Hey tzracer GSXR600 / SV650 front end?

[Gixxer124]

I'm installing a 2001 GSXR600 front end on my 2001 SV650. What do I use for an upper bearing? Do I have to use a diffrent race in the upper steering head?

[tzracer]

I have never done the swap. Without seeing I can't tell you what to do.

What did you use for the lower bearing?

Is the stering stem the same diameter as the SV stem? Could it be machined to be the same as the SV stem?

[Super_KC124]

I think the lower bearing is the same. I'm checking into that. The GSXR600 stem is a larger dia. I checked the part numbers of the bearings at the dealer and they're the same, but they can't be. I have the SV bearing and the hole in the middle is a smaller dia.  ??? I heard it was a straight swap except for a spacer on the top of the upper lock nut. The GSXR stem is longer.

[dylanfan53]

Kevin,
Have you searched the SVrider.com list? I think there may be a section on the swap there.  In any case, call:

Zoran Vujasinovic
Twin Works Factory
775-786-4881

He knows all right off the top of his head and has the bearing you need, which I think he stocks since it's a special order.  You won't find a part number for it.  

Wish I could help more, but I don't want to risk giving bad information since I haven't done the swap myself and there is a difference between pre'96, post'96, 600 vs. 750 etc. etc.

[Super_KC124]

Man. I thought you knew everything. Oh, wait. That's Dave. ;D

[Protein Filled]

Zoran has the bearings you need. You can also turn down the GSXR tripples and make it work, but then you need to make a sleeve to fit the upper tripple clamp. It would be easier for you to get everything from Zoran though. He is a real good guy. Dealt with him a bunch before.

[Super_KC124]

I have a lathe.  :)

[Super_KC124]

If the lower bearing is the same, I should be able to machine the upper part of the GSXR stem the same size as the SV's, then just make a bushing and possibly a spacer for the upper triple. Simple, no?

[Rich]

Call Greg he's done it.

[Super_KC124]

Call Greg he's done it.

True. He's the one who told me it was a pretty straight foward swap. He overestimated my abilities. ;D

[weggie_man]

Please keep the info coming. i know someone else that plans to make the swap.

[dylanfan53]

I looked into this a couple years ago.  I checked my notes and they click with my recollection which is that post '96 (GSXR, tl) will mount up with a swap of the upper bearing.  At that time, the bearing was available from Zoran at about $50.
Personally, I wouldn't turn anything if that's the only cost, but I know how tough it is not to play with a lathe if you have one.
I find myself welding misc. pieces of steel just for fun...Whatever turns you on and keeps you out of the bars at night!  :)