GSXR fork conversion help

Hello... I have been reading many threads in regards to swapping out the kz1000 front end with a gsxr front end.

From what I have read I understand the process of swapping out the gsxr stem with the kz stem, but I have also read that you can just use the gsxr stem and get different steering stem bearings?

If this is the case where would I find bearings for this application?

I have yet to buy a front end... still researching and trying to get the most information for the easiest conversion.

Thanks...

I'm installing a '96 GSXR750 front end on an '83 GPz1100. I was looking for bearings to just swap in the fork, but I found the GSXR stem is shorter than the Kawasaki stem. I've driven the stems out of a KZ1100 lower clamp and the GSXR lower clamp. The Kawasaki stem will need to be built up with weld and machined to fit the Suzuki triple clamp. With the KZ stem, I can use stock bearings. The fork stops will need to be modified.

Check this link: gpzrider.lagemann.org/technical/gsxr_susp_swap.htm

When machining is done, I plan to freeze the stem and warm up the triple clamp to fit the stem. I'm wondering if a set screw should be put in similiar to Ceriani or Betor forks had.

Here's another link:
www.750turbo.com/frontswap.htm

Post edited by: Fossil, at: 2006/12/02 00:06

"all balls" (I think thats the name) makes custom bearings if you give them the specs you need
Scott

Here's a comparison pic of the length of an '83 KZ1100 stem and that from a '96 GSXR750. Even if bearings were available to match the Kawasaki frame and Suzuki stem, the GSXR stem, in this case is just too short.

Ok, I'll be back when I resize the #$#@$! picture

Post edited by: Fossil, at: 2006/12/03 16:34

Post edited by: Fossil, at: 2006/12/03 16:37

another pic showing upper bearing areas and bearing preload threaded areas


Post edited by: Fossil, at: 2006/12/03 16:43

Hey brother I have done this swap! I used the Suzuki stem but modified it. Your right the suk stem is a cunt hair too short the way I got around the was to machine the stop on the stem slighty more shallow so that the stem sits just a little deeper in the lower triple.

Peace&Love;) , Darren

In my case, the GSXR stem is about 3/4" too short, so there just isn't enough material. Maybe different years and models of GSXR/Hayabusa have different stem lengths. Or, does the GPz1100 and KZ1100 have longer stems than the rest of the range?

Its hard to say, I was working with busa/tlr1000 parts.
I think the reason it worked out for me was the placement of the threads on the stem. If you look at the pic above you can see that on the Suzy piece the threads are much higher on the stem, if I would have tried to use the Kaw stem the threads would have been in or under the top triple.

Peace&Love:silly: , Darren

Thank you... A little late, but much help...

KYRADAWG, when you did the swap and machined down the stem to sit lower into the lower triple, which stem did you use?

FYI, this is a pretty old thread Bigz. It is from 2006! Kyradawg hasn't logged in since 2007. Just so you aren't holding your breath waiting for a reply from him.

Rick H.

Yeah, I saw that. I guess it was just wishful thinking that he might see it.