VL springer I pick up

Can I use this springer in a knuckle frame?

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flatheadDave
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VL springer I pick up

#1

Post by flatheadDave »

I’m pretty stoked to pick up this VL springer with crusty old chrom and old dog bone risers. Here’s some pictures. Can I use this in a knuckle frame?
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RUBONE
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Re: VL springer I pick up

#2

Post by RUBONE »

Short answer is no, the stem diameter is too large. However there are ways to do it. Replace the stem with a 1" type, or machine VL cups to fit the Knuckle frame, or machine the frame to accept VL cups, or....you get the idea. It will sit about an inch higher on a Knuckle frame as well due to the frame rake. And if you use it as is with the 1-1/8" stem you'll need all the VL top nuts. Ive used option 2 in the past but you must be careful because they get a bit thin and you need a good radius to prevent them breaking off.
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Re: VL springer I pick up

#3

Post by RooDog »

Don't mess with the frame, or you'll never be able to return it to stock.
Personally, I would try to make up, and change the stem to 1", or $ell the fork to a collector, and enjoy the profit.....
flatheadDave
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Re: VL springer I pick up

#4

Post by flatheadDave »

Thanks guys. I did find an old thread that also continued the discussion and gave me more info. It’s wild to think that this VL springer was chromed and some Flanders 3.5 in risers were added with some 60s Z bars. I looked that the risers and they are brass under the chrome and stamped 3 5. Real Flanders was a nice surprise. It made me think more about the bike this was on. It must have been on a VL frame, maybe modified with a knuckle head engine? Or a real trippy VL… I guess we will never know.
flatheadDave
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Re: VL springer I pick up

#5

Post by flatheadDave »

Some one wants to trade me an XA springer for this I beam.
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Re: VL springer I pick up

#6

Post by RUBONE »

A real one or modern repop? See your other posting.
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