Changing front end of a gs550l

[bexabarr]

I'm not thinking of doing this quite yet (if even, ever), but I've been wondering about this for a while. I have a 1979 gs550l and I thought that maybe changing the front end with a set off a gs550e for example, would give it a more of straight line appeal rather than the slight chopper feel it has now(I'm assuming it's due to the forks and not so much of the frame). But I've read through many threads now, and found that a lot of you question doing this because it may compromise the rake and in term compromise stability. I am not very familiar with all of this and my curiosity is killing me lol. Is it possible and plausible to do this? By the way I've already lowerd the front forks a bit and that made a huge difference.

[SqDancerLynn1]

It shouldn't be a problem as long as you use the complete front end tripples & all. It will make the bike steer quicker

[emjay]

Agreed, but I think the frame still affects the angle to some extent.

[Tarbash 27]

Its not going to change that much, I did this to my 79 GS750L. I put the straight front end on. My main reason was that I switched gas tanks, and the L forks hit the tank. The straight forks dont. I would say if anything, It has bit quicker steering because it doesnt have the leading front axle. But the leading axle helps it stay a little more stable.

Also, the straight forks are a bit shorter and narrower. You will also be required to change the fender and front brakes also. L models use different brakes and the mounts are different.

[bexabarr]

Thanks guys this is very intersting stuff. It is almost making me think about it. So just as long as I switch everything out (except the wheel I hope), it should be ok. Well once I get new coils, a dyna s, maybe a 4 into 1, and a new paint/polish job on everthing on the bike... I may consider doing this. hehe. Thanks again.