Gear Ratio Help

[monkeys437]

Ive just started my first home made go cart and im after some advice on reaching the maximum top speed that my engine has potential for. Ive got a 5.5 hp pump motor and im thinking of a 12 tooth sprocket for the engine because that seems to be a common size. is it realistic to expect to get 30-35 MPH or even more from a 5.5 hp engine? If so what commonly available rear sprocket and wheel diameter combination would be the best.

I understand the fact that if its too highly geared for the engines power the top speed will not be reached because the engine will not be able top reach its maximum speed so i am searching for the highest gear ratio i can.

Any help and words of experience would be greatly apreciated

 

[RobertD]

maybe.. most people use a 60 tooth back sprocket. It's one of the most common sprockets. You could also use a torque convertor and pull about 50-60 MPH.