S tail on a Ss = XB12S1/2

[safteyfirst]

I started my S conversion last night, got the bike torn down and kickin around the idea of JB welding some aluminum bolts into upper frame holes, cutting off smooth, drill and tap where I need to be. Has anyone tried this? It looks like there is enough meat on the frame to relocate the hole a tiny bit. I am going to try using frame spacers first because I want the jacked up tail look and hopefully Monday I can upload some pics.

 

[Wolf]

I realised the spacer would cuase a different look, the jacked up style, hence why i have opted for the welding the arms to suit. Make it look stock like the pics at the start of this thread.
We'll all have some great stories i imagine.
Best of luck to all.
Cheers,
WOLF

 

[safteyfirst]

Sorry I didn't post pics on "Monday" waited 5 weeks to get trunk pan from ASB. Went ahead with some home made spacers. Actually, not that difficult once you get the correct parts. I don't know what you guys used, but here is my parts list for an s tail conversion. Hope it helps anyone doing this mod.
S Model parts
1. Side rails
2. Trunk pan
3. Battery tray
4. Seat latch release cable
5. Rear brake reservior
6. Seat

 

[BuckDaniels]

So using spacers instead of modifying frame or rails worked ok?
I'm starting to consider this but I don't want to do anything permanent to my frame. Also don't want to make it any harder to flatfoot.

 

[nitto12ss]

Where are the pic's? [confused]

 

[safteyfirst]

quote]So using spacers[/quote] I'm still waiting on a few little details, (rear master reservior, seat lacth cable) then tear down and paint. When I reassemble I will document my changes with pics and post. Yes, the spacers worked perfect and I used steel stock that makes up the difference in the gap at the bottom of the rails. I used the SCG seat because I like the look of it and my feet are actually coser to the ground now than with the original ss tail. And I'm only 5'9". Have'nt rode it yet, but it does seem to change my position a little more forward on the bike.

 

[nitto12ss]

Pictures required Pipeit.

 

[BuckDaniels]

I'm getting interested. Can't wait for more details. Sounds like you have the result I'm looking for

 

[Wolf]

Ditto.
Question:
is the Rear brake reservior from the S actually needed or can the SS be used?

WOLF

 

[safteyfirst]

I have a favor to ask any "S" owners. Can any of you measure the rear shock reservior hose from center to center of the banjos? The ss bikes have a short hose that puts the reservior on top of the wire harness when converting to a short tail and is too cramped for long term. I can assume harness damage will result from vibration and heat. The longer s hose is not avialiable by itself, but I found a shop that can make a hose and recharge the nitrogen, it would be helpfull to have an exact length to look clean and original.

 

[safteyfirst]

Here is my work in progress

spacers at the bottom of subframe create clearance for rear shock

But now I got an ungly space/gap. Thinking of sheet metal "cover" that would slide over side rail attached by and only showing upper bolt

I will post more when as I complete more. I did this mod because I saw Nitto's bike on this post, but I like the jacked up tail look.

 

[nitto12ss]

Looks good, but the only problem with doing it that way is it also lifts the tail. Just one more option available to everyone now, thanks for posting.[up]

 

[bajamxr77]

straitpipeit, looks good, I am glad to finally see someone go through with the mod. I am going for a low tail look like Nitto's. I have all the parts just none of the time. Hoping to get to it this spring. Pretty sure I am just going to have the rails reworked at a fab shop. Nitto any chance you would turn loose the contact info for the shop that did the mod on you rails?

 

[Wolf]

Agree. Go the fab shop.
Looks neater, and as i was told, stronger.
Cheers,
WOLF

 

[nitto12ss]

Nitto any chance you would turn loose the contact info for the shop that did the mod on you rails?

I would if I could remember. LOL
The guy is located in Riverside CA, my dads friend told us about him. Nothing special was done though, and unless you live in SoCal I would just find a local guy. If you really want his info I can try and find it though.

 

[bajamxr77]

Nitto, don't go through too much trouble. I will hit up some local shops first, if I run into problems I will get back to you.

 

[nitto12ss]

10-foursies ^^^^^^^^

 

[Wolf]

UPDATE (sort of): well i've been out of action for 13 weeks now, massive operation on my foot (instead of my ride ), but never the less, the mod went ahead so i've been told.
I have a very good mechanic friend who has worked on this when he had time, and told me it should be ready very soon. He's taken notes, pictures, and even video (i think) of what and how he's done it.
So fingers crossed, i will have a pimped out XB with a short ass and a very, VERY, happy rider.
Post up when i can.
Cheers,
WOLF

 

[bajamxr77]

Wolf, I can't wait to see! Had a good 230 mile ride today, plan to start my tear down tomorrow afternoon.

 

[safteyfirst]

It helps alot to have a shop lengthen the rear shock resivior hose to mount it where it belongs on the s tail. The seat will latch fine with no need to alter tabs or latch position and the spacing in perfect at the airbox cover. I had mine done 11 5/8" center to center. if anybody wants pics I can post them, otherwise, I've been too happy riding this thing!