Can I lower my bike 2-3 inches?

[Joshwuh]

Hey guys, I recently bought a 77 XS400 and am new to the motorcycle world. I was wondering if there was a relatively easy way to lower my bike 2-3 inches because right now I am almost on my tip toes with both feet down. Thanks for the help.

Josh

 

[drewpy]

yep, ride in a channel

 

[redratbike]

hee hee

drop the forks through the yokes , fit shorter rear shocks, remove some foam from the seat,wear cuban heels?

 

[Joshwuh]

How do you drop the forks through the yokes?

 

[redratbike]

How do you drop the forks through the yokes?

ok i might be mistaken on an xs as i've only just got mine and not paid too much attention but on some other bikes you can undo the yokes and slide the fork legs up through the yokes

 

[drewpy]

ok i might be mistaken on an xs as i've only just got mine and not paid too much attention but on some other bikes you can undo the yokes and slide the fork legs up through the yokes

correct-o-mondo

 

[bswinn]

I had the same issue and did exactly what redrat suggested. Loosen up the bolts on the triple trees holding the forks in place. Drop front end an inch or two. Then i went ahead and cut 2 inches of foam off the seat and recovered it. Now I can be level footed at a stop.

 

[Under Dog]

Just be aware that dropping the forks MAY adversely effect the way the bike handles...

 

[Joshwuh]

Thanks guys I will try dropping the fork through the yokes. What are my options for the rear shocks?

 

[Vlad]

The previous owner of my bike apparently had the same problem with not being able to touch the ground so he cut the studs for the shock mount on the swing arm and welded some studs a few inches lower. I can't vouch for his welding skills but it held my fat ass for about 6 months before I decided to replace it. If you wanted it I would be willing to part with it.