Author Topic: Fork brace doesn't fit.  (Read 2582 times)

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Offline Stonec0ld

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Fork brace doesn't fit.
« on: June 16, 2018, 15:13:09 »
Afternoon,

I purchased a Cosmo fork brace from a fellow member a while back, but it doesn't seem to fit. Having read an article about transporting bikes and how overtightening straps can mess around with your fork alignment and that loosening then tightening back up can sort it out. So I'm feeling brave and thinking about giving it a go.

Is it possible to get at the bottom bolts without taking the entire front fairing off? Haynes seems to say remove the lot...

Offline UK_Vstrom650

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #1 on: June 16, 2018, 16:50:46 »
Yes it is. I've removed my forks three times to refresh fork oil and replaced a leaking seal & have never removed the front fairing.

Is it just it won't fit on, or it won't tighten? It may help to loosen the front axle to allow a bit of movement of the forks?

Offline Stonec0ld

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #2 on: June 16, 2018, 18:38:59 »
It won't fit on, it's a couple mm out. How do you get to both bolts without taking the fairing off then, is it just a bit of a fiddle?

Offline UK_Vstrom650

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #3 on: June 16, 2018, 20:26:56 »
Small socket wrench will do it. You don't get much space to turn it, however you don't need to turn it too much to slacken it off enough for movement/to remove.

Good luck with it. If you get really stuck, I'm due in Sheffield for work on Monday the 25th so could potentially come and help  :fix:

Offline Stonec0ld

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #4 on: June 16, 2018, 20:43:14 »
Cheers, I'll not get the chance to try again until next weekend. I'll let you know!

Offline Stonec0ld

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #5 on: June 29, 2018, 07:16:40 »
Success! Loosened the bolts on the forks and managed to get the brace on. Need an excuse to get out and test it now...

Offline UK_Vstrom650

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #6 on: June 29, 2018, 07:57:18 »
Result  :fix:

As for the excuse, just look outside  :sunny:

Enjoy and let us know what you think  :auto-dirtbike:

Offline ggreen1959

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #7 on: June 29, 2018, 09:20:57 »
What's the general opinion out there about a fork brace? Theory says it must be better and racers use them, but I haven't ever fitted one aftermarket. Theory also says it will increase the unsprung weight and therefore make your suspension work that little bit harder!  :shrug:

Offline Brockett

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #8 on: June 29, 2018, 09:30:22 »
The percentage increase in unsprung weight must be negligible.
I fitted a Cosmo brace to a K9 and the difference / improvement was noticeable.
This doesn't last forever, so do it while you can.

Offline Graham62

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #9 on: June 29, 2018, 10:14:48 »
I've got one on my k6 Wee and it handles a lot better.  :thumb:
A drunken man's words are a sober man's thoughts.

Graham

Offline ggreen1959

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #10 on: June 29, 2018, 10:28:35 »
Maybe an upgrade for me then!

Offline Graham62

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #11 on: June 29, 2018, 12:46:42 »
 :thumb:
A drunken man's words are a sober man's thoughts.

Graham

Offline SuzukiSte

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #12 on: June 29, 2018, 13:54:53 »
@Paul glad you got it on you will feel the difference. :fix: :thumb:

Offline hotbulb

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Re: Fork brace doesn't fit.
« Reply #13 on: June 29, 2018, 18:12:06 »
I certainly noticed the improvement when I fitted a Cosmo to the Glee.