So I gather the stock sprocket is 15T.
Is that easier/better/cheaper than changing the rear sprocket?
Easier and cheaper by far. Contrary to the theoretical reduction in acceleration, I feel that my bike is now quicker due to the better gearing. Some will argue this point, but most that do haven’t done the swap. BTW my dressed weight is about 80 kg.
To me, the bike feels nicer now in 2nd and 3rd, where acceleration-wise is mainly where it’s needed.
Only a small change, but effective.
And it’s such a cheap and simple thing to do that it’s easily reversed if you don’t like it!