What is the best gearing for the XT225?

Q:

What is the best gearing for the XT225?

A:

In its stock configuration, the XT is geared way too low. If you do much road riding at all, you will want to install a 16 tooth countershaft sprocket. This gives you the top speed you need. With this gearing, first is still low enough to do almost any trail work you want, but it will also give you the additional top-end you need for your paved jaunts. The 16 tooth sprocket will fit with the stock chain.

If you are going to be doing almost all trail riding you could stay with the stock 15, or even drop to a 14.