Useful Frame Modification

[Scotchmist]

While my engine sits on the workbench (with a hole in one of the pistons), I'm left with too much time and a remarkably uncluttered frame. Considering the handling on my XS, I'd like to do what I can to improve it. I'm aware of the improvements that can be gained from replacement of the stock bearings, I've also got a fork brace for the front end. My next though was bracing the frame while I've got the opportunity. Are there any meaningful improvments that can be made by adding bracing/gussets to areas of the frame. If so, does anyone have any suggestions or images?

 

[grepper]

The later frames, I think 74+ are a bit beefier and better designed, so people generally don't do much to those. Many stiffen up the swing arm like in this post http://www.xs650.com/forum/showthread.php?t=13372

 

[Tomterrific]

The later XS received extra strength from teh juditious application of more steel. The frame is crude and heavy for strength so my thoughts are that frame set-up (SA bushings and FE tapered bearings), high end shocks about and inch longer, a fork brace, Gold Valves and good wheel alignment are the way to go. I can't say enough about more modern profile 100/90/19 and 110/90/18 tires make to teh over all feel of my old bikes.

So, I've thought the same as you but research has me believing I can't get a benefit from more steel on the frame. If you do want to stiffen the swingarm with a bridgework use light tubing for the brace. The SA brace may help at racing speeds and at least looks cool as heck!

Tom Graham

 

[lakeview]

Do you have any idea what holed the piston - a fast ride after putting around town - advance issues - timing - too lean? Were you using standard octane gas?
I bought a '77 with a hole in the piston that you could put a pen through right in the centre of the crown. OP said he had just taken it out on a freeway and got it up to cruise speed and it let go. (the price compensated for the repair I will have to do)

 

[uebe]

Do you have any idea what holed the piston - a fast ride after putting around town - advance issues - timing - too lean? Were you using standard octane gas?
I bought a '77 with a hole in the piston that you could put a pen through right in the centre of the crown. OP said he had just taken it out on a freeway and got it up to cruise speed and it let go. (the price compensated for the repair I will have to do)

Lakeview- Good questions.. Wrong thread