.

Effects of taller gearing:

• lower revs at cruising speed, which can mean less vibration and fuel use;
• potentially higher top speed, if the engine has enough power to pull it;
• slower acceleration and less pulling power in each gear.

The opposite is short gearing, popular in enduro and motocross. Change one tooth at the front at a time, as it has roughly the effect of three teeth at the rear, and remember the speedometer may need recalibration.