Frame Bracing

[akreider]

If I were to brace the frame on my bike like this guy has done

http://www.gsx1100.com/site4/tips/frame_bracing.php

would I notice an inprovement in the overall handling of the bike or just enable the frame to withstand a more powerful engine?

[Dink]

It will improve handling as well as handle more power.
Dink

[akreider]

Thanks for the reply I am just starting to learn the indepth mechanics and principles of this motorcycle. I am still fairly new it.

[Ed74mnd]

on the subject of frame bracing.

is it imperative a frame jig is used?

I was planning to brace mine using a MIG welder and not get it too hot.

should it be OK?
Cheers

Ed

[NOS]

on the subject of frame bracing.

is it imperative a frame jig is used?

I was planning to brace mine using a MIG welder and not get it too hot.

should it be OK?
Cheers

Ed

I don't see why you would have problems with the frame since you are just bracing and not changing the basic frame structure. I don't think a jig would change/help the outcome of the bracing. That is just my opinion though. I have welded bracing on Kawasaki's many times, and have never had any problems with frame distortion. I have never braced a Suzuki frame before, but (unless there is something really different with the Suzuki frames) I don't see that much would be different.

Hope that helps
Take care and ride safe

[Billy Ricks]

Most of the bracing is done where a little bracing already exists. Shouldn't be a problem.

[Ogri]

What are these frames made of? They aren't chromoly or anything special are they?
A standard mig or tig welder and wire for mild steel will work won't it?

[HiSPL]

I'm pretty sure they are made from mild steel. That is what makes them so heavy and flexible. Chromoly would weigh about 2/3rds as much and be a little stiffer, depending on the tubes used....

[Dink]

Yup mild steel.
A jig is a very good idea, imagine if the frame was a little off before you started, it could only get worse.
Dink
Be aware a jig DOES NOT have to be massively complicated, it really only need to hold the steering and swingarm pivot in alignment.

[gsbill]

Just be sure all electrics are physically disconnected from your frame before welding.

[katanakid]

I have done fairly substantial frame bracing on my Kat frame. (See posts for katanakid) You can mig no problem, BUT do not be tempted to weld across the tubes. Longwise only. Welding across the tubes CAN create fractures. Be sure that you can remove the rocker box, carbs etc when all in place with the bracing done. Also check that the tap on the fuel tank will not foul when putting back in place etc. Also make sure that you can gain access to the carb adjusting screws etc (if flatslides etc) from the top when the bracing is done, otherwise you may have difficulty balancing the carbs. Bracing certainly makes a huge improvement to the handling of the frame/bike. Make sure you string the rear wheel to the front steering head (to make sure the wheel is in the centre of the frame:-Not the swingarm), then string the rear to front wheel. You will be surprised how far out it will be, even from new. Good luck.

[Nerobro]

Now that my 550 has the 673 guts.. real rear shocks, 650 fork and brakes. Should I consider frame bracing? now would be a good time as I'm stripping the frame down to repaint it.

[Dink]

Now that my 550 has the 673 guts.. real rear shocks, 650 fork and brakes. Should I consider frame bracing? now would be a good time as I'm stripping the frame down to repaint it.

It would be a good idea,IMNSHO:-D
Dink