Cheap fork upgrade, gain over 20% travel for under $100

[Megadan]

Originally Posted by TxTaoRider

Yes. It measures 8.0" not including compressing the top out spring, so the 8.5"-8.6" that honda specs (depending on source material) is about right including their travel added. The new damper tubes measured about 1.5" (actually 1.45") longer than the factory dampers.

In theory, since it's over 20% in additional travel, you can go 20% less in spring pressure with the same bottoming resistance.

That would definitely make it a better off.road bike. Not sure if I will be doing this particular upgrade, but it is pretty sweet. I like seeing other people do mad scientist experiments

[Megadan]

Also, damping rod is part number 51440-446-003

This does not include any other parts, but many of the missing bits can be transered from the hawk anyway.

[TxTaoRider]

Originally Posted by Megadan

Also, damping rod is part number 51440-446-003

This does not include any other parts, but many of the missing bits can be transered from the hawk anyway.

I think the stock chinese springs may bind before full travel so you might be better of getting the whole assembly with springs.

Fyi, if you can find 1983 cr80r damper rods, they'll go about 8.9" travel. They are super rare and out of production. Also I think adding that much length to these forks may make them feel real flexy.

[Megadan]

Originally Posted by TxTaoRider

I think the stock chinese springs may bind before full travel so you might be better of getting the whole assembly with springs.

Fyi, if you can find 1983 cr80r damper rods, they'll go about 9.5" travel. They are super rare and out of production. Also I think adding that much length to these forks may make them feel real flexy.

I would get some custom single rate springs at that point anyway. Only runs about 150 bucks

[TxTaoRider]

Originally Posted by Megadan

I would get some custom single rate springs at that point anyway. Only runs about 150 bucks

At 190lbs using the single lower spring is pretty close based on Racetech's preload/sag measurements for an MX style bike. I'm sure its be fine for someone a heavier that doesn't do many bigger jumps and besides, they were included in the the price of the forks. Lol

[TxTaoRider]

Originally Posted by Megadan

That would definitely make it a better off.road bike. Not sure if I will be doing this particular upgrade, but it is pretty sweet. I like seeing other people do mad scientist experiments

It puts the bike forks up to 1980 technology. Lol

What is nice, is the parts are cheap on ebay, and if someone wanted to do the swap it could be done without having to remove the seals. In fact it could be done on the bike with a good magnet, but might be a little messy.

This summer I'll try relocating bolt holes in the swingarm along with a heavier spring to gain some travel there too.