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If you ride a Suzuki DR650, you are keenly aware that the front forks don't represent the latest technology. Once it is correctly sprung and dampened (with emulators), the fork performs significantly better but is still a non-upside-down fork design from the '80s.

 

It isn't as rigid as one would like when you ride that pig hard and fast. The DR can perform surprisingly well, but you need all the help you can get to control this bushpig.

 

What does a fork brace do?

The fork brace links the lower forks together (think of the crown on a mountain bike), increasing the whole assembly's rigidity.

 

In terms of riding, this is what we felt:

  • Increased steering and tracking capabilities (especially with larger tanks)
  • Confidence-inspiring front tire placement on and off-road.
  • Easier directional changes.
  • Overall high-speed riding stability.
  • Reduced speed wobbles.
  • Braking interference is removed when leaning at an angle (preventing fork twisting).

 

The Story

We tried a few different options on the market, and most designs are too tall and will interfere with your fender. It hits violently with a terrible sound before your suspension's trip ends. For us, that's a big no, no, as we want to keep as much of our precious front suspension travel.

 

While there is a slim version available, there's no dealer available for us in Canada, and we've identified areas for improvement, so we decided to make our own!

 

The build

The design uses a slim but rigid shape. Thanks to the slim design, it allows for a strong bridge between the two fork legs but hinders a minimum with fork travel. We kept about 1.5" of clearance with a knobby tire, so mud packing isn't an issue. 

 

Because keeping fork boots is essential for the life of your fork seals, our fork brace has a built-in lip and groove so you can fasten the stock boots or zip-tie new neoprene sleeves easily.

 

We recommend the latter as they do a much better job keeping the dust at bay: Acerbis Neoprene Fork Boots in either Stiched or Velcro variant.

 

Note: We rarely have the brace hitting the fender anymore, but if you bottom out your fork often, you should first set your suspension right, and you could also cut out the fender sides a little to achieve 100% clearance.

Bushpig Performance Fork Brace - DR650

SKU: BP-DR650-ForkBrace
C$229.95Price
    • Low/Slim design to conserve max. fork travel
    • CNC'ed from a block of 6061-T6 aircraft aluminum
    • Integrated fork boot retainer lips
    • Hard anodized black finish
    • Laser etched logo on the top
    • Ten-minute easy installation.

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