Topic: Gl1000 Frontend on Cb Qs

[68grandprix]

I read on some old posts that a 75-76 Gl1000 frontend will swap onto an early Cb750. My question is, does this change the steering geometry? Does it adversely affect handling or stability? I'm building kind of a vintage streetracer bike (with a full vintage style fairing, solo seat, clipons, etc) and I'd like it to handle well. I like the gl front because of the dual discs, alloy rim, and 2mm larger fork tubes, but I don't want it if it will make the bike handle like crap. I have taken some sharp S curves at 100mph, if I try any faster the bike develops a serious wobble. Thanks, Jimmy.

[ProTeal55]

I am sure it will change, but not for thw worse as you are talking about.
Many a members here have done the GL front-end swap, I am sure they will chime in...

[dusterdude]

i would think the beefier tubes would strengthen the front end and help stability somewhat.

[Chris Liston]

The only change in angle you may see is if the GL forks are longer and you run them flush (stock like) in the tripple tree.  If they are longer just move them farther up inthe tree.  Take a before height measurement with stock forks and just slide the GL forks up until it the stock height.  Then run some clip ons on the upper fork tubes and you'll be set.

[68grandprix]

I know the beefier tubes will help stability (that's one of the resons for the swap). I also knew I'd have to raise the tubes in the trees. Will there be enough tube sticking out the top to mount clipons to? I know as you add more rake it makes the bike more stable, but it won't turn in or handle as easily. Does anyone who has done this have any thoughts? Thanks, Jimmy

[Chris Liston]

I'd keep the rake as close to stock as possible.  Raked out bikes handle like #$%*, don't turn worth crap but go straight.  As far as been more stable, I guess thats opinion.  Keep your CB a good handling machine.  Try as best to keep the rake the same that way you wont mess with the bikes handling.  Good luck

[68grandprix]

That's what I want to do. I'm just trying to find out if the Gl parts will add more rake and hurt my handling. If they have too little rake I could lose stability. Jimmy

[Chris Liston]

Your rake should stay the same.  It would only change if you changed rake on the frame (steering neck) or flush mounted the longer fork tubes.  If you push them up through the tripple tree the angles will be the same.  Hope that helps.

[ProTeal55]

I agree with the rake'ed bikes suck ass comment.
The bikes I am used too Custom/Choppers handle like ass.
I am surprised I am still alive with all the close calls on them damn things.
Nothing like getting cut-off while riding a 12 foot long, 330mm rear tire rigid chopper with
52 degrees of rake in the neck ! 

My scoot looks to have more rake now that I put a 21'' front wheel on it. I believe that it is
a optical thing, with the larger tire messing with my eyes..
With my new clip-on's , I should be right where I want to be stance-wise....

[68grandprix]

The rake could change if the Gl trees were built with a different rake than the Cb trees, which is possible since that bike was more of a tourer and didn't need to handle as well as a sportier Cb. I can see the benefits of the Gl frontend, but I don't want to waste my time and money (of which I have so little) if there are significant downsides for my application. I'm really looking for a comment from one of the "many" people who have done this swap. Thanks, Jimmy.

[eurban]

My 78750K has a 76GL1000 front end in it.  I have not actually measured the before and afterward rake on the bike.  The GL forks are about an 1 inch longer and with Progressive fork springs in them, don't sag as much as the stock 750 forks would.  I did not raise the forks up in the tripple trees on my bike so it most likely does have some added rake angle to it.  I am almost certain that there is not any built in offset difference in the GL trees from the top piece to the bottom piece so I doubt you will be adding in rake due to the trees themselves..  I have about 500 miles on my bike since the swap and it handles and turns well.  Perhaps not quite as quick as stock but again I didn't raise up the forks.  You should certainly be able to raise up the forks to get clipons on.   One thing that won't help handling is installing worn out forks and since the GLs are touring machines often with high mileage, be careful not to get worn out parts.  I remember reading an ariticle on the net about a 750 racing project that made use of the GL front end.  Perhaps a bit of searching or info from another member might lead you to this info.  . . .Good luck