XJ550 CBR900RR Front End Conversion Project

So, my 81' maxim 550 has under gone quite a few changes over the past 6 months.

I recently got it in a running condition and made a lot of changes. The stock brakes are probably the worst I've ever experienced, and same with the front forks (maybe I'm just used to my new R1 lol), so I started doing some research for front end swaps. There's not a ton of information out there on it especially for this specific bike so I wanted to help out the members and tell you exactly what is needed.

I found a donor CBR 900RR front end with everything included, and picked up a master cylinder off a 2015 S1000RR to go with it as well as some braided steel lines.

So far I only have the front end installed, and still have everything that needs to be hooked up.

WHAT YOU NEED:
- Front end including triple trees off donor motorcycle.
- Bearing conversion kit from All Balls Racing (they have a comprehensive swap list)
*Just because they make a bearing kit does not mean it will work.... VERIFY STEERING STEM LENGTH!!!*
The main thing is making sure it's not too short, too long can be fixed with spacers within reason.

Be careful when disassembling the stock bearings, the loose ball bearings with fall everywhere.

I did have to do some minor grinding on the inside diameter of the top hole in the steering column to get the new stem all the way in but nothing too difficult.

Pictures in order: Before, after mods, after front end conversion. Still need to do a lot of work on it but the rake angle is greatly improved, and the new suspension is amazing. This front end is actually much lighter as well.

Post your thoughts/questions. PS: forgive me for my messy garage it's in need of a much needed cleaning.

 

Looks fantastic! what are your plans for gauges?
Also do you intend on mounting rear sets?

 

Haven't decided on rearsets, can't figure out how I would do it.

I have some gauges that are small but I haven't figured out how to mount them yet. Will post more pics when I can.

 

Looks sweet and quite modern.

 

Appreciate that! I'm going to be adding steel braided lines, and other new hardware in the coming weeks. Probably will end like a cafe racer/streetfighter blend.

 

Looks great- nice work!
A couple of questions if you don't mind: What seat hump/ tail is that and what size tyres are front and rear?

 

I wouldn't. Bother with being careful with the ball bearings..... Just use a magnet, collect them, and throw them away. Put tapered roller bearings in to complete the job.

Dave

 

Since when do hoarders throw things away

 

You can't toss 'em! They're original equipment!

 

That's why I have a container of them....

 

Looks good! Allballs is a lifesaver.