triple tree rake question

[trail_guy2001]

I've got to ask this question. Since I followed the Old Sparky build, I'm really into checking the 2 possibilities to get that add'l 6 degree rake at the front end. I've done the reseach on the trail issue and I do understand the possible handling issues. However, I accept those considerations and still want to proceed with the rake. My bike is a 77 with the stock 37mm front. Since I'm in the process of a rebuild, all the options are on the table. The Old Sparky build used the very well documented process of making the required frame cuts, the kick out from the 26 degree to the desired 32 degree, realignment of the frame, and the reweld technique. I'll probably end up doing this process since I really like to try things that I've never done before. The second possibility is to purchase the custom made (this equates to around the 600.00-800.00 range) solid billet raked full set of triple trees. Makes me kind of squeemish at the thought of putting out the big bucks.This option appears very doable, since there are no frame modifications required. The third possibility, and this is the question I'm asking, is can the stock triple trees be 'modified' in any way to achieve the desired rake? I know there are some really talented wrenchers in the club that I would very much appreciate their input.

[CYBORG]

i would do the frame mod myself. but that might just be me. if you are comfortable with doing it, and have the proper welding equipment. i would also consider going to a lar4ger diameter fork set up because of the added stress on the forks at that angle. and understand that kicking it out will , because of the stock length of the forks, cause the front of the bike to drop a bit, which will, unless you modify the rear, also put more weight on the forks

[Track T 2411]

Well, I'm not one of those "talented" wrenchers, but I know enough about this to tell you that the "Old Sparky" method is much easier for the home builder than trying to modify the triple trees. In reality, you would basically end up reconstructing the lower tree to gain the six degrees, unless you could figure a way to remove and offset the steering head shaft. The upper would also need to be modified, but not to as large an extent.

Along with custom made trees, there is at least one company that makes a "bolt on" type raking kit. It was posted here a year or two ago, I believe by SunnBobb...

Good wrenchin'
Todd

[ericheath]

I did it with a 77 and there are issues not common to 1100s. When you cut the tubes which are welded to the triples on the 1000, they will have to be spread wider to accommodate the drop. The other tubes are in the way. If you look and envision the tubes moving up, you'll see what I mean. It makes it tougher to keep stuff lined up. Others run into the same issue, but it's not a deal breaker. The trail and fork upgrade can be done using forks from a Magna v65 as they are leading.... Or trailing..... The axle is not on the bottom of the fork.... axle type. They are longer but can be run up in the trees to get a decent height. I think with mine lowered in the trees the trail is a bit more than 4". Magnas had tank slapper issues and maybe the leading or trailing axle is part of it. You can use 1100 or 1200 trees, they bolt on and then use 39mm or 41 mm forks from a donor bike. Dangeruss has a good write up on how to use cbr forks. Gl1200s have a nice looking front wheel for this. You also get a brake upgrade.

[trail_guy2001]

Fantastic responses...really good imformation. Did anyone have any thoughts on the question that was presented for the potential to 'alter' the original triple tree for the desired rake?

[bladredhead]

i wouldn't even consider altering the stock triples, they're as svelte as the tubes they hold. not much material left to fiddle with let alone squeeze 6 degrees out of. the stem is also welded to the lower triple, so even removing the stem to gain access to the parts to modify would be nigh on impossible... and if you found someone with the machines and skill willing to do it, their labor rate will get you pretty close to a new set of triples i suspect (at least here in crazy expensive san francisco area it would)

[ericheath]

I seem to remember someone who could provide new triples with more rake, but they were spendyyyy.

[ole496]

I posted this site once upon a time, took me awhile to find it saved in my favorites listing.

http://www.customtripletrees.com/TREES/HONDA/honda.html

[Pooch]

Just an opinion. Never done this before, BUT..... If you altered the frame ala Old Sparky and put on some triple trees with a more triangular geometry, wouldn't you gain some reduced trail, thus improving (closer to stock trail) the overall geometry?

[ericheath]

I jumped in feet first with Hott's method and had a non-titled Magna for parts anyway, so I added gl1200 trees and the 41mm Magna forks and front. It's long if you want the old school chopper look and the location of the axle helps the trail. I admittedly have no idea if there are other issues with the axle placement for handling, but I have dropped the forks in the trees to a decent level and unlike my avatar, it looks bolder and more manageable.

WP_001133(1).jpg

You can see where the axle is located how it changes the trail. Anyone else with knowledge of these know if this will hurt or help. Magnas were prone to tank slapping. The fork brace was underbuilt and often cracked and broke. I know I have to make my own fork brace as the 1200 bracket is different than the Magna forks. I am close sending the frame to powdercoating. A few final welds and a few brackets are all I can think of left.

WP_001151.jpg

[Pooch]

Some discussion here and a diagram.

http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/inde ... o-correct/

[HOTT]

trail_guy,
I felt I should jump in here just to say thanks and toss some thoughts...
First don't alter the stock trees, for the good reasons mentioned.
Do your homework on altered trees. They have a 'math' all their own
and respond and handle different than a frame mod with an aligned steer tube IMHO.
'Sparky's design was to capture an old drag bobber look
thus the drop to utilize the shorter forks. If you are going to add to
the fork (length), then you can bypass the drop.
As for the 1000 frame.. the side supports can be rearranged (cut / bent)
for the drop. Like ericheath sez 'it's not a deal breaker' (but an 1100 has it's pros).

'Make it your own'
HOTT

[robbie202]

is customtriple trees the recommended shop?

[Whiskerfish]

Man I am really liking that look

[HOTT]

WF Man I am really liking that look

X2