Christmas is almost here and my Winter project is about to kick off. Parts are beginning to arrive. I have yet to receive the Rotors, carbon fiber fender and handle bars. The Rotor bolts are Titanium
Fred
Believe me when I say you are going to LOVE what that new front end does for your FJ.... Especially the brakes...
Congrats! Enjoy the process!
Tim
Quote from: axiom-r on December 22, 2016, 09:51:21 AM
Believe me when I say you are going to LOVE what that new front end does for your FJ.... Especially the brakes...
Congrats! Enjoy the process!
Tim
+1
Hey Fred I used spiegler for the brake and clutch lines. They're adjustable for the orientation of the banjo fittings. I had a local shop that does hydraulic lines make up the first set. But he had to redo them because the banjo fittings were not quite right..
I used the stock line that crosses over the fender between the calipers.
The gsxr upper triple clamp has the Lock offset. And it's a little too close to the frame. I used a sanding drum. That you attach to a drill (I think it was a 2" been awhile) to remove just enough from the lock for clearance. And you will have to remove the tab off the one side of the frame where the lock goes . All small things that I had to figure out. I made new steering stop tabs and welded them to the frames. On the first 2. Because the gsxr stops are at a different place on the lower triple clamp. But I was thinking of trying to relocate the tabs on the triple instead. The aftermarket triple clamps use aluminum tubes bolted to the lower for the stops.
My.machinst has been going to make me upper triple clamp that has the Lock in the center, offset correctly for the Fj. With the correct sized hole for the stem. To eliminate the sleeve/spacer. But he just hasn't gotten a round to it. I should give him a call. I need 3 of them. For my bikes.
Very cool Fred, are you going the gps route for the speedo?
I'm planning a YZF750 USD upgrade (external adjustable rebound and compression) can you give me a link to your handlebars?
Thanks!
Quote from: Pat Conlon on December 23, 2016, 01:06:11 PM
Very cool Fred, are you going the gps route for the speedo?
I'm planning a YZF750 USD upgrade (external adjustable rebound and compression) can you give me a link to your handlebars?
Thanks!
I think Fred already has those really cool speedhut guages? That are gps?
I have a digital speedo that runs off the front wheel. I drilled out a brake disc bolt and epoxied the magnet into it.
I am interested in those bars too. Wondering how well they are going to work. I have Apex bars. More adjustable. But more expensive. And the design of them. If I rotate them around the front to get them narrower. It brings them forward. The ones I made to match the stock Fj bars are the best. Imagine that, Yamaha having the best design for the bike. But the ones Fred found seem like they might be narrower than the Apex. Can't wait to see how they work.
You do nice work Dan :good2:
My bar clamps are going to be below the top triple clamp, so I'm concerned about the clearance with the inner fairing panels.
I was considering the Spiegler set up:
https://spieglerusa.com/controls/handlebars-accessories-236/multiclip-tour-50mm.htm
Not sure they will clear...
Pat,
Watch the tank clearance at full lock as well.
Merry xmas,
Jeff
That's why I made the extensions longer so they could be mounted above the top clamp. Below would be cleaner looking. But harder to do. Plus with the extra above the clamp gives the ability to raise the bars for touring. With just an Allen wrench.
Those spiegler bars are a lot like the Apex bars I have, same adjustability. But more expensive. You can buy individual parts for the Apex set. So if you go down you can replace just the pieces that get damaged. My buddy that crashed his speed cripple this spring just had to buy the flat bar tube. They even deliver to the track If you damage while racing.
Quote from: Pat Conlon on December 23, 2016, 01:06:11 PM
I'm planning a YZF750 USD upgrade (external adjustable rebound and compression) can you give me a link to your handlebars?
Hey Pat,
You probably know this already, but LSL makes a nice top triple and handlebar clamp setup for the YZF750 forks. That's what I used on Wizard along with some FZ1 bars (slightly more narrow and I got the threaded bar ends for my Vibranators). The fit with the fairing is perfect and I have a nice, fairly upright riding position. The fork tubes stick up about 1/4" through the top clamp.
Frank
Hi Frank, thanks, I saw that Spiegler included a new top triple clamp in the YZF750 LSL kit.
That will be my plan B if the clip ons don't fit...
What I notice with my current handlebar setup (LSL fat bar super bike low) is that, while it is very comfortable for freeway miles, I am sitting too upright. I'm not getting my weight over the tank for proper weight distribution for cornering. I have to bend my elbows and lean way forward to kiss my mirror. It is awkward.
