I agree with "Honda NC750X stuff" - My NC750X is very stiff, and doesn't really need any extra help. Here's a tip though that should work for any bike. Stand in front of the bike, clamp the frontwheel between your knees and/or lower legs so that its pointing forwards and can't turn. Then grab the bars and push one side and pull the other keeping the wheel pointing forwards. If (like my Guzzi LM with it's plastic mudguard) there is noticeable (~2-4 inches) flexing at the bar ends when you use full force, then you *need* a fork brace - and when you see and feel that flex you won't need further convicing! Get somebody to help if you don't have a centerstand.
I got one for my 2013 CB1100. A couple years ago I took it off to install a Don Vesco Rabid Transit sport fairing. Now both are off the bike. :^) I never noticed a difference and folks on the CB1100 forum stated you had to ride very hard to see a difference. I figure if I want to ride really hard I'd buy a bike more suitable for that sort of thing.
How thoughtful of you to put this information up - thank you. I've just bought a 2008 CB400SF (very excited to pick it up)... and just browsing the various things that might be able to treat 'him' (Blu) with... I'll cross this one off & put the $ towards a centre stand.
Nice. I recently put a brace on my Vstrom, can't say I've noticed much difference. I do take it on rough terrain sometimes, so I think it may still be worth it, as it's cheap and easy to install. I liked your wooden model!
Thanks for the great video! I completely agree, the fork brace isn't needed on most modern bikes, however I wouldn't mind the extra support on a dirt bike. Looks like Australia is loosening restrictions... No doubt you'll you'll be taking a break from your shop projects which means the NC Community will be searching for new creative entertainment. :)
I had to choose either a fork brace or neoprene fork boots. The zip tie for the fork boots goes right where the fork brace goes. I chose the boots. I did put a fork brace on my 2007 Vstrom 650 & it was much more stable in high cross winds. It used to get blown all over the road. When it wasn't windy I didn't notice any difference with the brace.
Fork boots will extend your shock life to forever , i had to replace mine at three years due to pitting , 7 years with gaitors they still look new . Same with rear shock . (which is in a good place for suspension but the worst place possible for roads crap blasting .
I had a fork brace on my 2015 NC750. In less than 1 yr, I had to service the fork twice for leaks, somewhere early last 2022 and just recently in early Feb. My mech told me the culprit was the brace. Modern bikes really do not need it. It's more aesthetics than functional. Hence, it's off the bike now. Afterwhich, felt the fork to be more plush.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff I think it really depends on how the brace is fixed. If tight in, will cup the fork inwards, pushed out too much, forks gonna cup outwards. I just tested the grip tires btwn 2 anchored objects and tried pushing the handlebar hard left and right, it really didn't move hence giving me the belief that the brace is not necessary more for aesthetics. 😜
but, but it is an extra thing to put on the bike so that must be good ! AND it has a red bit in it to match the bike so that must make it even better.... (remember to buy 2 so that you have a spare just in case)
On both the NC700 and the '97 BMW F650 I have owned there is a brace of sorts built in under the fender. www.bikebandit.com/oem-parts/2013-honda-nc700x/o/m155494#sch794012
It needs rust treatment after 5 years salty winter road riding and the threads are not particularly load bearing imao . Its a pain in the butt to line up to refit when its a rusty heapo crap ! By year 10...More fork oil changes would have kept me more aware of this piece of the bike. Also the spacers are easily lost .
Gave you something to do making that excellent fork and wheel model? Or did you have it already? I am constantly surprised by how good the NC750X handling is. I know the suspension components aren't as high quality as the Africa Twin, but I am fine with the handling especially with the Michelin Road 5's on the wheels.
Steve Bolton - yes I was surprised when I first rode it too. I didn’t expect it to handle very well given it’s very basic and budget suspension components.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff The weight being low on the NC really helps. New Euro5 engine predicted for next year... www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/news-and-views/news/2020/april/all-new-engine-for-honda-nc750-replacement
Yeah, I remember that my old cb750fb had one of those. Didn't seem to do anything? But, on the other hand. The whole frame was made of rubber. So, that little plate wouldn't really do anything. It was fun to ride tho, when I was 20-21. But not sure if I'd be brave enough to push one of those that hard anymore🤔😬
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Yep but the small twins were fantastic engines. Ride them for several hours and when really warmed up the performance improved. I started with the slow CD175, CB200 with a disk brake, CJ250T although that did misfire in heavy rain...
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff The existing stiffener isn't overly substantial top to bottom, but is steel bolted directly to the sliders (no friction grip) and in the horizontal direction would offer some very usefully stiffness. I reckon you'd notice if it wasn't there, and may explain the little to no difference noticeable with the additional unit.
i dont know about the nc750x but the my cb500x under the front fender has a thick metal bracket acting in some how like a fork brace... maybe the nc750x has one too and thats why you didnt see much difference...
