Changing 800 Classic rear sprocket. What about chain?

[KC10Chief]

After doing a lot of searching and reading on here, I decided to change only the rear sprocket on my 2004 800 Classic to a 38 tooth. Currently, it is stock with the 17/42 combo. The bike has 12,000 miles on it, but the chain and sprockets were changed before I bought it. I've put about 2,000 miles on it since.

I'm going down to a 38T rear. I already ordered it from Bike Bandit. It's a JT Sprocket. It was $43 shipped. It's a steel sprocket too. Anyways, will I need to remove a link on my chain since I'm going down 4 teeth on the rear sprocket? Or should I just adjust the rear wheel accordingly? Thanks for any advice!

[KC10Chief]

Bump. Anybody?

[Vulcanrider86]

i would put a new chain on. thats wat i did just for piece of mind.

[AtiGala]

Hi Matt,
How did that 38 tooth rear sprocket work out?
Did you get a new chain (if yes how did you do the master link?) or did you do the swing arm work around?
Thanks,
Attila