angus67
Welder's penetrate deeper!!
Trying to get my ducks in a row here.
I have a 1971 xs1-b, in very good condition.
The front end has never been apart, so, the fork oil is likely degraded 30wt, and the grease in the head bearings is likely peanut butter.
Here's the plan--
Clean out forks, and install all balls tapered head bearings. I've read a lot about the tapered bearing upgrade, and have it on my 1980 chop. I assume it's the same kit. The one in my chop is the one from mikexs, and hope the all balls kit will install the same.
Am I safe to assume all heads thru the xs run are the same?
I've read a lot about making slots to make the new races removable in the future and plan to do so.
As for the forks, other than a kerosene clean out, and 15wt fork oil, how can I firm up this front end? The whole bike is a bit bouncy, the back shocks are mush as well, but want the stock look. Replacements seam too cheap to be any good. Just keep an eye on eBay for a good set and hope the seller knows a good shock from bad?
I know I'm limited with these early forks, and have looked at Minton mods, I don't expect to make a canyon carver out of this bike, but want to feel a significant improvement in ride and handleing.
Open to any and all suggestions.
The entire front end will be off, and would like to get it all in one shot.
I have a 1971 xs1-b, in very good condition.
The front end has never been apart, so, the fork oil is likely degraded 30wt, and the grease in the head bearings is likely peanut butter.
Here's the plan--
Clean out forks, and install all balls tapered head bearings. I've read a lot about the tapered bearing upgrade, and have it on my 1980 chop. I assume it's the same kit. The one in my chop is the one from mikexs, and hope the all balls kit will install the same.
Am I safe to assume all heads thru the xs run are the same?
I've read a lot about making slots to make the new races removable in the future and plan to do so.
As for the forks, other than a kerosene clean out, and 15wt fork oil, how can I firm up this front end? The whole bike is a bit bouncy, the back shocks are mush as well, but want the stock look. Replacements seam too cheap to be any good. Just keep an eye on eBay for a good set and hope the seller knows a good shock from bad?
I know I'm limited with these early forks, and have looked at Minton mods, I don't expect to make a canyon carver out of this bike, but want to feel a significant improvement in ride and handleing.
Open to any and all suggestions.
The entire front end will be off, and would like to get it all in one shot.