Hello sir. I have a 2019 NC750X and wanted to know if the bracket that is under the front fender serves any supporting purpose for the forks, or is it just there for the fender? I am waiting for a new bracket to arrive (old one got damaged in a recent accident), but wanted to know if I can ride the bike without it until then? My initial thought was that such a thin piece of metal probably doesn't make much difference on fork support, but I am not entirely sure.
Not required. It was an essential addition back in the 80’s when forks were made out of cheese. The brace reduces fork twist when under cornering load. But the NC forks are pretty rigid without this aftermarket addition.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Hello sir. I wasn't asking about the aftermarket brace like the one that you put on top of the fender. I was asking about the one that is between the fender and tire that comes with the bike from factory. I have a new one on order, but I don't know if I can ride without it until then.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Yes it is like your (just blue). I was able to temporarily mount the fender without the bracket by using nuts on the inside. My worry is whether that bracket is also required for fork reinforcement.
Love the old-school balsawood simulation. Extra points for that!
I agree with "Honda NC750X stuff" - My NC750X is very stiff, and doesn't really need any extra help. Here's a tip though that should work for any bike. Stand in front of the bike, clamp the frontwheel between your knees and/or lower legs so that its pointing forwards and can't turn. Then grab the bars and push one side and pull the other keeping the wheel pointing forwards. If (like my Guzzi LM with it's plastic mudguard) there is noticeable (~2-4 inches) flexing at the bar ends when you use full force, then you *need* a fork brace - and when you see and feel that flex you won't need further convicing! Get somebody to help if you don't have a centerstand.
Amp2Amp - good tip. Thanks.
Thanks for to prevent me against buying a fork brace for my NC750XD.
Well I went for a ride today with my eldest son, just a quick ride in to the Entrance a little fed and return home. See you on the road.
I got one for my 2013 CB1100. A couple years ago I took it off to install a Don Vesco Rabid Transit sport fairing. Now both are off the bike. :^) I never noticed a difference and folks on the CB1100 forum stated you had to ride very hard to see a difference. I figure if I want to ride really hard I'd buy a bike more suitable for that sort of thing.
How thoughtful of you to put this information up - thank you. I've just bought a 2008 CB400SF (very excited to pick it up)... and just browsing the various things that might be able to treat 'him' (Blu) with... I'll cross this one off & put the $ towards a centre stand.
A perfect description. Thanks sir.
Well explained example how tecnical progress improves motorcycle safety!
Nice. I recently put a brace on my Vstrom, can't say I've noticed much difference. I do take it on rough terrain sometimes, so I think it may still be worth it, as it's cheap and easy to install. I liked your wooden model!
Thanks. Yes, at worst it can’t do any harm
Thanks for the great video! I completely agree, the fork brace isn't needed on most modern bikes, however I wouldn't mind the extra support on a dirt bike. Looks like Australia is loosening restrictions... No doubt you'll you'll be taking a break from your shop projects which means the NC Community will be searching for new creative entertainment. :)
Richard M - thanks mate. Yes we are allowed out for day rides, with the social distancing still in place - which isn’t a great burden.
Since when do our NC's have "High quality suspension components"? You really had me there!
crunchers9 - ha! I never said the NC specially, had high quality suspension. BUT it’s still way better than the bikes I owned in the 70’s! 😁
Thank you. Your videos are always very helpful.
interesting experiment , hope this means you are out and about again. Stay safe all.
Fatbudgie Killen - yes. Short day rides with social distancing. All good.
You are gifted. Very Beautifully explained ❤❤
I had to choose either a fork brace or neoprene fork boots. The zip tie for the fork boots goes right where the fork brace goes. I chose the boots. I did put a fork brace on my 2007 Vstrom 650 & it was much more stable in high cross winds. It used to get blown all over the road. When it wasn't windy I didn't notice any difference with the brace.
Fork boots will extend your shock life to forever , i had to replace mine at three years due to pitting , 7 years with gaitors they still look new . Same with rear shock . (which is in a good place for suspension but the worst place possible for roads crap blasting .
coming up next, a cut-away working wood version of a motorcycle engine :)
I wouldn't put it past him,. His obvously very handy.
Interesting & good model.
Thanks for the info.
Good wishes.
Brilliant! Thank you! My CB500X came with a fork brace, I've always thought it was a big wank, now I don't...
Yes. It’s only a very small wank 🤣
Si señor ,está mucho más estable,gracias por compartir
I had a fork brace on my 2015 NC750. In less than 1 yr, I had to service the fork twice for leaks, somewhere early last 2022 and just recently in early Feb. My mech told me the culprit was the brace. Modern bikes really do not need it. It's more aesthetics than functional. Hence, it's off the bike now. Afterwhich, felt the fork to be more plush.
Fair enough. But mine has done 98,000km now, with no problem.
But in my defence I did say I didn’t think it needed it 😁
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff I think it really depends on how the brace is fixed. If tight in, will cup the fork inwards, pushed out too much, forks gonna cup outwards. I just tested the grip tires btwn 2 anchored objects and tried pushing the handlebar hard left and right, it really didn't move hence giving me the belief that the brace is not necessary more for aesthetics. 😜
but, but it is an extra thing to put on the bike so that must be good ! AND it has a red bit in it to match the bike so that must make it even better.... (remember to buy 2 so that you have a spare just in case)
C Cooper - yes you have a valid point. Since when does bling have to have a practical use?
