American Suspension 23° Rake Kit: Everything You Need To Know

So, you're thinking about upgrading your ride with an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit, huh? Awesome! This modification can seriously transform the look and feel of your bike, giving it that long, mean, custom chopper vibe. But before you jump in headfirst, let's break down everything you need to know about these kits. We'll cover what they are, what they do, what to consider before buying, and even touch on the installation process. Let's get started!

What is an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit?

Okay, guys, let's get down to brass tacks. An American Suspension 23° Rake Kit is essentially a modification package designed to alter the front-end geometry of your motorcycle. The "rake" refers to the angle of your motorcycle's steering head relative to the vertical. By increasing the rake angle, you're effectively pushing the front wheel further out in front of the bike, which creates that stretched-out, chopper-style appearance that's so popular. This change isn't just cosmetic, though; it significantly impacts the handling and stability of your motorcycle. The 23° in the name indicates the amount of additional rake the kit provides beyond the stock rake angle of your bike. For example, if your bike has a stock rake of 30°, installing this kit would bring the total rake to 53°. The kit typically includes new triple trees (also known as yokes) that are specifically designed to accommodate the increased rake angle. These triple trees are crucial because they ensure that the front forks remain parallel and properly aligned, which is essential for safe and predictable handling. Without the correct triple trees, simply raking out the front end would create serious instability and make the bike incredibly difficult to control. Beyond the triple trees, a complete kit might also include extended fork tubes to compensate for the increased length created by the rake. These longer tubes maintain the proper ride height and prevent the front of the bike from sitting too low, which can negatively affect ground clearance and cornering ability. Depending on the specific kit and the motorcycle model it's designed for, you might also find additional components such as a new headlight mounting bracket, a longer brake line, and possibly even wiring extensions. These extra parts are necessary to ensure that all the components in the front end of your bike continue to function correctly after the rake kit is installed. So, in a nutshell, an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit is a comprehensive package that allows you to dramatically alter the appearance and handling of your motorcycle by increasing the rake angle. It's a popular modification for riders looking to achieve a custom chopper look, but it's important to understand the implications of this change before making the leap. Remember, changing the rake affects not only the aesthetics of your bike but also its handling characteristics, so it's crucial to do your research and ensure that you're making an informed decision.

Why Choose a 23° Rake Kit?

So why would you even consider a 23° rake kit? Good question! The most obvious reason is aesthetics. A 23° rake kit dramatically alters the profile of your motorcycle, giving it that long, low-slung, custom chopper look. It's a statement, a way to stand out from the crowd and express your individuality. If you're going for that classic, stretched-out front end, this kit is a direct path to achieving it. However, it's not just about looks. The increased rake also affects the handling characteristics of your bike. While it might seem counterintuitive, a longer wheelbase (which results from the increased rake) can actually improve stability at higher speeds. The bike becomes less twitchy and more planted, making it feel more confident on the open road. This is especially true on long, sweeping turns where the added stability can really shine. Now, let's be real, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. There are some trade-offs involved. The most noticeable is a decrease in maneuverability at lower speeds. The bike will require more effort to turn, and tight, low-speed maneuvers like parking or navigating through congested areas will become more challenging. This is because the increased rake effectively slows down the steering response, making the bike feel less nimble. Another reason to consider a 23° rake kit is to customize your motorcycle to better fit your riding style and preferences. Maybe you primarily ride on the highway and value stability over agility. In that case, the benefits of the increased rake might outweigh the drawbacks. Or perhaps you're building a show bike and want to create a visually stunning machine that turns heads wherever it goes. A 23° rake kit is certainly a way to achieve that goal. However, it's crucial to remember that modifying your motorcycle can also affect its resale value. While some buyers might appreciate the custom look, others might be wary of modifications, especially those that alter the bike's handling. So, if you're planning to sell your bike in the future, it's something to keep in mind. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to install a 23° rake kit is a personal one. There's no right or wrong answer. It depends on your individual priorities, your riding style, and the overall look you're trying to achieve. Just be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully and do your research before making the leap. And most importantly, make sure the kit you choose is compatible with your specific motorcycle model and that you have the necessary skills or access to professional installation services. The goal is to enhance your riding experience, not to create a dangerous or unreliable machine.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Okay, before you smash that "buy now" button, let's pump the brakes for a sec. There are a few crucial things you need to consider before investing in an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit. First and foremost, compatibility is king. Not every rake kit is created equal, and definitely not every kit fits every bike. Make absolutely sure that the kit you're eyeing is specifically designed for your make, model, and year of motorcycle. Check the manufacturer's website, read the product descriptions carefully, and if you're even slightly unsure, contact the seller or manufacturer directly to confirm compatibility. Trust me, you don't want to end up with a kit that doesn't fit – that's just a headache waiting to happen. Next up, think about the overall quality of the kit. You're messing with the front-end geometry of your motorcycle, so this is not the place to cheap out. Look for reputable brands like American Suspension (obviously!), and read reviews from other riders who have installed the same kit on their bikes. Pay attention to the materials used, the quality of the welds, and the overall fit and finish. A well-made kit will not only look better but will also be safer and more reliable in the long run. Then there's the installation process. Are you a seasoned mechanic with a fully equipped garage? Or are you more of a weekend warrior with basic tools? Installing a rake kit is not a simple bolt-on affair. It requires a good understanding of motorcycle mechanics, specialized tools, and a whole lot of patience. If you're not comfortable tackling this project yourself, it's best to leave it to the professionals. A qualified motorcycle mechanic can ensure that the kit is installed correctly and safely, which is worth the investment. And speaking of investment, let's talk about budget. Rake kits can range in price from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand, depending on the brand, the quality, and the included components. Don't just focus on the initial cost of the kit; also factor in the cost of installation (if you're not doing it yourself), any additional parts you might need (like longer brake lines or wiring extensions), and the potential impact on your insurance rates. Finally, consider the legal implications. Some states or countries have regulations regarding motorcycle modifications, including changes to the front-end geometry. Make sure that your modifications comply with all applicable laws and regulations before you hit the road. The last thing you want is to get pulled over and fined for having an illegal motorcycle. So, to recap, before you buy an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit, make sure to check compatibility, assess the quality, evaluate your installation skills, consider your budget, and research the legal implications. Do your homework, and you'll be well on your way to transforming your bike into the custom chopper of your dreams.

