Rake Q & A

[Big0]

Re: Rake Kit Question

Well found the triple tree BUT needs to have longer tubes... SOooooo now the hunt is on for tubes. Thank you for all the help. It was really nice that Zook made a call to the cycle shop for me!


Darn did the Trike course but my Trike is still in pieces at the cycle shop. They
thought it would have been done 3 days ago.

Big-0

 

[Nana]

Re: Rake Kit Question

You'll love the ease of steering when that rake is installed, BigO. Congrats on the trike, BTW!

 

[Big0]

Re: Rake Kit

You are lucky -- i bought a triple tree rake elsewhere and they sold me the WRONG ONE! It was in the box and marked for the Shadow 750. The tree itself was modified and then comes time to install the axle and it's threaded on the inside rather than the outside. SO my Trike is still sitting at Eddie Trotters in Fort Lauderdale and i am trying to figure a way out of this mess. Just want to get my Trike on the road.

Am at this point disgusted as no one returns calls it gets to the end of another day and STILL nothing more has taken place to move forward. The parts company isn't owning up to selling the wrong part and Trotters isn't owning up to First checking the product before modifications to the tree and leaving me hanging. Am sure trotters is hoping i get pissed enough to have them put it all back stock and pay them for screwing up. Any suggestions ?

Big0 in Pompano Beach
425-381-0343

 

[Papa Zook]

Re: Rake Kit

You are lucky -- i bought a triple tree rake elsewhere and they sold me the wrong one. It was in the box and marked for the Shadow 750. The tree itself was modified and then comes time to install the axle and it's threaded on the inside rather than the outside. SO my Trike is still sitting at Eddie Trotters in Fort Lauderdale and i am trying to figure a way out of this mess. Just want to get my Trike on the road.

Am at this point disgusted as no one returns calls it gets to the end of another day and STILL nothing more has taken place to move forward. The parts company isn't owning up to selling the wrong part and Trotters isn't owning up to First checking the product before modifications to the tree and leaving me hanging. Am sure trotters is hoping i get pissed enough to have them put it all back stock and pay them for screwing up. Any suggestions ?

Big0 in Pompano Beach
425-381-0343

Sorry for your problems. After you guys called me about your situation I called Eddie Trotta's shop to try and help straighten out the problem for you. Apparently the rake kit they sold you was indeed the wrong one, sounds like it was probably for the 750 Spirit. I put Eddie's guy in touch with my rake manufacturer to try and get a quick solution for you. Good luck and call me if I can help you further!

Randy

 

[honest john]

Re: Rake Kit

I installed rake kit from randy some months ago. It has been great. Would do it again in a minute. Trike is a Fat Boy. Thanks randy. Honest John

 

[honest john]

Re: Rake Kit

Sorry for not using capital on Randy's name. My bad. Honest John

 

[Papa Zook]

Re: Rake Kit

Thanks....and no problem john.

 

[Blondie Gal]

Re: Rake Kit

Again, we thank Randy for being 1) a good friend to all the TT members (and to ScalpHunter and me, personally) and 2) being a liaison for the problems we encounter from time to time. Three cheers for the neatest guy on the block (many, many blocks!)!
Hip, hip, hooray!!! :goodjob::goodjob::goodjob:

 

[Big0]

Re: Rake Kit

Thank you for that. i also thought it was for perhaps the
spirit as well but found out indeed it was for a 750 shadow aero.
the problem is it was for a 2008 and they changed the
configuration that year from the axle that is threaded on
the outside to the new axle that is threaded on the inside.
Would think they would label the parts as to what year it
actually fits.

Again Thank You Zook so much for talking to the guys at
thunder cycles. Of course now we need longer brake
cables and a different wind screen, but it is getting
better and may actually get the Trike on the road this
weekend.

Big0

 

[Papa Zook]

Re: Rake Kit

Thank you for that. i also thought it was for perhaps the
spirit as well but found out indeed it was for a 750 shadow aero.
the problem is it was for a 2008 and they changed the
configuration that year from the axle that is threaded on
the outside to the new axle that is threaded on the inside.
Would think they would label the parts as to what year it
actually fits.

Again Thank You so much for talking to the guys at
thunder cycles. Of course now we need longer brake
cables and a different wind screen, but it is getting
better and may actually get the Trike on the road this
weekend.

Big0

Thats great news. The guy at Eddie's said he was gonna give my supplier a call and try and work out something to get you going. I know the trees didnt come from my guy, but he was willing to help get you the right parts. Let me know how it turns out.

 

[Big0]

Re: Rake Kit

Hello

He got it back together but had to of course order a longer brake cable and
also the windscreen doesn't fit now and so yet again am:innocent::innocent: having to
order another part BUT we are in the home stretch and may Actually
be ready to go down the road this weekend. Can't wait to see how it
is going to handle now that the rake is done.

Thank you for ALL your help it is much appreciated.

Will post some pictures once it is picked up.

Big0:Biker:

 

[Beeper]

Is There a Rake Kit . . .?

