Triple Tree swap update.
Triple Tree swap update.
A couple of weeks ago, I posted up that I was going to be swapping out the triple trees on my 2017 FXDLS for 2017 FXDB triple trees. Reasons for this was the reduced take and trail. I completed the swap(pictures of the bike are up in this section) and I wanted to provide you all with my findings.
Appearance. The degree and a half difference between the FXDL/DLS and the FXDB rake when parked next to each other is noticeable. While not much, it can be seen(at least I can see it).
Freeway. One of the possible concerns that I had and heard from a few folks was how the bike would track while at freeway speeds. Was it going to be squirrelly, wander etc. The amount of "wander" on the interstate is minimal and going from my brother's FXDLS to mine, the difference is negligible. I was able to ride at 85+ with one hand and had no issues. 100+ the bike still felt planted however a GPR stabilizer is a good idea.
Twisties and cornering. Noticeable difference between stock and now. Using my brother's bike as the control and going back and forth riding mine and his, same roads and at the same speed, mine turns in quicker and with less input. Much more spirited ride.
In closing, my thoughts are that it is a mod that I am very happy with. Both in handling and looks. If you are like me and uses your HD to bang corners occasionally, swap your trees out. The difference is enough, in my opinion, to warrant the time and money to complete.
Appearance. The degree and a half difference between the FXDL/DLS and the FXDB rake when parked next to each other is noticeable. While not much, it can be seen(at least I can see it).
Freeway. One of the possible concerns that I had and heard from a few folks was how the bike would track while at freeway speeds. Was it going to be squirrelly, wander etc. The amount of "wander" on the interstate is minimal and going from my brother's FXDLS to mine, the difference is negligible. I was able to ride at 85+ with one hand and had no issues. 100+ the bike still felt planted however a GPR stabilizer is a good idea.
Twisties and cornering. Noticeable difference between stock and now. Using my brother's bike as the control and going back and forth riding mine and his, same roads and at the same speed, mine turns in quicker and with less input. Much more spirited ride.
In closing, my thoughts are that it is a mod that I am very happy with. Both in handling and looks. If you are like me and uses your HD to bang corners occasionally, swap your trees out. The difference is enough, in my opinion, to warrant the time and money to complete.
Road Warrior
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 1,926
Likes: 56
From: Knoxville, TN
Thanks for the update. I can't tell in the picture: Is the bottom of your frame parallel with the ground like it was stock? Basically, did the 13.5 inch shocks offset the height gained from the different trees?
I don't know if this will help. I have not put the 13.5" on yet. That will have to factor in. I have not done the math, yet, to figure out exactly what the trail is. The rake is at 29 degree(same as an FXDB). The taller shocks will need to be factored into the equation.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Nov 2012
Posts: 3,515
Likes: 887
From: Upstate New York
Does the fork brace on your bike and not on your brother`s weigh into the differences that you are feeling?
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Club Member
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 10,734
Likes: 3,755
From: SWFL
I found my superbrace definitely tightened up the feel of the front end.
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I believe it does. It's a relatively inexpensive add on and it definitely helps eliminate any fork flex. If this is something you are wanting to do, it was suggested to me to do the steering stabilizer and I am going to do so.
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