I think some lower, narrower bars where I will reach more forward will get my weight more centered will make the twisties more fluid.
Quote from: Pat Conlon on December 23, 2016, 01:06:11 PM
Very cool Fred, are you going the gps route for the speedo?
I'm planning a YZF750 USD upgrade (external adjustable rebound and compression) can you give me a link to your handlebars?
Thanks!
I already have a Digital GPS speedo, so there is no worries about a speedo pick up on the wheel. I have plans in the future to do a complete 5 gauge Speed Hut package. That may be another year away.....the gauges are high quality and priced the same.
The company that I am getting the handle bars from is Fast From The Past
Here is the link for the 50MM ID with 70mm rise handle bars. http://www.fastfromthepast.com/56-0028 (http://www.fastfromthepast.com/56-0028)
Fred
Thanks Fred!
The authentic carbon fiber front fender arrived today. Photos don't do it no justice. It looks amazing.
Fred
Cool Fred can't wait to see it when you get it done.
The Tarozzi handlebars came today. These are going to work beautifully. The adjustability will be a huge benefit once the forks get installed.
Here are a few mock up photos.
Fred
Sweet set up. That should keep things pointing the right way.
I finally have everything that I need. The two steering stems will be going to get the machine work done. (press out both steering stems, weld material on the FJ stem, turn on a lathe for a press fit into the GSXR lower triple clamp) in a day or so. In the photos you can see what Dan mentioned earlier about the steering stops being in different locations. The machinest will attempt to remove the stops on the GSXR lower triple and move them into the correct position. The extension's are a Dan McCoy design. IMO these are the most critical item as they are needed to lengthen the forks. I believe Dan has had 4 or 5 sets made. The bags of bolts are for the rotors. These are titanium and not overly expensive. The Calipers and brake lines are OEM for the GSXR1000.
It is mentioned earlier in this thread about the need to address the speedometer take-off. The easiest way to remedy this is to install a GPS driven speedometer. This is covered in the files under this mod. http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=12192.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=12192.0)
For anyone following this for a future conversion, near the end of this, I will post an itemized list of all parts required.
I am sure there will be a few snags as this comes together. I will address them as they come.
I'm very jealous but will be following this project
Quote from: aviationfred on January 11, 2017, 05:01:13 PM
For anyone following this for a future conversion, near the end of this, I will post an itemized list of all parts required.
Will that list include the extra parts that need to be hidden?! :pardon:
Quote from: fj1289 on January 12, 2017, 07:52:57 AM
Quote from: aviationfred on January 11, 2017, 05:01:13 PM
For anyone following this for a future conversion, near the end of this, I will post an itemized list of all parts required.
Will that list include the extra parts that need to be hidden?! :pardon:
:scratch_one-s_head: I hope not.... :blush:
What a treasure trove of goodies. Don't forget to grind that Suzuki emblem of that top yoke.
Quote from: andyoutandabout on January 12, 2017, 09:51:02 PM
What a treasure trove of goodies. Don't forget to grind that Suzuki emblem of that top yoke.
It's actually a metal sticker. Just peals off. First thing I did to all three of mine.
Hi Fred,
Looking at the bottom triples, the stem on the Suzuki one looks at least as long as the FJ. do you think you will be able to turn the top of the original Suzuki stem down, or will you press out the stems and build up the FJ stem. On my ZX14 conversion I found that the bottom bearing was the same diameter as the FJ bearing. I just put the bottom race from the ZX14 ball bearing into the frame, and had the top part of the stem turned down to accept the FJ roller bearing. Clear as mud?
Quote from: giantkiller on January 13, 2017, 01:45:50 AM
Quote from: andyoutandabout on January 12, 2017, 09:51:02 PM
What a treasure trove of goodies. Don't forget to grind that Suzuki emblem of that top yoke.
It's actually a metal sticker. Just peals off. First thing I did to all three of mine.
I might peel the little bugger off and mail it to Jeff Shaw. Maybe he can make up a small 'FJ' sticker to put in it's place.
Fred
Quote from: jscgdunn on January 13, 2017, 09:25:22 AM
Hi Fred,
Looking at the bottom triples, the stem on the Suzuki one looks at least as long as the FJ. do you think you will be able to turn the top of the original Suzuki stem down, or will you press out the stems and build up the FJ stem. On my ZX14 conversion I found that the bottom bearing was the same diameter as the FJ bearing. I just put the bottom race from the ZX14 ball bearing into the frame, and had the top part of the stem turned down to accept the FJ roller bearing. Clear as mud?
