Installing Fork Brace

[swilson]

Hi Guys, I finally got some free time today to install my new fork brace on my '05 max. What I thought was going to be a five minute job turns out that it may be a bit more in depth. Am I missing something here or do I need to pull the front wheel off to install the new brace? If this is what needs doing, is there any step by step instructions on how to remove the front wheel? Being new to this bike I'd like to ensure I don't screw up. I'd liek to get it right the first time round. Thanks!!

Scott

 

[Buster Hymen]

The front fender is attached to the brace underneath by 4 bolts. I heard it is possible to remove the fender without removing the wheel. It is a tight fit and will involve some "squeezing" of the fender.

 

[shawn kloker]

My ufo brace needs the wheel off to install.

 

[one2dmax]

It's easier on all years to install the brace with the wheel off. The early fork design can remove the stock brace with the wheel on and some aftermarket braces. The later fork models (93 up) it's virtually impossible to remove it without taking the wheel off.

Sean

 

[maxcruiser]

Not a difficulty job;

- Lift bike off ground and support it
- Unbolt each caliper from lower fork legs and let hang
-Remove axle bolt, (pay attention to how spacer, etc...
locations)
- take wheel off
- unbolt 4 bolts under the fender and remove fender
- unbolt and remove 4 bolts on top of fork brace

When you put it back together, leave 4 bolts on top of fork brace loose and only tighten after wheel axle bolt is tight. It will help with fork tube spacing between lower triple tree clamp and lower outer fork tubes (no binding)

 

[maleko89]

Only thing I have to add is to remove the speedo cable from the drive gear.

Mark
#1098

 

[swilson]

Thanks for the instructions and advise guys... I'll start work on it this on Sunday and get back with an update and perhaps some pics too.

Scott

 

[Neil-3446]

No way mine would go on without removing the wheel.

:cheers:

Neil

 

[maleko89]

Maybe you need a hub-less front wheel to match your rear? :biglaugh:

Mark
#1098

 

[Neil-3446]

Maybe you need a hub-less front wheel to match your rear? :biglaugh:

Mark
#1098

It's in the works as we speak. Had one designed for the factory front, but, now with the USD I had to go another route :biglaugh:

:cheers:

Neil

 

[4gasem]

A little anti-seize on the bolts isn't a bad idea and torque to specs... :thumbs up:

 

[swilson]

Great point 4gasem! Do you happen to have front wheel torque specs kickin around? Thanks

Scott