Hey guys! Ever wondered how to give your bike that super cool, stretched-out look? Well, the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit might just be what you're looking for. This kit is designed to alter the front-end geometry of your motorcycle, giving it a longer wheelbase and a distinctive, laid-back appearance. In this article, we're going to dive deep into what this kit is all about, what it includes, how it affects your bike's handling, and whether it's the right choice for you. So, buckle up and let’s get started!

What is a Rake Kit?

Before we get into the specifics of the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit, let's quickly cover what a rake kit actually is. Rake refers to the angle of your motorcycle's steering head relative to the vertical. Changing this angle affects the bike's handling characteristics and overall appearance. A rake kit, like the American Suspension 23° kit, modifies this angle, typically increasing it to extend the front end. This results in that elongated, custom look that's popular among certain riders. Think choppers and cruisers; that's the kind of style we're talking about here.

Rake kits come with several components designed to ensure the modification is safe and effective. These usually include new triple trees (the part that holds your front forks), extended fork tubes, and sometimes even frame modifications. When installed correctly, a rake kit can dramatically change your bike's aesthetics, making it stand out from the crowd. The crucial element to remember is that this modification isn't just about looks; it also impacts how your bike handles on the road. A higher rake angle generally increases stability at high speeds but can reduce maneuverability at lower speeds. Therefore, understanding these trade-offs is essential before making such a significant change to your motorcycle.

Installing a rake kit is not a simple bolt-on procedure; it requires a thorough understanding of motorcycle mechanics and careful attention to detail. If you're not confident in your abilities, it's always best to have a professional handle the installation. Safety should be your top priority, and ensuring the kit is installed correctly is paramount. Moreover, the choice of kit matters, and the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit is designed to offer a specific balance of style and performance. However, it's important to consider your riding style and the type of roads you typically ride on before deciding if this kit is the right fit for you. In the following sections, we'll explore the specifics of the American Suspension kit and its impact on your riding experience, giving you a clearer picture of what to expect.

Features of the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit

So, what makes the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit stand out? Well, let's dive into its key features. This kit is specifically designed to add 23 degrees of rake to your motorcycle's front end. But it's not just about the angle; it's about how this change is achieved and the quality of the components used.

First off, the kit typically includes high-quality triple trees made from billet aluminum. These aren't your run-of-the-mill parts; they're precision-engineered to ensure a perfect fit and enhanced durability. The triple trees are designed to maintain proper fork alignment and provide a secure mounting point for the extended fork tubes. Speaking of fork tubes, the kit also comes with extended tubes that are specifically matched to the 23-degree rake angle. These tubes are usually made from heavy-duty steel and are chrome-plated for a sleek, custom look. The quality of these components is crucial because they're responsible for supporting the front end of your motorcycle and ensuring smooth, stable handling.

Beyond the triple trees and fork tubes, the American Suspension kit often includes all the necessary hardware for installation. This means you'll get the bolts, nuts, and washers you need to securely mount the new components to your bike. The kit may also include detailed instructions to guide you through the installation process. However, as we mentioned earlier, installing a rake kit is not a task for the faint of heart. It requires a good understanding of motorcycle mechanics and the ability to follow instructions carefully. If you're not comfortable working on your bike, it's always best to seek the help of a professional mechanic.

One of the standout features of the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit is its focus on maintaining ride quality. While a 23-degree rake angle will definitely change the way your bike handles, the kit is designed to minimize any negative impacts on ride comfort and stability. The triple trees are engineered to provide optimal fork offset, which helps to maintain a balanced feel on the road. The extended fork tubes are also designed to work in harmony with the triple trees, ensuring smooth suspension action and predictable handling. The combination of these features means that you can achieve that custom, stretched-out look without sacrificing too much in terms of ride quality. However, it's important to remember that any change to your bike's geometry will affect its handling characteristics, so it's crucial to be aware of these changes and adjust your riding style accordingly.

Installation Process

Alright, so you've got your American Suspension 23° Rake Kit in hand. What's next? Well, the installation process is where things can get a bit tricky. As we've mentioned a few times, this isn't a simple bolt-on job. It requires a good amount of mechanical knowledge and the right tools. If you're not confident in your abilities, it's always best to have a professional mechanic handle the installation.

Before you even think about turning a wrench, make sure you have a clear understanding of the instructions. Read them thoroughly and make sure you understand each step. It's also a good idea to gather all the necessary tools and materials before you start. You'll likely need a motorcycle jack, various wrenches and sockets, a torque wrench, and possibly some specialized tools for removing and installing the fork tubes.

The first step in the installation process is usually to remove the front wheel and forks from your motorcycle. This involves disconnecting the brake lines, removing the calipers, and loosening the triple tree bolts. Once the forks are removed, you can start disassembling the stock triple trees. This may require the use of a special tool to remove the stem nut. With the stock triple trees removed, you can begin installing the new American Suspension triple trees. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and torque all the bolts to the specified values.

