Lower front forks on 83 GS650

[bobbystitt7]

Hey there!

I just acquired an 83 GS650. I have been converting it to a cafe-style bike. I was wondering if anyone has lowered the front forks, and can offer any suggestions on how, and how far. From what I have heard, is that you should put on clip-ons after because the forks will poke out on the top.


Any insight or help would be much appreciated! Thanks!

[Steve]

Keep in mind that ANY lowering that you do will reduce cornering clearance.

One of the objectives of a cafe racer (the true racer, not the cafe-style) bikes is to enhance performance, not reduce it.

Installation of clip-on bars is a personal choice. If that's what floats your boat, go for it. Are you building this bike for you or to please someone else?

.

[bobbystitt7]

I am building it for myself. Just curious, I've seen others online that have the lowered forks, but not sure if they did it themselves or got a kit. I was thinking of lowering it maybe an 1.5 inches.

[tkent02]

Lowering is a style thing. Raising them with stronger springs and preload is a performance thing.
Cafe racer is supposed to go around corners, isn't it?

[bobbystitt7]

I see what you are saying. Im new to this...........so how do you suggest I do this?

A lot of the GS650 I've seen that are cafed, they look lowered, but maybe I am mistaken. Are there any kits, or how would one bring down the front end, without sacrificing performance.

[tkent02]

Most cafe bikes these days are a styling exercise. The line between cafe and bobber is getting thinner. Both are completely ridiculous things to do to a motorcycle.

Real ones, made to go fast and handle well are few and far between.

[slayer61]

You are building your kind of bike and lessons will be learned, but it will be your bike, and the lessons will be invaluable.

Have a look at the picture below. Shortening the forks involves shortening the upper spring and using a longer spring in the lower position.

Photo courtesy of Race Tech