Topic: K or F, F or K. Can't decide

[laser145]

I'm looking to purchase a 750 once I sell 2 other bikes and I just can't decide between the K or F.

Appearance wise, I prefer the K0-K6 bikes to the super sports.  And If I end up going to K route, I'm likely to keep it pretty close to stock.

But I like the dual disk setup on the F bikes, and I like the tank...I just don't like the tail...so If I go with an F, I'll probably modify it more

I'm also intrigued by the extra power the F bikes provide...I've never been on one though

I guess my ideal bike is an early K but running a dual disk up front...

Anyone with experience on both, is either one better for distance riding? I'm upgrading to a larger bike partly b/c I want to get out on longer trips...

[scrapvalue]

Don't think you could go wrong with either one.
Wouldn't turn down either if they were in good working condition or the price was right for a fixer upper.
This one just came up in S. Michigan. If I had a little extra coin, I would go get it.
If anyone else is interested, check it out.

http://nmi.craigslist.org/mcy/1729994840.html

[laser145]

I'm trying to focus on 76 or earlier K models, as well as the F's...

Truth be told, I'll probably just go with the first nice one I find for a good price...just let fate figure it out for me.

[scrapvalue]

I'm trying to focus on 76 or earlier K models, as well as the F's...

Truth be told, I'll probably just go with the first nice one I find for a good price...just let fate figure it out for me.

Good call.

[GammaFlat]

I'm with ya on the slight bias toward K's but F's are sure nice too.  An advantage of the K's is parts availability.  K parts are easier to get. 

[Spanner 1]

F's and 'A's have a longer wheelbase and handle noticeably different ( better ) than than K's....IMO.

[mystic_1]

You can put a dual disk on a K2 through K6 pretty easy.

mystic_1

[BeSeeingYou]

The 77/8 F bikes are the ones with the dual disc up front.  They also have a problem with valve guide wear so a top end job may have to be factored in depending on mileage.  This is not an issue with the 75/6 F.  Like Spanner said the revised frame geometry of the F improves the handling and gives it better straight line stability than the K.  The only drawback to my mind of the F for touring is the higher gear ratio in 4th and 5th.   You will be running a few hundred rpm more at highway speed but this can be overcome with a change in the rear sprocket if wanted.  The tail does provide a nice storage place for tools, spares, etc.  I have had a limited amount of time on a few K bikes and have come away with a preference for the F but I think either would be a good choice.

[laser145]

You can put a dual disk on a K2 through K6 pretty easy.

mystic_1

This is something I was wondering about.  I've seen a few of the K's around with this done.  Are people generally swapping the front end with that of a 77/78F (or other bike), or are they simply modifying the front forks and wheel to accept a dual disk?

[Don R]

either way can be done.

[greasy j]

as far as engines go, the earlier ones have much better heads. pre '72. they did more work on them and they get more HP.

I have a 71 K1. greatest bike ever made.