Need Help with Foward Control Linkage

[Slimbob]

I'm trying to replace my Pegs with Forward controls on a standard 1977 XS650 D. I would love to keep the bike stock but I just get too many leg cramps. I love the stock look but need to be comfortable.

If I remove the original stock peg and bracket, can I cut off the Brake and Gear shift levers, rotate them and connect the all thread from the forward controls?

I have a set of TC Bros controls.

Has anyone done forward controls on a otherwise stock "Standard" XS650? If so could you post any details and pictures?

Nuts huh? That's me.

Thank you,

[jetmechmarty]

Fast From the Past sells a lot of linkage parts for their rearsets. Perhaps there is something there to do the trick for you.

My legs are very long and the XS650 is really too small for me. I haven't considered forward controls. I just imagine the handling being very awkward. Be sure to let us know how it works out.


You might have to put buckhorn bars on it too!

[Slimbob]

JMM,
Thanks for the input. It looks like the link you mention has some parts. Will keep you informed.

With your pullback bars, the forward controls may work well for you. Haver you ever riden a bike with forward controls?

You would be surprised. My 77 bars don't have the pull back like yours.

Thanks!

[jetmechmarty]

Forward controls might be fine if I lived in Kansas. There aren't too many straight roads in these parts. I'm not comfortable with forward lack of controls. My bike is pretty much as it was when I bought it from the dealer. I've had it since new. I switched out the wheels for cast ones.

The photo in the last post was taken while returning from a BRP (Blue Ridge Parkway) trip. I rode the distance on the 650. It's not likely to see much long distance duty going forward.

The below photo was taken last year at the Smoky Mountain Dogwood Rally. It was the only XS650 ridden at the event.

This bike is too short for forward controls to give me relief, unless I can fit them to the front axle.