Here is the deal. I need to replace the trees and the fork tubes after the front end got a little bent from an accident. Since the factory trees already have 2 degrees of rake, I would prefer to replace them with five degree trees, due to cost and availability. I ran the following numbers thru the calculator and came up with this:


Front tire: 27.4"
Rake: 32
Triple Clamp Offset: 2.4"
Fork Length: 32"
Triple Tree Rake: 5


Trail in inches: 2.45"


I plan on lowering the rear of the bike, I assume this will increase the trail.
I changed the fork length in the calculator (added 2") this actually reduced the trail. I need to replace the fork tubes anyway, so getting a different length is not a problem.


As the title say, will the bike handle OK at higher speeds?


Thanks
Mike

 

I did the 3 degree and actually took another inch off the ft tubes. Not sure what the figures are but I really don't feel any difference. However, I have not taken it out on the freeway at speeds above 60 or in the twistiest yet. With my rear end lowered the bike sits level now. (It still doesn't seem to have the angle the BO has.) I'm not sure if the angle of the wheel would effect this pic? Mine is the green flames with an extra 3 degrees.
EDIT: I'm thinking I should take a better picture comparison, I flipped the pic of my bike to get them in the same direction, if my kickstand was on the other side I think it would effect my red lines?

 

Rquest, so you did you install 5 degree trees?


Mike

 

Bump for more feedback, looking for input from any members who replaced there 2 degree triple trees, with 5 degree trees.


Thanks
Mike

 

No, 3

 

I replaced my stk trees with 5*, stk tube length and haven't noticed a difference. This was about 10yrs ago when I did. I ride hard, fast and aggressive without a prob. I have no speedo, but when riding with friends I've been told we were doing over 110mph. Aftermarket trees more than likely won't have the spot for the front brake line to bolt to but that's not a big deal. I'm actually installing a steering dampener and having to drill/tap a hole for it.

 

Dave, much did you lower the rear of your softail?


Mike

 

At one point when I had no passenger it was slammed to when I went around turn I scraped my rear brake pedal and have even hit my primary lol. Now it's just enough with a passenger so it doesn't bottom out.