Thank you for the input..... I am following Dan's (giantiller) lead on this. He has done 3 of these mods. I am just documenting the parts and procedures in case others want to give it a go.
Fred
Looking forward to seeing the result!
Quote from: giantkiller on January 13, 2017, 01:45:50 AM
Quote from: andyoutandabout on January 12, 2017, 09:51:02 PM
What a treasure trove of goodies. Don't forget to grind that Suzuki emblem of that top yoke.
It's actually a metal sticker. Just peals off. First thing I did to all three of mine.
I have been in contact with Jeff and already have a initial decal drawn up. The Suzuki 'S' badge has been removed and will be replaced with something like this......
Fred
Quote from: aviationfred on January 16, 2017, 08:56:58 AM
Quote from: giantkiller on January 13, 2017, 01:45:50 AM
Quote from: andyoutandabout on January 12, 2017, 09:51:02 PM
What a treasure trove of goodies. Don't forget to grind that Suzuki emblem of that top yoke.
It's actually a metal sticker. Just peals off. First thing I did to all three of mine.
I have been in contact with Jeff and already have a initial decal drawn up. The Suzuki 'S' badge has been removed and will be replaced with something like this......
Fred
Hey Fred can you order 4 more for me. I'll pay you for them. Then Jeff can do them all at once.
Let me know
Thanks Dan
Quote from: giantkiller on January 16, 2017, 01:05:27 PM
Quote from: aviationfred on January 16, 2017, 08:56:58 AM
Quote from: giantkiller on January 13, 2017, 01:45:50 AM
Quote from: andyoutandabout on January 12, 2017, 09:51:02 PM
What a treasure trove of goodies. Don't forget to grind that Suzuki emblem of that top yoke.
It's actually a metal sticker. Just peals off. First thing I did to all three of mine.
I have been in contact with Jeff and already have a initial decal drawn up. The Suzuki 'S' badge has been removed and will be replaced with something like this......
Fred
Hey Fred can you order 4 more for me. I'll pay you for them. Then Jeff can do them all at once.
Let me know
Thanks Dan
I am thinking of having the FJ done in the Gold/Silver and the Yamaha in Silver. The Red may be a distraction while riding.
Fred
Fred, with the GSXR front rim, what do you have planned for the back rim? Matching?
Quote from: Pat Conlon on January 16, 2017, 02:28:20 PM
Fred, with the GSXR front rim, what do you have planned for the back rim? Matching?
I don't know if the 2007/2008 GSXR1000 rear wheels are useable. The wheel is 17" x 6". The rear caliper is an (above) the swing arm type. It would end up being a trial and error attempt. The GSXR is still new enough that used parts specially the wheel are still moderately priced.
I already have the 1992 GSXR750 wheel installed. Fat curved spokes like the OEM FJ wheel. I do plan on installing a matching rear brake rotor, and move the Arashi rotor pictured over to the 1990.
Fred
Quote from: aviationfred on January 16, 2017, 01:37:32 PM
Quote from: giantkiller on January 16, 2017, 01:05:27 PM
Quote from: aviationfred on January 16, 2017, 08:56:58 AM
Quote from: giantkiller on January 13, 2017, 01:45:50 AM
Quote from: andyoutandabout on January 12, 2017, 09:51:02 PM
What a treasure trove of goodies. Don't forget to grind that Suzuki emblem of that top yoke.
It's actually a metal sticker. Just peals off. First thing I did to all three of mine.
I have been in contact with Jeff and already have a initial decal drawn up. The Suzuki 'S' badge has been removed and will be replaced with something like this......
Fred
Hey Fred can you order 4 more for me. I'll pay you for them. Then Jeff can do them all at once.
Let me know
Thanks Dan
I am thinking of having the FJ done in the Gold/Silver and the Yamaha in Silver. The Red may be a distraction while riding.
Fred
Hey Fred I don't think they are big enough to be distracting
But the color wouldn't really matter to me. It would be cool to have it. Instead of blank.
Thanks again. Let me know.
The wheel is ready for install.
Before and after
Fred
With the new handle bars being hollow and no threads. I found some pressure lock style bar ends. They are made by HVMP, are Stainless Steel and weigh 14oz each.
http://www.hvmp.com/ (http://www.hvmp.com/)
Fred
I have some pressure lock Vibranators I won't be needing when I do the FZ-1 bar on my YZF750 front end.