Is measuring the rake and trail the easiest way to determine if there's a rake kits on my trike? Since I've never owned a trike (don't know how tough the steering should be) and it's had two owners since Zook accessorized it, I'm trying to figure this out.
Zook, if I remember our conversation, it didn't come from MT with a rake kit on it.
Thanks for any info!
Beeper

 

[Papa Zook]

Re: Is There a Rake Kit . . .?

Is measuring the rake and trail the easiest way to determine if there's a rake kits on my trike? Since I've never owned a trike (don't know how tough the steering should be) and it's had two owners since Zook accessorized it, I'm trying to figure this out.
Zook, if I remember our conversation, it didn't come from MT with a rake kit on it.
Thanks for any info!
Beeper

Brenda,
It didnt and probably still doesn't have one. If its really easy to steer, its got one. To confirm, call me and I can tell you what to look for.

 

[delcolli]

Re: Rake Kit

:woohoo: epper:

Rake Kit ordered. Thanks Randy for all your help and patience and to everyone on here who gives out so much information on this site. It's so helpful!

:wtg:

I just registered. I recently triked my Goldwing 1500 and I would like to get a rake kit. Can anyone recommend a specific kit?

Chips

 

[Lucky]

Re: Rake Kit

P.M. ZOOK he has what you need at the rite price.Welcome aboard. RIDE SAFE

 

[Nana]

Re: Rake Kit

Hello Chips, and Welcome to TrikeTalk! Where on Vancouver Island are you? Beautiful, beautiful area! And Lucky is correct..... PM Bazooka about the rake kit. Great guy, and gives a great deal to forum members!

 

[Doc Dyna]

Rake vs Rake Question

Since I just ordered my trike kit, and also ordered the 5 degree trees. I really want the front streatched out look but also needs to handle good. I see it as aboout 4 options
1. Just use the 5 degree trees = minimal extension
2. Use the trees and add 4" longer tubes = middle extension
3. Use trees , have neck modified from 28 up to 35 degrees = longer extension
4. Use Trees, Neck modded, and add +4" tubes.

So what do you experts think our do you have a better route?
Thanks

 

[skuuter]

Re: Rake vs Rake Question

Just a "point" here. If, as it sounds, You are maybe contemplating raking the frame instead of Raked Trees...Raked Trees and Re-Raked Frames are totally different "animals", and give totally different results......ThumbUp

 

[Doc Dyna]

Re: Rake vs Rake Question

Just a "point" here. If, as it sounds, You are maybe contemplating raking the frame instead of Raked Trees...Raked Trees and Re-Raked Frames are totally different "animals", and give totally different results......ThumbUp

That is the reason I posted the different combinations, hoping those in the know will chime in and tell me the pros and cons. Already have the trees coming, so extending the tubes and adding rake to the neck are my questions

 

[skuuter]

Re: Rake vs Rake Question

That is the reason I posted the different combinations, hoping those in the know will chime in and tell me the pros and cons. Already have the trees coming, so extending the tubes and adding rake to the neck are my questions

Depending on the "pitch" (difference in Front/Rear Ride Height) You are looking for on Your Trike, Longer Tubes might be fine, but "personally" I don't recommend mixing Raked Trees with a Re-Raked from Stock Frame. I would recommend putting on Your Raked Trees, and Test Ride for Results...Most Likely All You will need.....ThumbUp

 

[Loner]

Re: Rake vs Rake Question

5 degree raked trees plus 4 inch extensions sounds optimal to me. You didn't state what kind of motorcycle you have, but I assume HD. If you do any mods (additional rake) to the frame, you negate much of what the raked trees are for (you'd be increasing your trail again). I understand the 'long front end' look that you want - and if you truly want it kicked out more than 33 degrees plus 4 inches, I'd recommend you consider a springer front end. You could then mod the axle position to achieve optimal steering.

Having put many, many HD front suspensions on trikes and experimenting with length, rake, style, trail, etc., I'd stick with 5 degrees plus 4 inches.

 

[Doc Dyna]

Re: Rake vs Rake Question

5 degree raked trees plus 4 inch extensions sounds optimal to me. You didn't state what kind of motorcycle you have, but I assume HD. If you do any mods (additional rake) to the frame, you negate much of what the raked trees are for (you'd be increasing your trail again). I understand the 'long front end' look that you want - and if you truly want it kicked out more than 33 degrees plus 4 inches, I'd recommend you consider a springer front end. You could then mod the axle position to achieve optimal steering.

Having put many, many HD front suspensions on trikes and experimenting with length, rake, style, trail, etc., I'd stick with 5 degrees plus 4 inches.

Loner,
Now this is what I am looking for, someone who has been this route (many times) and has true hands on results. I really appreciate your knowledge sharing. So I'll order me the +4 tubes and be ready to assemble, hopefully start on it next weekend.
Doc

 

[skuuter]

Re: Rake vs Rake Question

5 degree raked trees plus 4 inch extensions sounds optimal to me. You didn't state what kind of motorcycle you have, but I assume HD. If you do any mods (additional rake) to the frame, you negate much of what the raked trees are for (you'd be increasing your trail again). I understand the 'long front end' look that you want - and if you truly want it kicked out more than 33 degrees plus 4 inches, I'd recommend you consider a springer front end. You could then mod the axle position to achieve optimal steering.