Next, you'll need to install the extended fork tubes. This involves disassembling the stock fork tubes and transferring the internal components to the new tubes. Be careful when handling the fork springs and oil, as they can be messy. Once the fork tubes are assembled, you can install them into the new triple trees. Again, make sure to torque all the bolts to the specified values.

With the forks installed, you can reinstall the front wheel and brake components. Double-check all your connections and make sure everything is secure. Finally, lower the bike off the jack and take it for a test ride. Pay attention to how the bike handles and make sure everything feels right. If you notice any unusual vibrations or noises, stop immediately and inspect your work. The whole process of installation may take several hours, depending on your experience and the complexity of your motorcycle. Taking breaks and ensuring each step is meticulously completed is crucial for safety and performance.

Remember, safety should always be your top priority. If you're not comfortable with any part of the installation process, don't hesitate to seek help from a professional. A properly installed rake kit can transform the look of your bike and enhance your riding experience. But a poorly installed kit can be dangerous and could lead to serious accidents. So, take your time, be careful, and don't be afraid to ask for help if you need it.

Handling and Ride Quality After Installation

Okay, so you've successfully installed the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit. Congrats! But what can you expect in terms of handling and ride quality? Well, as we've mentioned before, changing the rake angle of your motorcycle will have a noticeable impact on its handling characteristics. A 23-degree rake angle will generally make your bike more stable at high speeds. This is because the increased rake angle increases the wheelbase, which makes the bike less responsive to steering inputs. In other words, it takes more effort to turn the bike, but it also makes it less likely to wobble or become unstable at high speeds. This can be a good thing if you frequently ride on the highway or like to cruise at high speeds.

However, the increased rake angle can also make the bike less maneuverable at low speeds. This is because the longer wheelbase and reduced steering angle make it harder to turn the bike in tight spaces. You may find it more difficult to make U-turns or navigate through parking lots. The bike may also feel heavier and more cumbersome at low speeds. If you do a lot of city riding or frequently ride in congested areas, this can be a significant drawback.

In terms of ride quality, the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit is designed to minimize any negative impacts on ride comfort. The triple trees are engineered to provide optimal fork offset, which helps to maintain a balanced feel on the road. The extended fork tubes are also designed to work in harmony with the triple trees, ensuring smooth suspension action and predictable handling. However, it's important to remember that any change to your bike's geometry will affect its ride quality. You may notice that the bike feels different on the road, and it may take some time to adjust to the new handling characteristics. You may also need to adjust your riding style to compensate for the changes.

For instance, you may need to lean the bike more when cornering or use more throttle to maintain stability at low speeds. It's also a good idea to practice riding in a safe, controlled environment before taking the bike out on the open road. This will give you a chance to get a feel for the new handling characteristics and make any necessary adjustments. Overall, the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit can provide a significant improvement in stability and a custom look. However, it's important to be aware of the potential drawbacks in terms of maneuverability and be prepared to adjust your riding style accordingly. Taking these considerations into account will help you enjoy the benefits of the rake kit while maintaining a safe and comfortable ride.

Is the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit Right for You?

So, after all this, the big question remains: Is the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit the right choice for you? The answer, as with most things motorcycle-related, depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you're looking to give your bike that classic, stretched-out chopper look, then this kit is definitely worth considering. The 23-degree rake angle will dramatically change the appearance of your bike, making it stand out from the crowd. Plus, the high-quality components from American Suspension ensure that the modification is both stylish and durable.

However, it's important to weigh the aesthetic benefits against the potential drawbacks in terms of handling. If you primarily ride in the city or frequently navigate tight spaces, the increased rake angle may make your bike less maneuverable. You may find it more difficult to make quick turns or maneuver through traffic. On the other hand, if you primarily ride on the highway or like to cruise at high speeds, the increased rake angle can improve stability and make the bike feel more planted on the road. It's also important to consider your riding experience. If you're a new rider, you may want to start with a smaller rake angle to get a feel for how it affects the bike's handling. A 23-degree rake angle can be a significant change, and it may take some time to adjust to the new handling characteristics.

Another factor to consider is the cost of the kit and the installation. The American Suspension 23° Rake Kit can be a significant investment, and the installation can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. If you're not comfortable doing the installation yourself, you'll need to factor in the cost of hiring a professional mechanic. Before making a decision, it's a good idea to do some research and compare the American Suspension kit to other rake kits on the market. Read reviews, talk to other riders, and get a sense of what's out there. You may also want to consult with a motorcycle mechanic to get their opinion on the best rake kit for your bike and your riding style. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to install an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit is a personal one. There's no right or wrong answer; it all comes down to your individual needs and preferences. By carefully weighing the pros and cons and doing your research, you can make an informed decision that will enhance your riding experience.