The pressure lock Vibes were used on the Fat Bar which had no threads.
Let me know if you want them
Thank you Pat. I will let you know how these work and if I might want to give your set a try.
Fred
Here are a few of the actual top yoke decals made......i need to decide which one I want to use.
Fred
Those wavy rotors look bitchin. That doesn't even look right when I type it, let alone sound right when I say it.
Those wavy rotors look absolutely top draw, what what.
Digging the FJ decals too.
I mean, splendid additional trim old chap.
Hey Fred, I just looked at the gsxr triple clamp and it's black under the sticker. So anything black would be lost.
If you don't mind ordering me some. I'll take 4 red Fjs centered with the gold shadow, and 2 of the gold Yamaha/ Fjs for the 89.
Let me know.
Dan
I have tried to explain how the Tarozzi handlebars are adjustable. Here is a diagram showing the 4 positions. The + is the center of the fork leg.
Fred
I am beginning the removal and install of the forks. The 1990 is all ready to receive the forks from the 1989. The 1989 is ready for the GSXR1000 forks. I weighed the two wheels. Even with the larger 320mm rotors, the GSXR1000 wheel is 1.5 lbs lighter.
Fred
The forks are now installed. A small bushing had to be fabricated to take up space where the top of the steering stem goes through the upper yoke. A small amount of modifying was needed on the steering lock flange. You also need to enlarge the through holes on the ignition switch. Everything went together relatively easy. One interesting thing. The fender has to be bolted to one fork leg before the other fork leg is installed. At this stage, the handlebars look like they will be perfect and actually give a bit more of an upright sitting position with all of the cables being long enough.
Fred
Hey Fred I forgot about drilling the holes on the lock larger for the gsxr bolts. I see you ground the whole flange down for the clearance. Good idea. (The gsxr upper triple clamp puts the lock ever so slightly.closer to the flange on the frame) and because the lock is offset you have to grind the stop off the flange on the one side. I used a drum sander that was as close to the size of the frame stem diameter. And ground the face of the lock just enough to get the clearance. But you still have to grind the tab off the flange. So the way you did it is less complicated.... If I can get my machinist to get around to it.. I'm going to have him make the top plate with the stem hole the correct size (no bushing needed) and center the lock with the clearance... I need 4 of them. 1 for a future street fighter, and 3 for the current bikes. He's starting a new business. As well as working his old job. So it's going to be hard for him to get around to doing side projects..
OH yeah Fred is using that great looking carbon fiber fender. (No flex) The plastic fenders give just enough to get them on and off when assembled.
Just little on why I went with the 2007-2008 gsxr 1000 front end. I found out that alot of the racers were actually going to lighter springs, that the forks were oversprung from the factory. So I thought they would be good for the heavier FJ. I actually had to soften the preload up when on the FJ. So while I'm no suspension expert.( Actually, I have my racer buddy set them up for my weight. And then fine tune them until I find what I like) But I think they are as good as your going to get. Without changing the springs/valving. After I finished the first one. I thought it handled great... But what did I know. So I had my racer neighbor (was 3rd in points locally for 3 years on his gsxr 1000, anyways not just your average track day racer) take it for a ride. To see if it was any good. Or if I had just made a mess... He wasn't real fired up about it. But agreed to take it for a spin.... He was gone so long I thought he must have crashed. When he finally came driving back up the driveway. I could see a huge grin through the faceshield of his helmet. He got off. And the first thing he said was "I don't know what you did to the geometry. But you got it just right!" He said " I was expecting a big heavy wallowing bike. But this actually turns in better than my Gixxer." He went on to say that he took it on the road he uses to check suspension settings for his race bikes. Corners with stutter bumps. And couldn't get it unsettled. So I know I've stumbled onto something good. (Rear suspension was Honda f4i shock/with 900lb eibach spring and he's 100lb lighter than me) Disclaimer. But the bike/bikes are way better than I can ever push them. Kookaloo
Thanks Fred for doing this write up. With all the pictures.
The Tarrozzi handlebars are about an inch longer than the OEM bars. Bonus, they allow enough room to add the auxillary driving lights switch.
Fred
Everything is together. A custom length Spiegler brake line is coming from RPM and hopefully will arrive tomorrow. The brake lines that are installed are borrowed from my Vmax. They work, but are a bit long. I will be taking a test ride later this afternoon.
Fred
Looks really good Fred!
Outstanding Fred! :good2: Where's the snow?
