This is a fork swap and front end conversion database where we have gathered as much information as possible as to which front ends work, and how hard they are to achieve. If you’re looking for info on how to do a fork swap on a Honda CX500, GL500, CX650, GL650 etc. have a read here. Also check out the fork length by model.

Keep in mind that a lot of research has to be done when considering a fork swap – from the bearings to the steering stem length, tank fouling, effect on rake/trail, fork length and more. Just because a combination is here on this page doesn’t mean that it is guaranteed to be possible with what you have available to you.

If you have more to add please email through photos and as much information as you like to:

jc AT motofaction DOT org

We are working on doing individual pages for the various common front ends:

And now here’s a list of the front ends we have seen used:

Custom

Marzocchi RAC 50mm forks with custom triple trees – Sacha Lakic’s CX500

17″ rims, spoked, one-off hubs

Ducati

Monster, unknown year – Gavin Clark’s CX500

GSXR750 single 6-pot caliper
GSXR clip-ons
USD forks
Honda NTV front wheel

Monster S2R 1000, unknown year – Moto Motivo

Used modified Ducati triple clamps
Ducati Sport Classic brake rotor/caliper

Honda

2007 or 2008 CBR600RR – Mike’s CX500RR

Used All Balls bearings
Black coloured
Different year quoted in different places, needs checking

CBR600RR, unknown year – Jesse’s CX500

CBR600RR wheel
Radial brakes
USD forks
Gold coloured

CBR600RR, unknown year – Noah Blum’s CX500

Spoked wheels
USD forks
Black coloured

CBR600RR, unknown year – Tristan’s Pepper White CX500

Shortened head tube
New bearings for stock CX500 wheel to fit
Spacers for ZXR fitted

CBR600RR, 2005 model – CX500F Concept

Using CBR600RR wheel

CBR954, unknown year – Birdie

Little info
GL500

CBR1000RR, unknown year – Taco Bender inspired CX500

Minimal info found so far

CBR1000RR, 2005 – Featured Build: “The Gentleman’s Cafe”

Rear disc used as well after custom fabrication
55″ wheelbase

CBR1000RR, 2007 – Brook’s Brat Build

CBR1000rr USD gold Showa forks (2007) (eBay)
All-Balls fork conversion bearings (99-3512-5 + 99-3511-5)
CBR1000rr Front fender (2007) (eBay)
CBR1000rr Front wheel (2005)
CBR1000rr Calipers (2007) (eBay) (5mm spacers required for 320mm disc – 51497-MEL-D20)
CBR1000rr 320mm discs (2007) (eBay)
CBR1000rr Master cylinder (2007) (eBay)
Aftermarket (STP) Clip-ons (CX controls wouldn’t fit on CBR clip-ons).
CX Standard tank moved back 1inch (Forks fouled tank otherwise)

Hyosung

GT600R – Taco Bender

USD shocks
Gold coloured
This particular build uses a CX rear wheel on the front…

GT650R, unknown year – Steve Foster’s CX500

Required sleeve for the lower bearing/stem
Clip-ons

Suzuki

2003 GSX-R 1000 – Graeme Dobbs’ Featured CX500 Build

Top bearing for conversion: All Balls 99-3541-5, 30 48.5 15
Lower bearing for conversion: All Balls 99-3512-5, 30 50 14.25
Graeme reports that the stem lengths are compatible
Dents had to be hammered into the corner of the fuel tank for a reasonable turning radius due to handlebar clearance issues

2007 GSX-R 1000RR – LINK

Uses 2004 CBR1000 triple trees, which mate to CX but have to be worked on to fit forks
Uses 1995 Ninja Z5 rotors – which match up to the stock wheel
Adapter plate required for brake calipers
Retained Comstar front wheel

Yamaha

2005 YZF-R1 front end – “All Business”

Mentions relocating gas tank for fork clearance
CBR954i bottom clamp
CBR929 top clamp
Trimmed steering stops

Unidentified

Unknown USD forks – Made In Vietnam

Uses stock wheel
On CX650

Honda CX500 (and CX650, and GL500 or GL650) Fork Swap Database