1979 GS 1000 fork mods.

[Anonymous]

I have been riding GS1000's (4) since 1978 and have just now gotten around to modifying one to keep close to the new crotch rockets. I know I can't speed wise, but I would like to try handling wise. Years ago a guy by the name of Howard Blau really prepped one up for such an event, and one of his modifications was to resize the hole in the front fork dampening tube. Does anyone know about this modification? Since I am this far along does anyone have any better ideas other than fork spring and oil viscosity change to improve handling? I have Works Shocks on the back with an "81 swingarm at the moment.

[Anonymous]

Since I am this far along does anyone have any better ideas other than fork spring and oil viscosity change to improve handling?

The biggest improvement you can make is a set of Race Tech cartridge emulators and new fork springs. Race Tech make straight rate springs (preferable for tuning purposes) or you can get Progressive Suspension springs. A fork brace would be a worthwhile investment as well. After that, you will need to transplant a newer front end and add 17" radials for the next big step in handling.

If you are trying to run with newer bikes, then the new front end is in order. Despite the power improvements, the biggest changes have taken place in chassis technology and the new bikes will run rings around our old beasts. With the right rider, of course. A fast rider on a slow bike always works better than the other way around...


Mark

[robinjo]

A 17" wheel will fit between your forks, but maybe not your mudguard.
I resized my Kat 1100 with spoked wheels, I'm running a 120/70/17 Pirelli Dragon on a alloy rim, GS750 hub.

[saaz]

You are really limited by tyre choice regardless of how good you make the front end. Tyre and brake upgrade from a front end change would do wonders. But you can go way too fast with a well set up standard front end. A fork brace is a good investment. I have found the euro spec front end is better as the damping is firmer when playing around with different oil weights (I have a US and Euro set of forks).