Looking at the picture of your Tarrozzi clip on's confirms my suspicions that (for installation below the top triple) no way in hell will those fit in the space between between the 50mm USD fork tubes and the fairing's side panels.
Just like Frank said....The FZ-1 bar is what I will have to do.....
Please report back your riding impressions...
Your bike is totally bitchen! I know who I'm voting for at the WCR....Ain't it fun?
Lookin good Fred. Can't wait to hear what you think about the bar location.
I took a very short 4 mile ride this evening. My first impression is.....It all works well. I have not made any adjustments to the forks and they ride pretty much the same as the OEM, RPM fork valve equipped forks. This ride was only on 40 MPH posted city streets. I will get to some bumpy, cracked roads and freeway riding in the next few days. The brakes worked ok...I will wait for the new brake line before I comment on the brakes. The bar reach is about the same as stock. The 2 inch wider bar is noticeable. Not a bad thing, just different. I didn't think about it until after I got back home. Vibrations....On a good note, no vibrations caught my attention. I plan on riding the bike to work in the morning. I will specifically pay attention to what vibrations get transmitted into the handle bars.
Looking at the picture of your Tarrozzi clip on's confirms my suspicions that (for installation below the top triple) no way in hell will those fit in the space between between the 50mm USD fork tubes and the fairing's side panels.
Just like Frank said....The FZ-1 bar is what I will have to do.....
Pat, You may consider contacting Dan McCoy (giantkiller) to see if he can get a set of extensions made for you.
The one thing I was really concerned about was the height of the front end. Before I removed the OEM forks and with the bike on the center stand. I took a measurement from the forward sub-frame cross bar underneath the headlight to the floor. There was no problem getting that height set with the new forks.
Fred
No need for tube extensions on the YZF forks.
Keep us informed on your riding impressions.
Here is the itemized list of the parts required for this mod. I have done my best to identify all models and years that the parts can be sourced from. If the parts states only 2007/2008 GSX-R1000, than I highly recommend only using the part from that model and years.
Front wheel 2005-2008 GSX-R1000, 2006/2007 GSX-R750, 2006/2007 GSX-R600
Forks 2007/2008 GSX-R1000
Rotors 2007/2008 GSX-R1000
Calipers 2005-2008 GSX-R1000, 2006/2007 GSX-R750, 2006/2007 GSX-R600
Fender 2007/2008 GSX-R1000, 2008/2009 GSX-R750, 2008/2009 GSX-R600
Top Yoke 2007/2008 GSX-R1000
upper triple clamp
Steering stem 2007/2008 GSX-R1000
lower triple clamp
FJ Steering Stem 1984-1990 interchange, 1991-1993 interchange only with said years.
FJ Steering Stem all years, Items 3-7 in the parts breakdown diagram
Hardware
Handle Bars Tarozzi clip ons, 50mm diameter, 70mm rise
Brake line Spiegler Stainless steel braided, Single line 880mm length with 20 degree banjo fittings. The length and fittings may vary due to the type of master cylinder used.
Suzuki crossover 2005-2008 GSX-R1000, 2006/2007 GSX-R750, 2006/2007 GSX-R600
brake line
Bar ends HVMP heavy weight (14oz.) each. pressure lock style
Fender bolts 6 total, the 4 forward bolts are one part number and the aft 2 bolts are a another part number. The parts diagram only says 2 required for the forward mount. Order 4. These can be found
in titanium
Caliper bolts 4 total, these can be found in titanium
Rotor bolts 10 total, I used titanium, slightly less weight, reducing rotating mass
Fork Extensions Custom fabricated to Dan McCoy's (giantkiller) specs. Purchased as finished items from Dan.
Top Yoke Bushing Locally fabricated.
I left out hand grips, brake pads as the type and brand used is a personal choice.
Over all this mod is fairly straight forward. For skills required, If you can change your own fork seals, than this mod is in reach of your skills. Very minor machine work is required. I don't have the equipment to do this and I outsourced the work. The steering stems are pressed out of the lower triples. The FJ stem requires the lower end to be very slightly enlarged by adding some weld. Then turned down and press fit into the Suzuki lower. The top yoke bushing is simply to take up space between the two upper threaded areas and the hole in the Suzuki yoke.
I hope this helps anyone else that is interested in doing this.
Fred
Good work Fred! And thanks for the do-it-yourself guide.
