Most importantly, the way I had the linkage and shock mounted didn't allow for sufficient travel in the linkage, which resulted in the swingarm trying to tear the tabs out of the frame without transmitting that force into the shock. Plus, I didn't like how much force was going to be exerted on two unbraced tabs that were welded only at two relatively small points, so that needed to be addressed.
This is the linkage and shock from a stock GSXR, note the position of the dogbone bolt relative to the shock bolt.

Now look how I had mine mounted.

Big, possibly disastrous difference.
So we fixed it. New frame crossmember tacked onto the centerstand crossmember, and two fat tabs made from 1/2" square tubing, welded in solid to a piece of rectangular tubing.

and then tack welded to the frame to be further braced, painted and prettied up next time

The suspension now works and is mounted in the way that those very smart Suzuki mechanical engineers intended.
What do you think?



Ah well, the V&H will work just fine, maybe we'll paint it black.
Comment