Ever wonder why the 12-inch-extened-springer
on that sporty down the street looks at least a couple of inches longer than
your foot-over forks? Because it probably is, that’s why. One source
of never-ending confusion in the modified motorcycle industry is the facts
that manufacturers don’t all figure their extended fork lengths from
the same stock measurement. Some use the original Harley springer as a basis
for comparison, while others base their lengths on the slightly longer glide’ or
probably any number of other stock front ends like the sportster. Further
complicating this hassle, several makes of bikes have changed fork lengths
from year to year, making that searched-for
stock length an even more elusive piece of information.
The major result of all this confusion is an uncertainty in the buyer as to exactly
how long his extended fork will be. It may be close to what he needs, but a difference
in two inches or so
either way can make a major change
in the looks-and performance—of
an otherwise carefully designed scoot.
So, to end some of the mystery,we unleashed a bunch of
flunkies form this rockpile to go down into civilization with tape measures in
hand on measure every bloomin’ fork
they could get near to. The result is a list of forks lengths for major brands,
measured in inches from the bottom of the lower fork bearing cup (or a point
parallel to it on the fork tube) to the center of the axle hole.With this list,
you
can determine the length of a set of tubes, a springer, a girder, or whatever,
you need. By adding the stock length to the extension figure, you’ll then
arrive at a reasonably close idea of how far the fork will raise your frame above
the tire and pavement.
(Note : all lengths were measured on an unladen bike resting on a sidestand.
Adding weight or changing springs will change lengths slightly)
Harley –Davidson
Standard springer...............................................19 1/2 in.
Xa springer...............................................................21
in.
Vl springer................................................................19
in.
45 springer...............................................................19
in.
standard glide....................................................21 1/2
in.
superglide (FX)........................................................23
in.
earley sportster.......................................................21
in.
earley optional sportster (XLCH)..........................22 in.
late sportster...........................................................23
in.
Indian:
Scout girder............................................................18
in.
Chief girder......................................................19 1/2
in.
Late telescopic fork (1953).............................20 1/2 in.