ok yet another question on front forks

[Tim Johnson]

Hello all, a while back I asked about the possibility of using the forks off a STD on a special XS 1100. I have since decided to use the special forks. My dilemma still is the fork tubes are getting a bit of rust on them (which were my original reason to replace them). My question is now; I am having difficulty locating special forks for me to use that are in very good shape. I have a local wreaking yard that has hundreds of front forks in a pile. So I was wondering what is the possibility of using front forks from another bike that has similar dimensions? Am I just making this all to complicated? They have many forks off of old Viragos, and many other bikes that are a bit newer also. I guess also I figure it may be a way around the handling issues.

[strom]

OK, here you might consider a few things...

Front wheel and brake caliper compatibility.
So, you might get a decent front end. However, check the diameter for fitting them to the bike.
I'd reccommend a front end from a sports bike.. better brakes, damping, etc etc etc.... for example forks from 85-89 Ninja 600 would fit, but the brakes and rotors wouldn't.
Since these bikes are lighter, you might need harder springs, since these bikes are a bit on the heavyweight side.
Check the front wheel... it's 19", so if you fit the front end from a 16-17 inch bike, it'll lower the whole thing and that might be a thing to keep in mind.

The easiest way would be to get original set, the best and more expencive to change the whole front end and replace it with an upside-down set off a ninja or CBR or sth... While you're at it, a decent pair of marzocci rear shocks and you have a modern machine

Do I need to mention that harley stuff sux... Yep, they are heavy, but since they don't brake or turn.... these parts are more or less useless.

LP

[Tim Johnson]

I forgot all about the brakes and the rim issue. I had best just keep with the original stuff then. I can customize something later on. I have a tendecy to never be happy with something just stock i guess.

[Mike Hart]

By tubes, you mean the upper part?

There are no doubt other tubes of the same diameter and similar length; if same diam, can use, if length same or up to inch shorter or longer, you can fudge the placement in the tree.

No specific model info for you, but, take some measurements, prowl the yards, you might just make yourself real happy.