Installation: What to Expect

Alright, so you've got your shiny new American Suspension 23° rake kit. Now comes the moment of truth: installation. As I mentioned before, this isn't a job for the faint of heart. This is definitely a job for someone with solid mechanical skills or a professional. Here's a rundown of what you can generally expect during the installation process. First, you'll need to prep your bike. This usually involves removing the front wheel, fender, brake calipers, and handlebars. Basically, you're stripping down the front end to its bare bones. It's a good idea to take pictures as you disassemble everything, so you have a visual reference when it's time to put it all back together. Next, you'll need to remove the stock triple trees. This is where things can get tricky, as you'll need to support the motorcycle securely to prevent it from tipping over. A motorcycle lift is highly recommended for this step, but if you don't have one, you can use a combination of jacks and stands. Once the stock triple trees are out, you can install the new triple trees from the rake kit. Make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and pay close attention to the torque specifications for all the bolts. Overtightening or undertightening can both be problematic, so use a torque wrench and double-check your work. With the new triple trees in place, it's time to install the extended fork tubes (if your kit includes them). This is usually a straightforward process, but you'll need to make sure that the fork tubes are properly aligned and that the fork seals are in good condition. If the seals are worn or damaged, now is the time to replace them. Next up is reassembly. This involves putting everything back together in the reverse order of disassembly. Pay close attention to the routing of cables and wires to ensure that they don't get pinched or damaged. You'll also need to bleed the brakes to remove any air bubbles that may have gotten into the system. Once everything is back together, it's time for a test ride. Start with slow speeds in a controlled environment to get a feel for the new handling characteristics of your bike. Be aware that the steering will be different, and it may take some getting used to. If everything feels good, gradually increase your speed and test the brakes thoroughly. If you notice any unusual noises, vibrations, or handling issues, stop immediately and investigate the problem. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Finally, double-check all the bolts and connections after your test ride. Make sure everything is still tight and secure. It's a good idea to do this again after a few more rides, just to be sure. Installing an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit is a significant undertaking, but with the right tools, skills, and patience, it can be a rewarding experience. Just remember to take your time, follow the instructions carefully, and prioritize safety above all else.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it, guys! Everything you need to know about the American Suspension 23° rake kit. It's a serious modification that can drastically change the look and feel of your motorcycle. You will get that custom chopper appearance. But it's not a decision to be taken lightly. Weigh the pros and cons, consider your skill level, and make sure you're prepared for the changes in handling that come with the increased rake. If you do your homework and approach the installation with care, you can end up with a bike that not only looks amazing but also reflects your individual style and personality. Now get out there and ride safe! But always remember to wear your helmet and protective gear. And keep the shiny side up!