GSXR 1100 front-end swap to a 1979 GS 1000

[jknappsax]

I have a 1992 GSXR 1100 front end, wheels, brakes, GS 1100 swingarm I plan on swapping onto my 1979 GS 1000. Some people here have commented that since the GS 1000 is much heavier than a GSXR 1100, that the springs might need to be changed out. This seems like something I should do before mounting the forks to the bike; is this a reasonable assumption? I weigh about 200 lbs., so any recommendation on springs (Progressive?) and the proper specs? Also, the forks are not leaking, but should I plan on replacing the fork seals at the same time? Thanks.

[80GS1000]

Springs at 1.0 kg/mm would be a great place to start. Stock springs on those forks is 0.8 kg/mm and would feel too soft.

[isleoman]

The GS1000e weighs 507 dry and the 92 GSXR1100 weighed 497. So not that big a difference.

First thing I'd do is pull the springs on the GSXR forks as I was changing the fork oil and make sure the previous owner hasn't already gone to heavier springs, (you probably have a 50/50 chance its already been done). Are you sure the seals are good?

Personally I like the feel of heavier springs but at 200 lbs you are borderline for absolutely needing to make the change. If money is no object and the springs are original buy some straight rate 1.05 springs from Traxxion or Racetech ($140). The GSXR site may be able to help you research if you still have stock springs.

If money is an object then I'd switch the forks after changing the fork oil and give it a try and see how you like the new set up. You may be able to change the springs without taking the forks back off the bike.

Your new forks will be much better than stock but you won't (or shouldn't) be doing what a modern 600 or 1000 can do as far as street cornering goes.

If you take passengers a lot then that may push you towards the heavier springs. Good luck.

[salty_monk]

You can always cut a couple of inches off the springs & replace with a solid spacer. That will up the spring rate. It's what I have done on mine....

[jknappsax]

I appreciate all the advice; this gives me a ballpark to start from. Thanks

[kochic]

Hi,

I have almost the same setup. GSXR1100 front and rear.
It rides well. I didn't change the fork springs (i weight about 175 all geared up haha) But I plan to change the 2 rear stock shocks.
If you plan on changing your seals alone, you will need to make a tool to hold the cartridge down.(In order to remove the top cap)
I have a few photos in my album if you want to check it out.

Marc

[MikeG]

Would the GSXR1100 front and rear swap work on a 82 GS750E? One of my shops might have a line on a cheap set from a '97.

[Billy Ricks]

Would the GSXR1100 front and rear swap work on a 82 GS750E? One of my shops might have a line on a cheap set from a '97.

Yes, with a little work.