Help with 1980 KZ1000B front end swapping

Hey people,

I'm having a hard time figuring out what I need to do. See, I have a 2005 GSXR front end (triple tree and forks) and I have a 1980 KZ1000B. Obviously, I want the GSXR front end on the frame. The GSXR isn't tall enough, though. Do I bust the top bearing race (cup) out of the frame and find one to math the caged bearings of the GSXR? Or is there a better solution?

I'll be doing the same to a 1978 KZ650 SR. What I learn from the KZ1000 swap will definetly help with the KZ650 front end swap!

Thanks,
Kurt

If yours is the similar to my setup and most on here, the overall problem will be the height of the GSXR stem. You could get top bearings to match, however if the stem is 1.5" too short it won't help any. Check your height between the two stems; if they are the same then just matching bearings would be sufficient. I would bet the GSXR is too short though.

I have a 2007 GSXR front end on a 1977 KZ1000A, and the only option was to make a new stem or adapt the KZ stem, as the GSXR stem was just far too short. I would be surprised if yours was any different, being only a generation apart.

typically s stem swap from the kz stem to the gsxr triple is the quickest and cheapest.
then you use the kz bearings and seals and your done.
i have done a bunch of front end conversions and can help you if needed.

shoot me a pm if i can help you.

leon

Thanks, Leon. I'll be sure to post images of the swap once it's finished. Today, I'm bead blasting the 650 engine and some other parts. Once that is done, I'll start working on the front end. Any suggestions for bearing upgrade kits for the front end?

Kurt

if you do a stem swap you can buy the tapered roller bearings from z1enterprise.com

leon