Having put many, many HD front suspensions on trikes and experimenting with length, rake, style, trail, etc., I'd stick with 5 degrees plus 4 inches.

GOOD STUFF..........ThumbUp

 

[jackt]

Rake Kit question

I have a 96 GW Aspencade just had a Motor Trike kit installed.
I feel I need the rake kit it steers a little hard but mainly when on inclined roads I have to really manhandle it.
If I installed the rake kit do I lose my front air forks?
Or do you get extenders with the air.
If so do I need better springs in forks.
Thanks for the help here.

 

[Lee H. Mann]

Re: Rake Kit question

I have a 96 GW Aspencade just had a Motor Trike kit installed.
I feel I need the rake kit it steers a little hard but mainly when on inclined roads I have to really manhandle it.
If I installed the rake kit do I lose my front air forks?
Or do you get extenders with the air.
If so do I need better springs in forks.
Thanks for the help here.

If you choose a rake of more than 3 degrees, you would need extensions for the tubes. I don't know if they are available from aftermarket triple tree manufacturers. It would probably be wise to change the fork springs and bushings at the time of the tree change too.

 

[Papa Zook]

Re: Rake Kit question

I have a 96 GW Aspencade just had a Motor Trike kit installed.
I feel I need the rake kit it steers a little hard but mainly when on inclined roads I have to really manhandle it.
If I installed the rake kit do I lose my front air forks?
Or do you get extenders with the air.
If so do I need better springs in forks.
Thanks for the help here.

Lose air: Depends on whose rake kit you buy. The ones I sell does include the hardware for the air. They also include fork extensions. I like the stock springs for the best ride so I suggest keeping them stock for the best ride UNLESS youre riding hard twisties all the time. Its always a good idea to change the fluid as well as the seals and bushings if the miles are more that 30K.

 

[Gold Rush]

Need GL1500 Rake Kit Install Instructions

I posted this on the "General" board but I guess it didn't get much attention. Hopefully the wrench heads (like me) will have what I need....

I just finished installing a rake kit from Bazooka on a friend's GL1800 and I expect I'll get to do a few more once the word gets out. Does anyone have installation instructions for GL1500s. I've never worked on one and don't want to go into this blind.

BTW: What I experienced just running the new kit around the block convinced me that rake kits should be part of every conversion!!! Someone on one of the bulletin boards I frequent said it's like adding power steering to a dump truck. Sounds like as good of an analogy there is.

The owner of the trike I added the rake kit to is still a giddy as a school girl.. We'll see tomorrow just exactly what this thing will do...

Thanks in advance for anyone coming up with the GL1500 information...

 

[Papa Zook]

Re: Need GL1500 Rake Kit Install Instructions

Jerry,
The rake manufacturers are reluctant to include any installation instructions due to liability issues. They will tell you to refer to a Honda shop manual or have a qualified technician install it. I suggest ordering a Hayes Shop manual from Biker Bandit for $29.00. Ships next day and is great to have for the stock rake removal and installation of the new one and will come in handy for future maintenance too. BTW, where'd you get those rake kits?

Biker Bandit

 

[Gold Rush]

Re: Need GL1500 Rake Kit Install Instructions

Thanks for the advice Randy. I was hoping someone had published a step by step (easy to follow) like Motor Trike did for the GL1800.. I have access to GL1500 shop manual so I guess that's what I will do..

I guess from my post you know the two kits I bought from you arrived safe and sound. Super Quality -- just like you said they would be... Thanks again Bazooka!!!

 

[Gold Rush]

Rake Kit Installed on GL1800 MT

Just wanted to let all you guys and gals wondering if raking you trike it is really worth it!! I'm here to tell you it's worth every cent and if you do it yourself like I did then it's worth the hours invested.

I bought two GL1800 4.5 degree kits from Adventure Motorsports (Bazooka) [THANK YOU RANDY !!!! ] and installed one kit on a friend's '05 GL1800 last week and he was extremely pleased with the outcome.

Yesterday after our morning ride I started in on my '06. In addition to the rake kit I also rebuilt the forks and installed progressive springs. Time wise I spent about six hours yesterday and a little over seven hours today. Took a quick check ride to see if I was as happy as my friend. YUP -- HAPPY is a good word...

Here's the differences I found. I really tried to be objective and even looked for negative changes which I did not find.

1. Steering effort was so much improved even I couldn't believe it.

2. Cornering is much quicker and easy to do full 90 degree turns (no more lazy corners)

3. Once out on the highway I found it easier to maintain smooth and straight travel.

4. The wind didn't blow me around as much and it took almost no effort to correct when it did.

5. Even though I installed stiffer front springs, the added 3 inch wheel base made the ride smoother.