Wednesday, April 6, 2011

Easy and Economical Fixes Continued

2011 Linkage Arm Fix

The 2011 450s have an entirely new linkage system. While the new changes are supposed to correct the problems of the older models, they do not do enough. The rear end still feels a little high. The solution for the older models (09-10) was to buy an aftermarket linkage arm that was approximately 1-2 mm longer (Pro Circuit, Factory Connection, etc). Well if you haven't looked, those are pricy ($200 and up).

What most people don't know or realize is that the linkage arm from the 2009 Honda CRF 450 is actually 1mm longer than the stock linkage arm for the 2011. So an easy and cheaper fix is to replace your 2011 linkage arm with a stock 2009 linkage arm for a fraction of the cost. I'm sure there are hundreds of guys at the track that have older Hondas (09-10) with aftermarket linkage arms and their stock ones sitting at home on a shelf. Offer to buy one off of them for $20 and you have your fix.

1mm on the linkage arm should give you anywhere between 3-8mm of sag. This will help balance out the bike more and add stability.

Cost: However much your buddies will sell one to you

Time to replace: 10 minutes

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