Project CRF 450 - Sidewinder Sprockets

Jan. 01, 2003 By Damon Adams

Email
Print
Discuss

It's All Over!

Off-Road.com was pleased to bring you Project CRF 450 - Many Thanks to the Manufacturers who sponsored it! Our New Long Term Projects take you down the road of Dual Sport Action & Desert Racing.
See: Project 525 EXC and Project WR450F!

For Inquiries on Project CRF 450 - Please Contact Us

Krause Racing, the parent company of Sidewinder sprockets has been around for a long time. Sidewinder has long been associated with lightweight, durable, and innovative sprocket designs. Vic Krause has really outdone himself this time with the implementation of titanium in Sidewinder sprockets and chains.

Impressions

We tested a 13 tooth tool-steel front sprocket, a 51 tooth rear titanium sprocket, and a 520 non o-ring titanium chain. The entire drive system is definitely standing the test of time. After two months of hard riding the entire drive system shows absolutely no signs of wear and look just as good as the day I bolted them on. The tool-steel front sprocket proved to be lighter and far more durable than the stocker. The CRF is a rear sprocket eater. Within 1 ½ weeks of riding on the stock sprocket I noticed 3 teeth completely broke off. After two months of riding on the Sidewinder titanium sprocket it is amazing to see no wear at all. Additionally, the chain proved to be equally impressive. Not only is it just as light as the stocker but it is far more durable. After two months of riding I haven't even had to adjust the chain once. You heard me right, these products are virtually indestructible.

Last Corner

The products do have a fairly hefty price tag when compared to other sprockets and chains. Bear in mind however, it will be cheaper in the long run to purchase one drive system that is a little more expensive at the time, but will last many, many more lifetimes than that of other drive systems. It just makes good sense and it's nice to have one part of your motorcycle that you don't have to worry about for a long time. If you are hard on your drive system or you race MX or ride in sand, these are the sprockets for you.

Sidewinder Products
prices as tested: