suspension options for a KZ550

suckerpunchjohnny wrote:

...and what brands would you recommend for pod type air filters and jet changes?

Luckily the TK-22 carbs lend themselves nicely to pods. You probably only need to go up a few main jet sizes. (Yours are 92,... probably want 96 or 98.) You can use small-head Keihin jets.

I've used K&N's, and Uni pods, but will never use them again. They cost too much, were a huge pain to clean and lube, and didn't last all that long anyway.

Now I only use the Emgo paper, disposable pods. They cost way less, no maintenance, look great, and are easy to get. The TK-22 uses the 39mm ones. They are a tight fit next to each other, but they will just make it if you wiggle them around a little.

WOW, thanks a lot for the advice...
As far as the wiring goes I want just the solids basics...
starter/ignition/charging/headlight/brake lights/directionals and a speedo... (my younger brother will be riding it as well, so I want to make it street friendly and safe.)
I've found some decently priced USED harnesses on ebay, BUT as you said who knows if they don't have the same issues. If it can be done from scratch fairly simply I would prefer that.
I've done plenty of wiring for houses, cars, mechanically, and huge complex stereo systems so I'm not afraid, just need guidance!

And yes those are the numbers I've seen thus far for the carbs... So you suggest Keihin jets? I assume that is a brand name, as well as Emgo filters? I'd rather buy what has been proven by others even if it costs me a few extra bucks...

Thanks for all the help! Where can I find pictures of your ride? What is that glowworm looking thing in the back on your avatar?! Looks crazy!:woohoo:

I'll try to draw a quick schematic for ya. It's a schematic showing electrical paths, but not necessarily a wiring diagram which shows physical connections and object locations.

In the meantime:
kzrider.com/index.php?option=com_kunena&...w&catid=11&id=221140

Page 4 shows the glow worm. :laugh: Funny, at bike events and such, there could be a $100,000 rare Vincent parked next to my bike, but everyone wants to see the $10 Halloween toy! :laugh:

Here's a shot of my other 550's.
kzrider.com/index.php?option=com_joomgal...il&id=388&Itemid=117

To figure out what gauge wire to run, look at the size wires on the device connecting to it, then match that. Mostly you'll want 16 or 18, stranded automotive wiring. But the reg/rec output, main fuse to battery and to the key switch you may want 14ga. You'll want 14 coming out of the top of the key switch as drawn. Main ground wire should be 14 as well.

The very top line is switched power. The very bottom line is main ground wire.

I drew the key switch wiring to double up on the internal contacts to make it more reliable, but you lose the parking light feature that way.

loudhvx... you are a F'n rockstar brotha! thanks a million... I'm going to measure stuff out, move the project to my buddy's shop this weekend and get to work! thanks so much...
and your bike IS FREAKIN AWESOME! I love creativity and originality!:woohoo:

And the other two are clean and streamlined, almost streetfighter style! LOVE IT! you obviously figured something out right! I will most likely be bugging you again!

so I'm finding out a ton of information, and think I almost have my lists together other than rear shocks... has anyone heard of running mini bike shocks? I see a bunch of smaller sizes for mini bikes and scooters that look like they may work... and they're FAR LESS expensive... I don't need it to be a plush cushy ride, just keep the bike from falling apart on bumps!

for instance, this is one example I found...
www.ecrater.com/p/8982747/scooter-moped-mini-bike-chopper

your opinions would be great!

cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/YAMAHA-PW50-PW-5...fPartsQ5fAccessories

any of these work?

suckerpunchjohnny wrote:

cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/YAMAHA-PW50-PW-5...fPartsQ5fAccessories

any of these work?

No.
You need eye to eye,not eye to clevise.

I dont really need something that would fit stock... I could always grind off the mounts and fab some... just wondering more mechanically if they would be a decent enough spring rate to hold the bike? Seems it to me if they are on an atv or mini they take more bumps than a street bike anyways right??

suckerpunchjohnny wrote:

I dont really need something that would fit stock... I could always grind off the mounts and fab some... just wondering more mechanically if they would be a decent enough spring rate to hold the bike? Seems it to me if they are on an atv or mini they take more bumps than a street bike anyways right??

What is thier spring rate?

I have been curious about the smaller cc shocks too.
cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/280mm-Air-Shock-...&hash=item27b52196d3

and to your original post... dont do struts, it just looks half assed. Go with some smaller shocks or just chop it up and fab up a hardtail for it. I personally like chops with shocks its got that www.bratstyle.com/ look.

I have 500 Vulcan shocks on my KZ650... 11.5" eye to eye lowers it 1" in the rear - combine that with 1" shaved seat front foam and it makes a big difference in seat height.

The Vulcan shocks spring rate is about the same as a heavy duty replacement for the 650... I looked at the Harley shocks but the spring rate was massive - OK if you weigh 250lbs.

Also check Mikes XS web site... I think they list a 11" shock that will bolt right on.

Mini bike shock spring rates may be too light for that intended purpose - gross vehicle weight.