Hey guys! Are you thinking about giving your bike a serious makeover? If you're dreaming of that stretched-out, custom look, then the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit might just be your ticket to ride. This kit is designed to completely transform your motorcycle's front end, giving it that aggressive, laid-back stance that turns heads wherever you go. But before you jump in, let's dive deep into what this kit is all about, what it includes, how it changes your bike's handling, and whether it's the right choice for your custom build.

The American Suspension 23° Rake Kit isn't just about aesthetics; it's a comprehensive system designed to alter your motorcycle's front-end geometry. This change in geometry significantly impacts the bike's handling characteristics, making it crucial to understand what you're getting into. When you increase the rake angle, you're essentially pushing the front wheel further out in front of the motorcycle. This creates a longer wheelbase and a more relaxed steering angle. The result is a bike that looks lower, longer, and meaner. However, this also means that the bike will handle differently, particularly at lower speeds. The increased rake makes the bike more stable at high speeds, which is great for cruising down the highway. However, it also makes the bike less nimble and responsive in tight turns and city traffic. You'll need to use more effort to initiate turns, and the bike will feel less eager to lean into corners. At slow speeds, you might notice a tendency for the front wheel to flop to one side, requiring you to actively counter-steer to maintain balance. Understanding these changes is paramount. It's not just about bolting on a kit; it's about fundamentally altering how your bike behaves. If you're used to a quick-handling, responsive machine, the 23° rake kit will be a significant departure. However, if you're after a laid-back cruiser with a commanding presence, the trade-offs might be well worth it. Keep in mind that the specific handling characteristics will also depend on other factors, such as the overall length of your forks, the weight distribution of your bike, and the type of tires you're running. It's always a good idea to consult with experienced riders and mechanics who have worked with raked front ends to get a better sense of what to expect.

What's Included in the Kit?

So, what exactly do you get when you order an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit? Typically, these kits come with everything you need to modify your front end properly. This usually includes:

• Raked Triple Trees: These are the heart of the kit. The triple trees are what actually change the angle of your forks, creating the desired rake. The kit includes both an upper and lower triple tree, specifically designed with the 23° rake angle. These trees are precision-machined to ensure proper alignment and smooth operation.
• Fork Extensions: Since you're pushing the front wheel further out, you'll likely need fork extensions to maintain the proper ride height and ground clearance. These extensions are typically made from high-strength steel or aluminum and are designed to be easily installed between your existing fork tubes and the fork caps. The length of the extensions will depend on your specific bike model and desired look.
• Steering Neck Extension: This extension is designed to lengthen the steering neck, which is the part of the frame that the forks attach to. This extension is necessary to maintain proper geometry and prevent the front wheel from hitting the frame. The steering neck extension is usually made from heavy-duty steel and is welded to the existing frame. This requires precise welding and should only be done by a qualified professional.
• Hardware and Bearings: The kit will also include all the necessary bolts, nuts, washers, and bearings for installation. Make sure everything is high-quality and properly sized for your application. Using the correct hardware is crucial for safety and reliability. The bearings should be of a high-quality tapered roller design to handle the increased loads and stresses of the raked front end.
• Instructions: A detailed instruction manual is a must-have. It should guide you through the installation process step-by-step, with clear diagrams and torque specifications. However, even with detailed instructions, it's highly recommended to have a professional mechanic install the kit, especially if you're not comfortable with welding and suspension work. The instruction manual should also include important information about adjusting the suspension and steering to compensate for the changes in geometry.

Keep in mind that the exact contents of the kit may vary depending on the specific model and manufacturer. Always check the product description carefully to ensure that you're getting everything you need for your particular bike. Some kits may also include additional accessories, such as headlight brackets or fender mounts, to accommodate the new front-end geometry. It's also important to note that some kits may require additional modifications to your bike, such as extending the brake lines or wiring harnesses. These modifications can add to the overall cost and complexity of the installation.

Installation: Is It a DIY Project?

Okay, so you've got the kit. Now comes the big question: can you install the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit yourself? Well, it depends. If you're a seasoned mechanic with experience in suspension work and welding, and you have access to the right tools, then maybe. But for most riders, this is a job best left to the professionals.

