thags Posted May 19, 2010 Share Posted May 19, 2010 Hey guys, I've recently purchased a '76 XS500, and I'm looking to get some new tighter front springs, as the bike more or less nose-dives when I hit the front brakes, and also for better riding. The problem is that I, nor anyone in the shops around town (Vancouver) know the specs for the springs, or any compatible models so that I know which ones to order. If anyone knows somewhere where I can find the right springs, or the specs so I can order them from a shop, I would be very appreciative. Thanks, Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thags Posted May 19, 2010 Author Share Posted May 19, 2010 ...also FYI, I've checked Sonice Springs, HVC Cycle, and Hagon's to no avail. the closer I can figure is the SR500, which Hagon's carries. anyone know if this would be compatible? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Speedshop Posted May 19, 2010 Share Posted May 19, 2010 If its got 34 mm forks there will be very little on offer, the nearest would likely be the 74-76 XS650 springs. 35mm and there's a good chance it will share the same spring as the XS650/SR500 and these are available. I'd e-mail Hagon in the UK as they are very helpful on these matters. Its the damping more then the springs that causes the dive BTW. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
chrismejia Posted May 19, 2010 Share Posted May 19, 2010 XS650 forks fit the 500. You can still find XS500 forks on eBay, I did, and they were in excellent condition for $45. Good luck on your search! Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Speedshop Posted May 19, 2010 Share Posted May 19, 2010 You need to check which ones as the XS650 had several different versions. Late XS roadster forks are common and easy to find. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
thags Posted May 21, 2010 Author Share Posted May 21, 2010 cool, thanks guys. I've also had it suggested to cut some matching 1" pieces of PVC pipe and just install them on top of the springs to compress them and make them stiffer. This seems like it makes sense, and would be a way cheaper option. Any reason why I shouldn't? Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
berniebee Posted January 30, 2012 Share Posted January 30, 2012 Yes, 1" pieces of PVC pipe will help a little with braking nose dive. Downside: The extra preload will transmit more of the road ripples and bumps through to your arms. Damping affects nose dive as well. One upgrade that works really well is Race Tech cartridge emulators. Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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