front shock

[FrankThys]

XB9R 2003 .......... can the front shock absorbers be intalled flush with the top of the upper plate, or do we have to respect the markings on it, and by that the stopring on the bottem?

 

[Cooter]

I assume it's for handlebar clearance? Maybe try the later model fork caps. They are lower profile.

Theres many reasons why I wouldn't do it, but honestly lots of bikes came with no stop ring.
You could use the thin spacer on top of the ring to act as a stop ring extension?
You will be upsetting the fine balance of front to rear height, and rake, and steering angle, but it's +/- 1/2"? Probably not an issue if you're not in Moto GP.

 

[AZmidget91]

I assume he actually wants more height. Yeah, not ideal, but it's fine to do that.

 

[FrankThys]

yes, i'm not short, 1,86. just wanted to know if it's safe to get a bet more height from the front. didn't test it yet, so anyway if i don't like it it goes back to the stop rings.

 

[user_deleted]

raising the triple clamps as they relate to the tubes.....OR in other words dropping the tubes in the clamps drastically alters the trail measurement. what is trail? takes a bit of explanation. does changing trail spec adversely affect handling characteristics built into your 2003? yes. how much? depends on how hard you ride. if riding moderately you'll never notice the difference.