Best Fork Tubes? (2010)

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Jim Malm

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Jan 12, 2009
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I just found out that the little problem I was having with the offset on my front wheel of my'74 Commando was caused by bent fork tubes. As a result, I'm now in the market for a pair of new tubes. I reviewed past forum posts on the subject and found that buying from Forking by Frank is probably the way to go versus the Emgo pattern tubes or even the "factory" ones. Is Forking by Frank a good choice? What does a pair of fork tubes from Frank run (I'm calling them tomorrow, but was curious if I'm in for big sticker shock)? Are there other better choices?

Thanks,

Jim
 
The plating on the Frank's tubes is no better than stock. I have an old pair that I'm taking to a jobber that rebuilds hydraulic cylinders and having then hard-chromed. No experience with aftermarket tubes, but I'd guess they're no better or worse.
 
Jim,

My experience with Frank is a bit different that Danno's. I've bought two sets of fork tubes (stanchions) from them and both have been superb. However, they are pricey. I can't remember the exact cost but remember them being 40-50% more than the brit tubes.

I must say that I've bought a couple of pairs of UK manufactured tubes and they were very good. Not quite the quality of the Frank's finish, but no complaints so far. My biggest problem has been the fork bushings which I've found to vary greatly in inside diameters. I've bought them by the pair and one of the pair usually has to be worked on to fit the tubes. One is invariably too tight. Not sure why, but that's the way it's worked out for me.
 
If your tubes are not too bent they can be straightened with a hydraulic press. If you have a local Brit bike shop chances are they can do it for you. They can be straightened quite well and safely. If your tubes are in good shape otherwise, I'd consider straightening them.
 
Thanks for great suggestion on straightening the tubes! A friend with metal working expertise and a 12-ton hydraulic press was able to bend them back into useable condition.

For the record, Forking by Frank sells a pair of the tubes for $189 with $23 for shipping.

Thanks again,

Jim
 
Recent recommendations for the best fork tubes? Looking for a good ground hard chrome finish , the correct OD @ 1.3589" , etc
 
I ordered $$$ AN tubes, and got them this week , they are nicely finished but I consider undersized being right at the OD lower limit .:(
 
Madnorton said:
What do they measure?
Click to expand...
between 1.3574" and 1.3570" :eek:

I have requested information from Andover.

Best Fork Tubes? (2010)
Best Fork Tubes? (2010)
Best Fork Tubes? (2010)
Best Fork Tubes? (2010)
 
screw it , I figured I was going to have to order several to find better ( or never) , so I assembled the forks today.

Best Fork Tubes? (2010)
Best Fork Tubes? (2010)
 
If you are changing your fork tubes, it might be worth considering getting rid of the top yoke which has the tapers and buying tubes without tapers, so you can get adjustment of your steering by raising or lowering the yokes on the staunchions.
 
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