Every bit of extra weight hits your fuel consumption and acceleration/braking performance. If only I heeded my own advice and went on a diet...
Thanks for this clear useful video.
Great explanation and nice model! Thanks for putting this together 🙂
Keeping the forks from flexing sounds like a great reason to buy it.
Good explanation, Thank you for your job! :)
Very good explanation!
On both the NC700 and the '97 BMW F650 I have owned there is a brace of sorts built in under the fender. www.bikebandit.com/oem-parts/2013-honda-nc700x/o/m155494#sch794012
It needs rust treatment after 5 years salty winter road riding and the threads are not particularly load bearing imao . Its a pain in the butt to line up to refit when its a rusty heapo crap ! By year 10...More fork oil changes would have kept me more aware of this piece of the bike. Also the spacers are easily lost .
Thanks now I understand 👍
I don't suppose you have any footage of your Oxford heated grip install? Great channel!
Ray - sorry, no Oxford install vid. Fitted them before I started making NC videos.
Wow ❤
Great explanation of how the brace works. For a bike that has heavy vibration at idle, do you think a brace would help ?
If it’s a modern bike then I don’t think it’s going to make much difference.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff thank you 🏆
Gave you something to do making that excellent fork and wheel model? Or did you have it already? I am constantly surprised by how good the NC750X handling is. I know the suspension components aren't as high quality as the Africa Twin, but I am fine with the handling especially with the Michelin Road 5's on the wheels.
Steve Bolton - yes I was surprised when I first rode it too. I didn’t expect it to handle very well given it’s very basic and budget suspension components.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff The weight being low on the NC really helps. New Euro5 engine predicted for next year... www.bennetts.co.uk/bikesocial/news-and-views/news/2020/april/all-new-engine-for-honda-nc750-replacement
To be honest Honda has already thought about mounting an anti-twist plate, it is located just below the mudguard.
Matteo Etzi - yes that’s pretty normal on all bikes. Not very substantial though.
Yeah, I remember that my old cb750fb had one of those. Didn't seem to do anything?
But, on the other hand. The whole frame was made of rubber. So, that little plate wouldn't really do anything. It was fun to ride tho, when I was 20-21. But not sure if I'd be brave enough to push one of those that hard anymore🤔😬
braikka - I wonder a CB750K7 then a CB750F2. Both nice bikes for their time but as you say, the handling left a lot to be desired.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Yep but the small twins were fantastic engines. Ride them for several hours and when really warmed up the performance improved. I started with the slow CD175, CB200 with a disk brake, CJ250T although that did misfire in heavy rain...
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff The existing stiffener isn't overly substantial top to bottom, but is steel bolted directly to the sliders (no friction grip) and in the horizontal direction would offer some very usefully stiffness. I reckon you'd notice if it wasn't there, and may explain the little to no difference noticeable with the additional unit.
Thank you Adrian!
I love you vids😀
Nice advice, thanks. Would you recommend a fork brace on Harley Dyna's build after 2000 ?
Grizzly HP2 - sorry. I don’t have any experience with Harleys. Search fork brace on CZcams as there are vids featuring harleys.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Thanks anyway mate, 👍
i dont know about the nc750x but the my cb500x under the front fender has a thick metal bracket acting in some how like a fork brace... maybe the nc750x has one too and thats why you didnt see much difference...
They both have soft metal brackets used to mount the mud guard. Neither would do much to improve stiffness.
bonjour ou avez vous trouvé cette piece je ne la trouve pas sur ebay? merci
Dove posso acquistare questo accessorio per nc750x
Grazie
Can somebody help me find a brace that'll work on a CSC TT250. The TT250 owners group on facebook nor the Chinariders site have been any help.
Hello sir. I have a 2019 NC750X and wanted to know if the bracket that is under the front fender serves any supporting purpose for the forks, or is it just there for the fender? I am waiting for a new bracket to arrive (old one got damaged in a recent accident), but wanted to know if I can ride the bike without it until then? My initial thought was that such a thin piece of metal probably doesn't make much difference on fork support, but I am not entirely sure.
Not required.
It was an essential addition back in the 80’s when forks were made out of cheese.
The brace reduces fork twist when under cornering load.
But the NC forks are pretty rigid without this aftermarket addition.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Hello sir. I wasn't asking about the aftermarket brace like the one that you put on top of the fender. I was asking about the one that is between the fender and tire that comes with the bike from factory. I have a new one on order, but I don't know if I can ride without it until then.
If it’s like mine the fender requires the inside bracket to enable the fender to be mounted.
@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Yes it is like your (just blue). I was able to temporarily mount the fender without the bracket by using nuts on the inside. My worry is whether that bracket is also required for fork reinforcement.