ZX11 forks

[Chrome Megaphone]

I've been browsing brake upgrade threads and didn't see this solution; bolting on a complete ZX11 fork, wheel and brake setup.  Does anyone know if the steering stem will accept it?

[connie_rider]

I think that Rev Rider did it long ago. If I recall right, the stem works, bearings fit, but the Tripple tree had to be machined to allow full steering range.

Ride safe, Ted.

[Chrome Megaphone]

Thanks Ted! 

[connie_rider]

The key word in my note was "I think".
Someone needs to confirm my poor memory.

Ride safe, Ted

[BruceR]

Did Rev do ZX11 or ZZR forks?  I do remember someone having to grind off the steering lock tab. 

[connie_rider]

Unknown. Hoping someone has the details.

Ride safe, Ted

[Stasch]

It was a ZRX front end - there used to be a tech article by Randy Forsland in the official site's tech pages over site.

Not there right now, as the library is in the process of being repopulated from the recent site conversion.

Revised to add:  I believe Bergman was one of the ones that did a ZRX front end.

[turbojoe78]

I did a ZRX1200 front end on my C10.  I believe Rev might have done a ZX14 and someone else has done a ZX9.

The ZRX front end is pretty much a bolt on with work needing to be done to the top triple tree to accommodate the ZG ignition.

The ZX front ends are upside down forks and need the center stem replaced with that of the ZG triple tree in order to bolt up to the frame.

[Chrome Megaphone]

Well I received a set of ZX11 forks and will post updates.

[sport rider]

I've not heard of the ZX11 being done, but will follow along and see how it goes for you.  I've done the ZRX change.  either the 1100 or 1200 will work.  it's a direct fit of the triple trees, but a few mods underneath the top triple have to be done for proper clearance, and to bolt on the key lock.

one thing I found was the zrx forks were slightly shorter than the stock ZG ones.  it changes steering dynamics a little bit.

FWIW, all the mods to the underside of the triple can be done with a simple grinder, drill and tap set.

[Chrome Megaphone]

I tried to trial fit the ZX11C forks to the Connie and was unsuccessful.  The bearings are too large for the races and steering stem is too large for the ZG bearings.

I did a quick search on ZX stem bearings and found they interchange with ZRX, at least according to one seller.  The forks are not upside-down.  Guess I'm left with pressing out the stem on the ZG triple tree and swapping that out but am unsure if the large ends are the same.

Hope so or this has been a huge waste of time and money. 

[connie_rider]

If memory serves, thinking the bearings are tapered roller bearings?
That makes it more difficult, but,,,,
You might be able to go to a bearing supplier, and find a set of bearings/races that fit the ZG bike neck / ZX stem bearings.
I've done that on projects over the years and was surprised to find bearings that did the trick.

Or (mebbe) you could install a ZG Stem into the ZX Tripple tree? (I think their pressed in)

Ride safe, Ted

[Chrome Megaphone]

Going to try swapping stems once I locate a press of a friend of a friend.  Failing that buying one from Harbor freight

[connie_rider]

Where are you? I have a press.

Ride safe, Ted

[Chrome Megaphone]

Houston area. 

[Chrome Megaphone]

Going to put the digital caliper to both lower triple clamps and make sure the bore is identical.  I really want the ZX forks ot only for appearance but safety as the engine is now essentially a GPZ1000 with shaft drive.

[connie_rider]

Perfect. I'm in North Houston.
I sent you a PM.
Give me a call.

Ride safe, Ted

[Chrome Megaphone]

Thanks for the offer Ted, and nice talking to you.      I've mulled it over, since the ZG forks are rebuilt with new seals and bushings, polished, and have new 16/18 inch tires, I'm going to get this thing rolling on original suspension.

What I'm going to do with the ZX stuff is build a 88-90 ZX10 starting this winter!     
The 10 is not as fast as the 11 but the major used parts are much cheaper.

[connie_rider]

Ok, makes sense.
I was a little concerned about damaging something if we tried to push out the steering stem.

Let me know how your project goes..

Ride safe, Ted