If you’re lucky, then you might even be able to simply bolt the front end straight in – this is the case with just about every oil-cooled Suzuki GSX-R, for example, but it can also be cross-brand applicable, as some later model Suzuki sportsbike front ends fit straight into some Kawasaki air-cooled four frames (but don’t take our word for it!). Okay, if it’s too long it can be cut down and re-threaded, but the usual answer is to have a stem made to suit the headstock and standard bearing, thus meaning if the bearings ever need changing in the future, they’re easy to source. While differences in steering stem girth can be catered for by sourcing alternative bearings, or using ‘top hat’ style spacers, these won’t be of any help if the stem is too long or too short. Girder forks are perhaps the oldest style of fork, although they have been used in a modern race application, notably on the incredibly successful, mould-breaking Britten race bike, as well as a handful of limited number production bikes.įitment of any kind of non-standard fork – whether they be telescopics, girders or springers – boils down to just a couple of issues. However, with modern components and quality control, they can be significantly better than the equivalents built seventy or eighty years ago. In the current climate, with retro style being as popular as ultra-high tech, many bikes are being built with what are sometimes considered as being old technology. Much like the case with wheels, it’s easy to assume that a front end swap (comprising forks, yokes, wheel and brakes) will be done simply for performance reasons, but in the big, wide world of customising this is not the only reason, by far. Last time we discussed the merits of changing your wheels, and if you’re considering such a move, then you may well be considering a complete front end swap, which will not only gain you your new front wheel, but can also make it far easier to attain, as well as giving you bonuses in suspension and brake upgrades at the same time. Motorcycle Modifications: Front End Swaps
MOTORCYCLE GIRDER FRONT END IAN FULL