I understand the proud of being the owner of a unique bike, but apart of this, how is the handling?, is it better than, i.e., the FJ specific Randy valves & springs?, because the GSXr 1000 is a completely different beast with different requeriments for its suspension not only for weight, but in rigidity too, and this is the opposite way to a comfortable road bike
Keep us informed about of your next fast riding impressions, please
Something else that needs to be mentioned. It was noted early in this thread about the speedometer. With this mod, you loose the wheel driven speedo drive. Two alternatives are readily available. There are magnetic pick up style speedos and GPS speedos. I have been using a GPS speedo for a few years now so there was no modification required. There is a great mod thread for the Speed Hut GPS speedo.
http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=12192.0 (http://www.fjowners.com/index.php?topic=12192.0)
Fred
Took the bike out this afternoon for some riding. Covered a good variety of roads. Smooth streets, some bumpy sections, crossed a few train tracks, some freeway riding with varied smoothness and overpass's with expansion joints, even hit a cloverleaf with heavy cracked and patched concrete. The front end soaks it all up like a dream. :yahoo: :dance2: :dance:
Fred
Congrats Fred! The bike looks stunning..... You did a great job on the write up too. Those brakes should be an obvious and huge improvement - if they are feeling wooden the pads might not be seated yet? Keep after it - When I did mine the quality of the braking was one of the biggest differences and it blew me away...
Cheers!
tim
Quote from: Pat Conlon on February 03, 2017, 09:49:41 PM
No need for tube extensions on the YZF forks.
Keep us informed on your riding impressions.
Pat...what year YZF?
thx,
Jeff
Quote from: jscgdunn on February 06, 2017, 12:36:26 PM
Pat...what year YZF?
Not Pat, but I have the same front forks... any year YZF750R ('93-'98 production) will do. They are nice compression and rebound adjustable forks, but you'll need to rework the internals. Mine went to GP Suspension for spring and stack tuning to match an FJ's more portly character.
Frank
Yep, just as Frank said....also sent mine to GP suspension..
Jeff..Here's a write up: http://www.fjmods.co.uk/MarcRittner2.htm (http://www.fjmods.co.uk/MarcRittner2.htm)
Still waiting for the YZF750 top triple from Germany (ordered thru Spiegler)
(https://spieglerusa.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/736x460/17f82f742ffe127f42dca9de82fb58b1/z/1/Z120Y054%5E1.JPG)
At the moment... The bumps part of the equation is handled and I am very pleased. Next is the handling department. The Tarozzi clips are very adjustable. I initially set them with a very slight pull back. The handling was very neutral, with a flat tracker feel in the bars. The wider bar area and a bit more straight than stock put my hands very far apart. For me and my riding style, even with the neutral handling, I didn't like it. I have since begun to incrementally rotate the bars towards me.
Fred
Fred,
One thing you will find, if you ride n the rain, is that that gorgeous small fender will allow water spray everywhere, and you will find road grime all the way back under the seat....On my zx14 conversion I bought a carbon fibre fendaextenda....
Quote from: jscgdunn on February 06, 2017, 04:15:39 PM
Fred,
One thing you will find, if you ride n the rain, is that that gorgeous small fender will allow water spray everywhere, and you will find road grime all the way back under the seat....On my zx14 conversion I bought a carbon fibre fendaextenda....
Funny that you mention that. I have a Carbon Fiber one on order coming from Spain
Fred
Quote from: Pat Conlon on February 06, 2017, 01:31:07 PM
Here's a write up: http://www.fjmods.co.uk/MarcRittner2.htm (http://www.fjmods.co.uk/MarcRittner2.htm)
When I rebuilt this setup, I used the LSL top triple with bar risers. The LSL bar that came with the kit was wide and didn't have threads for the bar ends, so I bought the FZ-1 bar from Yamaha and it all fits together like stock... spacing handlebar to fairing is perfect. My steering lock doesn't work, but it would if I drilled a new hole in the steering head area...
Properly setup, this front end is pretty incredible... I've run over a ~5" pine cone in a moderately sharp sweeper with Diane on the back and no drama whatsoever, other than when I saw the cone hiding in the shadows as I entered the corner of course. It smooths out everything and the tire is always on the ground... very confidence inspiring. Highly recommend the mod, but the forks are hen's teeth and it's not easy nor cheap.
Frank
What is it about Klavdy's bike and pine cones...?
I talked the good folks at Spiegler into selling me just the top triple....they agreed.
Saved me $150 off the price of the kit, as I already have the FZ-1 bar and (Spiegler) brake lines.
They sure are nice people. Now, where's that damn UPS truck?
