Topic: Purpose of a cafe loop

[ncstatecamp]

In the middle of my cafe build and getting my frame back from powder coating I realized that most cafes have a loop welded onto the end after the seat mount is cut. What is the purpose of that bar? Sorry if it's a stupid question.

[flybox1]

Adds more frame to be able to mount a tail light, battery/electrics platform/tray.
Matches the curvature of your cafe seat.
Makes the @$$ end a little cleaner looking. 

 

[CycleRanger]

..Also makes the frame more rigid.

[Cqyqte]

Yes reduces the chance for frame flex when the swing arm loads up on the rear shocks. 

[ncstatecamp]

Yes reduces the chance for frame flex when the swing arm loads up on the rear shocks.

Ok this is what I thought it was for but wasn't sure.

So I was going to attempt to use the taps that are at the end of the frame to do a hinge bracket for getting under the seat but should I chop them and weld a loop instead?

[seanbarney41]

might consider leaving the original frame crossmember...plan your seat and tail light accordingly...the real purpose of those loops is..."oops, I cut off something I shouldn't have and now have to fix it"

[ncstatecamp]

might consider leaving the original frame crossmember...plan your seat and tail light accordingly...the real purpose of those loops is..."oops, I cut off something I shouldn't have and now have to fix it"

the cross member that goes up and over is no longer there. it wasnt there when i bought it.

[Duke McDukiedook]

..Also makes the frame more rigid.

Not by much. The bent cross member helps more structurally.

[RAFster122s]

I thought the cafe loop was the way the cafe racer types got back home...

Sounds like you powdercoated a little prematurely

[ncstatecamp]

I thought the cafe loop was the way the cafe racer types got back home...

Sounds like you powdercoated a little prematurely

A bit but it was a timing issue.... Though I can powder the loop and just have bare metal where it's been cleared for welding.