84 ae 500 questions

1st question , can gearing affect engine temps ? When i 1st started working on this I found that previous owner had a 16 t countershaft sprocket on it and it felt like it took forever to accelerate and shift . I replaced it with a 13t which was much better . Specs call for 12t with 53t rear which is on there . I’m thinking for where it is ridden it’s still taking a bit too long for the clutches to stop slipping creating additional heat . Question 2 , been reading about swapping the origional 40mm mikuni for a 38 mikuni , has anyone done this and how did it affect performance ? I read easier starting and better down low , just trying to decide if it’s worth the expense to complete the swap . Almost forgot , crank seals have been replaced and engine was airtight .

I had a 84 auto,one of the best woods bikes ever. Why someone put a 16t on beyond me. As for better low end, if the motor isn't tired explosive acceleration is not their strong point. 500 auto is about moving forward with the least amount of effort on your part. Taking on rocky up hills,no problem. No wheel spin just traction. When starting try sneaking the piston just past TDC and recocking the KS lever. That full easy stroke helps a great deal.

With the 13t it wasn’t bad but looking for a bit more and maybe a bit easier on the clutches . We’re not really using it in the woods but on a 1.2 mile track on the side on a hill . Freewheeling is an adventure going down the hills into the off camber turns . I can start it with little issues but others can’t . It is fun and different to take out for a few laps , just trying to see if we can get it any better .

Just remembered , according to previous seller this bike came from out west so maybe that explains 16t sprocket . Not looking for explosive accel but I’m thinking that with the 12t sprocket it should be easier on the clutches and pull better down low .

Then put a 12 on. Not sure if I would make a AE a communal bike.

Not communal but some would like to try it to see what it’s about