As my 2008 Triumph Bonneville has aged and the miles pile up (over 20K now), I noticed the front suspension being a bit “wobbly” at times, especially when decelerating or when cruising with only one hand on the bars.
I read about fork braces online and decided to try one. I selected the “SuperBrace” product based on looks and the fact that they had a model suitable for use with gaiters, and in a polished black finish, which I have.
I purchased my product from Cruiser Customizing because they were the only online vendor I could find who had it in stock and could ship same day, for a good price.
SuperBrace Fork Brace With Gaiters - Black Polished - Model SB-7002B
To begin the installation, you will need to loosen the existing lower gaiter clamp rings and remove them from the lower mounts. Then insert the front half of the SuperBrace immediately above the fender mounting bolts then attach the back half of the brace using the provided clamping bolts.
Once the brace is securely clamp-bolted in place, you will need to reattach the lower gaiters and clamp rings to the provided mount rims on the SuperBrace itself.
This installation is easy for the average person, and can be done in 15-30 minutes with simple hand tools.
SuperBrace Fork Brace With Gaiters Installed
SuperBrace Fork Brace With Gaiters Installed
The handling of my 2008 Triumph Bonneville has noticably improved agfter this installation. The steering is much more responsive and the motorcycle is more stable in cornering and braking. I highly recommend this product upgrade as a significant safety and performance upgrade.
Randal,
Can you speak to the pros/cons of a fork brace vs steering damper?
Just curious(i.e. I am considering a Norman Hyde damper) why you went this route.
Thx,
-O
To me they serve different purposes. The fork brace actually stiffens up the front forks making the suspension and steering more responsive as there is less flex and give in the front end. The steering damper (and I have not used one) simply keep the front fork from developing “wobble” and making steering smoother. I think the brace is better for an all around front end improvement, and the damper more helpful in a track situation. That’s my impression and reasoning. Good luck!