Planning on hardtailing my 01 sporty this winter. Debating on buying a whole frame or weld on kit. Looking for suggestions on the best companies for weld on. Been looking at TC bros and Haifly. I hear bad things about the paughco weld-ons. Thoughts?

 

I'd recommend a weld-on, so that you retain the original VIN. Easier for registration and insurance purposes. Take a look at ledsled customs:

www.ledsledcustoms.com/

 

Weld on for keeping your stock vin is important if you ever sell it. I have to let you know everyone I know who rode a rigid is either having back surgery or just constant pain. They look cool as hell but you will hurt if you put any real miles on it. Well depends on the seat too. If you have any back pain or anything really think about this. Roads are worse than they've ever been, I'll take all the suspension travel I can get.

 

Definitely need to compensate for no rear shocks.

 

I have never owned a rigid. But I have ridden a few that buddies have built. Every single one of them says that they built a rigid purely for aesthetic purposes and not as a daily rider. So if you've got another bike you are going to put the majority of your miles on, go for it. But I wouldn't want one for my daily rider.

That said - I have heard good things about both the Ledsled Customs and TC Bros.

 

With a rigid, the only suspension you have is the seat (and 10 psi in your rear tire). If you are going to do a frame mounted seat, be ready for a rough ride. You are going to want at least some springs. Stock rigids have a pogo for a reason, gives you a bunch of travel and does limit the pain.

That said, I like Led Sled's stuff a lot, I would give his kit a look. While you are at it, his kick start kit as well, might as well go all the way. Good luck.