[Jakobi]

So after my Marzocchis were confirmed to be eating themselves *crying eyes* I started looking into feasable options. Where to go, what to do. TTX/KYB/Showa/WP? I've always been fond of KYB. Quality Japanese products, build quality, knowledge base, and parts availabilty. All what you want in suspension components. I considered the TTX carts, but they are a discontinued line (little support) and I'd still be dealing with questionable quality of the Marzocchi outers/crap coatings.

So, KYB SSS it is. I spent 2 full days reading, researching, speaking with those in the know (Thanks Glenn!) and chasing listings on ebay trying to get info from sellers (none helped) and find the right forks at the right price. By some amazing feat I asked on another forum if anyone could measure up their honda gear. A mate I once assisted with jetting adv jumped aboard and took some measurements and we were in progress. A few pms back and forward and he explained how he ditched his PSF for a set of SSS. Confirmed the models, offsets, measurements, everything I needed. He checked his records and found the ebay seller he purchased through and told me they had none on hand atm. Next PM theres a link to a new take off set from a 2012 YZ250F - PERFECT condition, and cheaper than most the used sets I've been watching. Snaffled up on the spot. So thats step one done!

Now my findings prior to buying - Variables in the KYB SSS range.
12+ 250F = 54 upper OD, 32mm lugs
10+ 450F = 54 upper OD, 32mm lugs
08 - 11 250F = 56 upper OD, 32mm lugs
08 - 09 450F = 56 upper OD. 32mm lugs
06 - 08 All = 56 upper OD, 35mm lugs
12+ WR450F = 56 upper OD, 35mm lugs

Axle clamp offsets - hard to get the verdict on, but the anodized ones are certainly 32mm from fork center to axle center. The Marzocchis are 35mm.
Triple clamps (YZ250F) Earlier models were all 25mm offset with larger upper. 2012-13 moved to a 22mm offset triple (same as stock Gas Gas). If I need to fo back to 25mm I'll probably need to source the whole clamp assembly like others have done, fab up some stops, and also shim out the upper mount.

So what effect does that have? The smaller lug will effectively move the front wheel back 3mm, increasing trail. While this adds stability to the bike and make it less inclined to change direction, the most noticable effect will be tip in and feel when laid over. It may want to tuck, and take more active riding to control. It may work well with the 2013 chasis, or it may make it feel dangerous. I won't know until I ride it. It'll be what I try first though, with the backup plan sourcing a complete triple.

I still need to finalise the transactions and am hoping that things run smoothly in that department. I still need to arrange for an oversize brake carrier (#POW106), some custom wheel spacers, and an axle from somewhere. Steve 'twowheels' may be of assistance here, but I'll also look into some Honda applications too.