1968 T500 Fork Inner

[ddubyou]

I have a 1968 T500 Cobra with a bent inner fork tube. I managed to get some replacements, but they're about 2" too long. Question, can I make them work by changing out the outer spring with a longer one? How will this change the riding/handling?

[akendall1966]

Had a similar issue except the set of tube I bought were 4" longer. I didn't use them in the end getting some used ones chromed and ground.

Longer forks will rotate the bike around the back axel increasing the rake a bit, giving it a bit more trail and longer wheelbase. Should be a bit less agile in the bends. You've got the issue of sourcing springs and gaters will be too short.

Have you considered shortening the tubes, getting some spigots machined for the top yoke that press into the shortened tubes and welded. Probably no more expensive than getting longer springs wound.

[yeadon_m]

It may be worth exploring getting your stock fork legs straightened and chromed / reground. In UK, a company called Philpots does this for hundreds of sets per year. Their hard chrome is also excellent and the service is both fast and inexpensive vs buying NOS (if available). I've had two sets of GT forks done by them. http://www.pittedforks.co.uk/fork-straightening.php" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;
Cheers,
Mike

[alanr]

check out my T250 Fork Tubes.may help.

[jabcb]

Frank’s makes new fork tubes at reasonable prices.
http://www.frankmain.qpg.com" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;