1150 Suspension - Upgrade or Replace?

[Guest]

I'm currently running Racetech front springs and a Works rear in my 1150, and have been contemplating further upgrade. I've read so many wonderful things about cartridge emulators as well as the benefit of adding the block-off plate to replace the anti-dive units. That said, to do that upgrade will already send me into a couple-hundred buck territory, which opens up the option of swapping out the whole front end for a more modern setup that'll allow radials.

What would you guys do? Some of you have seen my 1150, and it's in really nice condition. I've been keeping it stock as possible, but this is never going to be a collector's bike - it's just a regular-old '86 1150.

Love to hear some opinions.

/Mike

[dorkburger]

While I absolutely love the look of full on suspension swaps, modern wheels and big brakes on old bikes, my personal preference is increasing performance within a relatively stock envelope...My riding style doesnt require more. If yours does, go for it. Regarding your bike being a regular ol 86 1150-How many nice original ones are there? Ive only seen 2 in real life, and one was mine that I foolishly sold.

[UncleMike]

While I absolutely love the look of full on suspension swaps, modern wheels and big brakes on old bikes, my personal preference is increasing performance within a relatively stock envelope...My riding style doesnt require more. If yours does, go for it. Regarding your bike being a regular ol 86 1150-How many nice original ones are there? Ive only seen 2 in real life, and one was mine that I foolishly sold.

Anyone who has ridden with me can attest to the fact that I'm not exactly pushing the envelope performance-wise. I was thinking more for the safety of it, and I'll admit I love the look as well.

Perhaps I just find a less preserved bike for this particular experiment?

[dorkburger]

Less preserved....and banged up..Describes mine to a t

[UncleMike]

Less preserved....and banged up..Describes mine to a t

F-I-N-E ... I'll buy another motorcycle ...

[dorkburger]

Ha, my last comment was simply a mock of my own shabby machine... Whenever a question of this nature comes up I always answer the same..Its your bike. Do what makes you happy..It would look cool... Also, I had not given the safety aspect a thought..

[UncleMike]

Nope! You already said it, you can't take it back now. I have to go buy another bike. Fair's fair.

[dorkburger]

Funny Theres a gorgeuos 85 1150 near me for sale- a dealer has Iit on craigslist..too much money, and too nice for me to own

[UncleMike]

We get the bikes we think we deserve. Go ahead - you're worth it.

[dorkburger]

Funny. Thanks Mike.

[derwood]

if you install emulators, you don't need be concerned with the PDF valves(anti-dive) they will be effectively out of the circuit after you drill the damper rods.
I only blocked off mine because they leaked fork oil out the adjustment knob. Even so I could have made a plate or gasket that sealed off the ports. No flow, or full flow, doesn't matter once the emulators are installed.
So, you are most of the way there, another 160 bucks plus some patience and care when setting up suspension, all done. Handles like its laser guided, makes bumps disappear, wheels stay on the ground...golden.
Want newer more modern suspension and radial tires?. (Lots of work, gotta do both ends all over again, and brakes too. radial tires are double the money, and don't last any longer.} I'd just buy a newer generation bike they are cheap enough.

[UncleMike]

if you install emulators, you don't need be concerned with the PDF valves(anti-dive) they will be effectively out of the circuit after you drill the damper rods.
I only blocked off mine because they leaked fork oil out the adjustment knob. Even so I could have made a plate or gasket that sealed off the ports. No flow, or full flow, doesn't matter once the emulators are installed.
So, you are most of the way there, another 160 bucks plus some patience and care when setting up suspension, all done. Handles like its laser guided, makes bumps disappear, wheels stay on the ground...golden.
Want newer more modern suspension and radial tires?. (Lots of work, gotta do both ends all over again, and brakes too. radial tires are double the money, and don't last any longer.} I'd just buy a newer generation bike they are cheap enough.

I believe you've convinced me, sir! That does seem like the better option.