triple tree clamp and handlebars

[diptenkrom]

Is there a direct swap top clamp on another bike? looking for something that will give me either clip ons or a differetn bar style selection. i don't really want to get an entire front end and swap that over. i saw there is a list of same size forks, but it doesnt mention the spacing, offset, or any other specs. Was hoping someone has tried something else that worked. thanks!

[CYBORG]

Clip ons attach to each fork usually below the top clamp

[diptenkrom]

yeah but then the top clamp is ugly, i would rather have one that sits flat, and has the clip ons on top. like on my VFR. if it is not a thing, then that is fine. i am also looking at ProTaper oversize bars. and wondering how to exactly fit a 1-1/8" bar on a 1" mount... i'm thinking a bit of machining, unless there is a good adapter, or bolt on kit. Just looking for what options there are. and unless i find a Super Deal, i probably will not swap the whole front fork setup.

[CYBORG]

Sounds like some interesting ideas. Be sure and post some pictures when its done

[robin1731]

May want to put what bike you are working on. Makes it easier to answer specific questions.
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[diptenkrom]

will do if i can get it to happen. Has anyone made custom top clamp and be willing to share templates or measurements? i have a relative that may be able to machine something, but i would need to give him something to go from.

[diptenkrom]

May want to put what bike you are working on. Makes it easier to answer specific questions.
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you are right, lol it is a 1986 GL1200 Aspencade. I could drill out the mounts to hold a protaper, but then they would have to be at that height, and i am not totally sure on the positioning yet. so looking for other ideas. Any help would be appreciated.

[ericheath]

No manufacturers that supply that I know of. A few guys who have used clip ons have cut/ground the bumps off the stock setup. I can’t think of the build(s) right now.

Your other option is to take yours and a slab of aluminum to a competent machine shop. I’m trying to remember if a few here haven’t done that on their own.

[CYBORG]

A lot of custom bikes have been built here. A lot of talent to do so. Perhaps it would help if you could introduce yourself, and help us understand your level of ability to create your dream. The best customs are rarely made from bolt on parts. But bolt on parts can create some nice ones. It really comes down to your ability to create your vision. or pockets deep enough to pay someone to create it for you. We love to help.... but need a little help from you

[diptenkrom]

A lot of custom bikes have been built here. A lot of talent to do so. Perhaps it would help if you could introduce yourself, and help us understand your level of ability to create your dream. The best customs are rarely made from bolt on parts. But bolt on parts can create some nice ones. It really comes down to your ability to create your vision. or pockets deep enough to pay someone to create it for you. We love to help.... but need a little help from you

My name is Andrew, I am in SC, near Charlotte, NC. I am a computer/small electronics technician. Currently repairing control units for municipal water stations. I have been riding bikes since 2013, and my son started riding with me about a year ago. I have done a fair amount of automotive repairs and modifications. I have not done any to a bike to this point. I currently have a Suzuki LTZ400 quad project, a 98 suburban undergoing some repair/upgrades, a 1986 MR2 rolling project, and am undertaking this Goldwing. It is something i have wanted to do for a while, but have not done. I have not welded before, but i have a few outlets for that. My son is an apprentice at a machine shop, so there is a bit that can happen there. I am pretty good at figuring things out, and have a cloudy vision at this point. the bike will stil be able to do 2 up and i dont plan on modding the frame itself. I do want a sort of standard bike seating position, as if i am going for speed i will jump on the VFR instead. this will be more of a "muscle bike" sort of thing i guess. If you want me to fill in any blanks i have left out then ask away. Deep pockets I do not have, BTW.

Thanks!

[CYBORG]

Thanks for the info. I would suggest that you relay this info to the "introduction" section so that other members, some who may be in your area, and willing to help you with ideas and information. I myself, have been customizing cars and bikes since I was in high school. I have had two bikes honored as bike of the month, and one that was honored as bike of the year. All customs. And I average about 20K miles a year on two wheels. Glad you found us.

[pidjones]

I've seen top clamps machined down to make them better looking. You could always hand you machinist your top clamp and have them make a flat one billet. I'm not a fan of clipons for such a heavy bike, though. And you'll have to get rid of the fairing. This idea is best done on a GL1000 or 1100 Standard. Even then it is heavy for clipons. I have Euro or Superbike bars on mine, and they really change it for the better.

[diptenkrom]

Thanks everyone for your help so far. I too have been working on cars since highschool, actually before that.

The fairing will definitely be gone first of April. Getting this thing road ready and going to an 80's car/bike show in full dress late March, and then after that the stripping and modding will begin.

I am really leaning towards a ProTaper bar, probably not clip-ons. Just for the flexibility of adjustment. The other option would be a higher riser, and drag bar, as I want a more upright seating position - like a standard bike. Which is the other hurdle, the ProTapers are 1-1/8" in the mounting area, and 7/8" on the handles, but the 86 GL1200 looks to be 1" mounting. So it may be machine down the stock, and add custom mounting, possibly welded. I'm going to have a black and gold theme, so probably black bar with gold levers. I might color the top tree as well. i have not "nailed down" much, but the overall theme is one that is in stone. I'm going for the "well done, but a little rough around the edges" look - trying to walk the line between restomod show bike and ratbike. So not going to have any unpainted or unfinished stuff, but might leave some things exposed or not quite cleaned up the welds as they should be. Black frame and whatever fairing/trim parts I end up with, and gold wheels, levers, and a couple cover pieces that I have to fab up.

[ericheath]

The 1200 triples that I have are 7/8”. I think SUNNBOBB used a 1” sanding drum to enlarge the opening for bigger bars.

Tank clearance was an issue for mine. I have close to Eurobars on mine.

[diptenkrom]

I will be keeping the stock tank, and making a cover plate to make it look "tankless" so I should not have any clearance problems there. - I will be doing some measuring and fitment with bars I have around for other things. Maybe even go buy a couple when I get close and return what I don't like the fitment of.

I did think about trying to enlarge that with a drill, but the sanding drum is a good idea, as it will leave some "grip" on the finished product.