No need to raise rear on F2 conversion, here's why, I think....

So I have been crunching the numbers and really measuring the dimensions on the new wheels and tires. Here's the exact measurements.


Front tires:
Old tire 16inch rim, exact wall profile, 76mm.

New, Pilot pro3, exact wall profile, 57 mm.

Delta= 19mm smaller, or lower, profile.

Result is a reduction in height at the front axle of 6.3 mm lower. <<< this is how much the axle is lower to the ground.

Rear tires:
Old tire, on 18" rim, 75 mm wall height.

New tire, on 17" rim, 73 mm wall height.

Delta=2 mm smaller, or lower, profile.

total true rear wheel size difference is 12.7(rim size delta)+2 = 14.7 mm smaller radius. <<< this is how much the rear axle is actually lowered to the ground.

So, my hypotheses is, there is only a 8.2mm difference in geometry change front to back, dropping the front forks by 5mm will nullify the geometry change and put the rake and trail very close to stock. Also, those stock forks are like a mile long, lowering them will stiffen the front up by reducing the arm length(torque applied). <<< less force applied to the tubes.

The result is a over all ride height change of 14.7mm or .55". Which is not a bad thing, as it lowers the center of mass and should quicken transitions from one lean angle to another(old school trick). Yes ground clearance is reduced
but with a 4 into 1 exhaust conversion there is no more issues with that.

I know some will argue with this, but the numbers don't lie, remembering that the goal is to retain geometry, this should do just that. Anywhooo, just my 2 cents.


577nitro