Quote from: jscgdunn on February 06, 2017, 04:15:39 PM
Fred,
One thing you will find, if you ride n the rain, is that that gorgeous small fender will allow water spray everywhere, and you will find road grime all the way back under the seat....On my zx14 conversion I bought a carbon fibre fendaextenda....
I've never noticed that with my bike's. Huh :unknown:
Quote from: Pat Conlon on February 06, 2017, 01:31:07 PM
Yep, just as Frank said....also sent mine to GP suspension..
Jeff..Here's a write up: http://www.fjmods.co.uk/MarcRittner2.htm (http://www.fjmods.co.uk/MarcRittner2.htm)
Still waiting for the YZF750 top triple from Germany (ordered thru Spiegler)
(https://spieglerusa.com/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/736x460/17f82f742ffe127f42dca9de82fb58b1/z/1/Z120Y054%5E1.JPG)
Seeing that tank reminds me of my old Canadian yzf that I had. 1 of 2 in the US. Sold it after a few years. 750 just didn't make any power after riding 1000cc and up.
We had a day of riding in the rain (and snow) last year on the way back from WCR on the Crowsnest highway in BC. Keep in mind that our roads are salted and graveled in winter. The combination of rain and small bits of dust and sand that was left on the road combined with rainwater was all the way back atop the battery.
Quote from: aviationfred on February 06, 2017, 04:31:43 PM
Quote from: jscgdunn on February 06, 2017, 04:15:39 PM
Fred,
One thing you will find, if you ride n the rain, is that that gorgeous small fender will allow water spray everywhere, and you will find road grime all the way back under the seat....On my zx14 conversion I bought a carbon fibre fendaextenda....
Funny that you mention that. I have a Carbon Fiber one on order coming from Spain
Fred
Yep...same place mine came from I think.
I have been asked by a few members about my cost to do this mod. I have been hesitant to put numbers to all of the items that I needed to purchase, as many of the items I got off of eBay and are subjective to what is available at any given time. :scratch_one-s_head:
I thought that I would do a comparison of this mod versus the 17" wheel and late model FJ fork conversion for the Anti-dive model FJ's. I was surprised that there was not that much different in price. If you remove the required additional cost of the Handle Bars, Extensions and machine work. The cost is pretty close.
The prices are current as of today for what I have found on eBay for used parts and exactly what I paid for the parts I used for the GSX-R1000 build.
17" wheel and late model FJ forks conversion:
Forks: $192.00
Blue/Silver/Gold dot calipers $70.00
Wheel $93.70
Arashi Rotors $180.00
RPM fork valves $213.61*
RPM fork brace $125.00*
Racetech springs $129.95*
Fork oil 5w $18.47*
= $1022,73 * not including shipping cost from RPM
GSX-R1000 front end mod
Forks, including triple tree, axle, wheel spacer and caliper bolts $306.00
Hand grips $16.95
Bar ends $88.50
Rotors $152.09
Carbon fiber fender $124.46 (OEM fenders are about $40.00)
Titanium rotor bolts $49.99
Calipers $50.00
Lower FJ triple and stem $32.79 (not required if you use the one off of your existing FJ)
Front wheel $139.99
Handle Bars $161.00
Handle Bar extensions $150.00
Machine work $100.00
= $1487.77
Once again, these prices are very subjective. If you buy everything new for either mod, the price will be much higher, or you could find items at much lower cost and save a few dollars.
Fred
The GSX setup is priced lower than R1 of same era I think.
Quote from: aviationfred on February 16, 2017, 11:37:07 AM
...
= $1022,73
...
= $1487.77
..
FRED! FOR THE LOVE OF DOG! YOU CAN'T POST NUMBERS LIKE THAT HERE!!!!
Although my wife has never been on the forum, with all I've done to the bikes - if she ever saw numbers like that I'd have to build a dog house to live in!
"...But honey, it's an investment is safety"...... "Don't you want me to be safe?"
(as she is reviewing at my life insurance policy)
Promote safety.......safety, safety, safety....works every time.
Quote from: Pat Conlon on February 16, 2017, 08:13:11 PM
"...But honey, it's an investment is safety"...... "Don't you want me to be safe?"
(as she is reviewing at my life insurance policy)
Promote safety.......safety, safety, safety....works every time.
my wife keeps wanting to increase my life insurance policy .... :unknown:
Quote from: fj1289 on February 16, 2017, 07:38:38 PM
Quote from: aviationfred on February 16, 2017, 11:37:07 AM
...
