GS850G Front end on A GS850L

[nycs10011]

I found a GS850G in what appears to be in decent shape and I'm hoping I can bolt its front end onto my GS850L Besides the handlebars what else is different on the front ends of these two models? Am I overlooking something here?

[Dogma]

yeah. The L forks have the axle in front of the fork tubes. The G axle is on the end of the fork tubes. If you put the G fork on an L or vice versa, it will change the way the bike handles. If I'm not mistaken, less trail would make it turn in quicker.

[nycs10011]

Hmmm Looking a picture of an L and a G I see what you mean about the axle location. I've grown to like the handling on my L so I'm not sure I want to lose that but I also don't want to pass up a usable front end. decisions decisions.

[Nessism]

Installing the G front end will make the bike steer slightly slower since it will increase your trail. I doubt you'd notice though. I'd get the front end if it's in good shape. Take a close look at the fork tubes for pitting in the chrome which can cause deal damage and leakage.

[salty_monk]

Go for it... might as well have one decent part on your L model...



Joking...

[Dogma]

Installing the G front end will make the bike steer slightly slower since it will increase your trail. I doubt you'd notice though. I'd get the front end if it's in good shape. Take a close look at the fork tubes for pitting in the chrome which can cause deal damage and leakage.

Yeah...Looks like I imagined this backwards. Thanks for correcting me again, Ed.

One other thought. The G forks would get you rolling. If you don't like them, use 'em until you find L forks. Someone's always looking for a good set of forks you don't need.

[nycs10011]

Good point. I would like to get back up and running. If I come across a good set of L forks I can always swap em out.