[jms]

What are the opinions of a fork brace ? are they a benefit for our bikes ?
Anyone have one ?

I was looking at the following . Very $$$ IMO

http://www.superbrace.com/

SuperBrace Part#: 4433
Fits Model: Kawasaki EX-500R
Years: (1999-2005)
Price: $136.95

w/ Fork Protector + $25.00

 

[ninjamon]

I'm a newbie, so don't know what they would do for you, but I watched the simulation in the link you provided, and it looks like they make good engineering sense. My guess is that they might be of value to riders who push their bikes...i.e. racing, pushing the limits on twisties, etc., where the forces on the frame are greater. Also wonder whether they might help with hard front end braking. For putting around on county roads like I do I've gotta think that stock is fine. I would really like to hear what some experienced folks say on this though, because I think it's interesting.

 

[McBiggity]

from what I have been told and have seen- the fork brace is not used on our bikes up at the track.
Not sure on the reasoning, but noone uses one.

 

[fog]

Yep your right,
I didn't respond right away because they'll think I was just being negative. This is just another fix for a none existent problem and actually causes more trouble than it cures. The reason is chatter. When cornered hard a fork brace causes or worsens the chatter of the front. Why is anyones guess but just like steering dampeners (don't use those either) fork braces seem to send extra loads to the chassis that it can't handle.
I suppose for a street bike they are OK if you need the Bling factor or Style points.
Get a Chrome one.

FOG

 

[jms]

Thanks - better to ask then to waste $$$$ ---

 

[ninjamon]

Yes, thanks for the input. I was hoping someone who knows would weigh in on this.

 

[ChopperCharles]

Well, what if I remove my front fender and replace it with a fiberglass one? No metal supports. I think a fork brace might be in order in that case, no?

Charles.

 

[neumannzz]

the best upgrade for the steering is tapered steering head bearings from all balls racing. they include a sticker to put on your bike or tool box.