Sprockets one less sprocket tooth = 1 more mph?

[willfargo]

I was looking for a smaller rear sprocket so i can achieve a higher top speed. There was an ebay seller that said "for every tooth you remove on a sprocket, you gain 1mph. is there ANY truth to that?

 

[Neon]

That's a good generalization. I guess the answer would be yes, but there are many factors in that. It can lead to more than just 1mph or it can do almost nothing.

 

[motorpsycho]

yes, neon is right, there are MANY factors(rider weight, bike weight, wheel size, tire size, etc.)
for example, i had 20" wheels with a 44 tooth sprocket, top speed with me on the bike was around 23 mph. dropped down to a 41 tooth sprocket and added a slightly taller rear tire. Top speed with me on the bike now is @ 28 mph.
but if my friend who weighs about 50 pounds more than me, gets on my bike, the top speed drops slightly.