= $1022,73
...
= $1487.77
..
FRED! FOR THE LOVE OF DOG! YOU CAN'T POST NUMBERS LIKE THAT HERE!!!!
Although my wife has never been on the forum, with all I've done to the bikes - if she ever saw numbers like that I'd have to build a dog house to live in!
BAWAHAHAHAHA---This post is funnier than ANY of the jokes I have posted here!
:biggrin: Dave
:blush: Sorry guys...... :flag_of_truce:
I am a single guy.... :rofl2:
Fred
Quote from: aviationfred on February 16, 2017, 11:12:12 PM
:blush: Sorry guys...... :flag_of_truce:
I am a single guy.... :rofl2:
Fred
No worries brother! Mostly just kidding -- but I have "traded" and "sold" a lot of parts to pay for mods over the years ...
Kudos for an excellent job documenting all your mods!
The small decals for the top yoke came today. Anothe fine job by Jeff Shaw in Australia.
Fred
Nice! Attention to details like that really make a difference.
However, before the next rally I'd suggest fitting some kind of a cover for you fork extensions -- I can only imagine how big a pain it would be to get a quarter out of there if a mischievous soul dropped one in there!
Getting a coin out is easy, just a puff of air from the compressor and out she flies. But the round cavity might work as an ashtray... :bad:
Quote from: fj1289 on February 23, 2017, 07:37:31 PM
Nice! Attention to details like that really make a difference.
However, before the next rally I'd suggest fitting some kind of a cover for you fork extensions -- I can only imagine how big a pain it would be to get a quarter out of there if a mischievous soul dropped one in there!
I found some caps that plugged the holes perfectly. These are steel and are used to plug holes in electrical enclosures on machinery. I bead blasted the shiny plating off and sprayed the with clear paint.
Quote from: aviationfred on April 08, 2017, 12:09:25 PM
Quote from: fj1289 on February 23, 2017, 07:37:31 PM
Nice! Attention to details like that really make a difference.
However, before the next rally I'd suggest fitting some kind of a cover for you fork extensions -- I can only imagine how big a pain it would be to get a quarter out of there if a mischievous soul dropped one in there!
I found some caps that plugged the holes perfectly. These are steel and are used to plug holes in electrical enclosures on machinery. I bead blasted the shiny plating off and sprayed the with clear paint.
Fred, I've a pair of RPM logoed caps from a riser kit if you can have for postage.
Noel
Quote from: ribbert on April 09, 2017, 08:07:00 AM
Quote from: aviationfred on April 08, 2017, 12:09:25 PM
Quote from: fj1289 on February 23, 2017, 07:37:31 PM
Nice! Attention to details like that really make a difference.
However, before the next rally I'd suggest fitting some kind of a cover for you fork extensions -- I can only imagine how big a pain it would be to get a quarter out of there if a mischievous soul dropped one in there!
I found some caps that plugged the holes perfectly. These are steel and are used to plug holes in electrical enclosures on machinery. I bead blasted the shiny plating off and sprayed the with clear paint.
Fred, I've a pair of RPM logoed caps from a riser kit if you can have for postage.
Noel
Thank you for the offer Noel, I have a set of spare riser caps that I thought of using. They are just a bit too large in diameter. The steel caps that I am using have about a dozen tangs around the cap that add pressure to secure them in place.
Fred
Hey Fred I just got a PM asking about the fork extensions. So I called the machinist. And he said he thinks he still has the program to make them. He's going to let me know. I'll post here as soon as he gets back to me.
Good deal Dan :good2:
I suspect with Fred's excellent documentation, folks will asking for more of these.
Quote from: Pat Conlon on April 10, 2017, 09:06:09 PM
Good deal Dan :good2:
I suspect with Fred's excellent documentation, folks will asking for more of these.
I'm glad Fred did This I'm no good at posting and taking pictures. I like figuring stuff out. And I want to share it. But it's always fragmented. Because I always have too many going at once. Never seem to finish one because I start 3 others while I'm still working on the 5 I already have going. :Facepalm:
That's the spirit
Quote from: Pat Conlon on April 10, 2017, 09:06:09 PM
Good deal Dan :good2:
I suspect with Fred's excellent documentation, folks will asking for more of these.
Machinist said he didn't have the program for them anymore. But said he can redo it. And he can make more of the fork extensions. Will let me know about the cost as soon as he can. He is going to stop over Thursday night to take measurements off my bike.