Here's why:

• Welding Required: As mentioned earlier, installing a rake kit often involves welding the steering neck extension to the frame. Welding is a critical process that requires precision and expertise. A poor weld can compromise the structural integrity of the frame and lead to catastrophic failure. Unless you're a certified welder with experience in motorcycle frames, it's best to leave this part to a professional.
• Suspension Expertise: Raking the front end changes the suspension geometry, which means you'll need to know how to adjust the suspension to compensate. This involves understanding things like spring rates, damping, and preload. If you don't have a solid understanding of these concepts, you could end up with a bike that handles poorly or is even unsafe to ride.
• Specialized Tools: Installing a rake kit requires a variety of specialized tools, such as a fork compressor, a bearing press, and a torque wrench. These tools can be expensive to purchase, and you may only use them once. A professional mechanic will already have these tools on hand, saving you the expense.
• Safety Concerns: Modifying the front end of your motorcycle is a serious undertaking that can have a significant impact on safety. If the installation is not done correctly, it could lead to accidents and injuries. A professional mechanic will have the knowledge and experience to ensure that the installation is done safely and correctly.

Even if you're a skilled mechanic, it's always a good idea to consult with a professional before attempting to install a rake kit. They can provide valuable advice and guidance, and they can help you avoid potential problems. And if you're not comfortable with any aspect of the installation, don't hesitate to hire a professional to do the job for you. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Handling and Ride Quality After Installation

Alright, let's talk about the most important part: how will your bike actually ride after installing the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit? As we touched on earlier, changing the rake angle significantly alters the bike's handling characteristics. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

• High-Speed Stability: One of the most noticeable changes is increased stability at high speeds. The longer wheelbase and relaxed steering angle make the bike feel more planted and less twitchy. This is great for long-distance cruising on the highway, where stability is paramount. You'll feel more confident and relaxed, even when encountering crosswinds or uneven road surfaces.
• Low-Speed Maneuverability: The trade-off for increased high-speed stability is reduced low-speed maneuverability. The increased rake makes the bike feel less nimble and responsive in tight turns and city traffic. You'll need to use more effort to initiate turns, and the bike will feel less eager to lean into corners. At slow speeds, you might notice a tendency for the front wheel to flop to one side, requiring you to actively counter-steer to maintain balance.
• Turning Radius: The 23° rake kit will increase the turning radius of your bike, making it more difficult to make tight turns. This can be a challenge in parking lots or when making U-turns. You'll need to plan your maneuvers more carefully and be prepared to make multi-point turns in tight spaces.
• Ride Comfort: The rake kit can also affect ride comfort. The longer wheelbase and relaxed steering angle can help to absorb bumps and vibrations, resulting in a smoother ride. However, the increased rake can also make the front suspension feel stiffer, especially if you don't adjust the suspension properly. Experiment with different suspension settings to find the right balance between comfort and handling.
• Overall Feel: Ultimately, the overall feel of the bike will be different. It will feel more like a laid-back cruiser and less like a sportbike. Whether this is a positive or negative change depends on your personal preferences and riding style. If you're looking for a bike that's fun and engaging to ride in the twisties, then a raked front end may not be the best choice. But if you're looking for a bike that's comfortable and stable for long-distance cruising, then the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit could be a great option.

Before making the decision to install a rake kit, it's important to consider your riding style and the type of riding you do most often. If you're primarily a city rider who spends a lot of time in stop-and-go traffic, then the reduced low-speed maneuverability of a raked front end could be a major drawback. But if you're primarily a highway rider who enjoys long-distance cruising, then the increased high-speed stability could be a major benefit.

Is the 23° Rake Kit Right for You?

So, after all that, is the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit the right choice for you? Here's a quick rundown to help you decide:

Consider this kit if:

• You want that stretched-out, custom look.
• You primarily ride on the highway.
• You value stability over agility.
• You're comfortable with a less responsive front end.

Maybe reconsider if:

• You do a lot of city riding.
• You enjoy twisty roads and quick handling.
• You're not comfortable with significant changes to your bike's handling.
• You're on a tight budget (installation can be pricey!).

Ultimately, the decision is yours. Do your research, talk to other riders, and consider your own riding style and preferences. If you go ahead with the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit, make sure to get it installed by a professional and take the time to get used to the new handling characteristics. Ride safe, and enjoy the new look!

By understanding the components, installation process, and potential impact on handling, you can make an informed decision about whether this modification is right for your motorcycle. Remember to prioritize safety and consult with experienced professionals to ensure a successful and enjoyable transformation of your ride.