Better handling for older bikes ???

[tjswigger]

I came across a product from Race Tech. called a "Cartridge Emulator" It's supposed to make your old dampening rod forks have a smoother action without the hydraulic lock up and insensitivity common to those type of forks.
My question is ...Has anyone used them?In what way did it change the suspension, and can you tell me if the are worth the $150 dollars?
Comments are appreciated !!!

 

[dirt bike dave]

I put them in a '90 KDX 200 and my buddy put them in his '89 KDX. Some of the best money I ever spent.

The stock KDX forks have soft springs but overly stiff high speed compression damping, so the forks 'lock' on sharp rocks and roots. But the soft springs can't handle big hits, whoops and jumps. Combined with stiffer springs, the emulators transformed the front end of my old KDX. Very plush on rocks and roots, but way better than stock on high speed trails.

The emulator sits under the fork spring. It is adjustable, but you have to remove the fork spring and fish it out of the fork to adjust. If your stock fork has a clicker adjustment, it will not longer work with the emulator.

To install the emulator, first you remove your damper rod and drill out the holes much larger, so they don't restrict oil. The emulator is an orifice with a spring loaded plate that fits over the top of the damping rod and under the spring. It really works, IMO.

 

[tjswigger]

Thanks for the reply.I'd like to improve the handling on my 83 YZ 490 especially on the landings from jumps.It seems like all the tracks nowadays have nothing but jumps,jumps,jumps.I'd like to have a new bike but not in the budget yet,besides I like the old easy to work on bikes.
Until I finally get a new bike I'd like to be able to practice at the many local tracks in my area without some of the suprises my old bike throws at me.I don't expect miracles just a little more control and more forgiving ride. Thanks for the feedback!

 

[redrocket190]

I have Race Tech Emulators in my 43mm Showa forks. They came from a 1983 Honda CR480R, but are fitted to a 1979 Honda CR250R. I have been real happy with the forks, much better than the stock 39mm.

 

[zoommx]

Look for vintage events in your area also. There's supposed to be a big one in Ohio coming up...July I think? Fewer Big jumps to handle. Emulators do help; I had them on a KDX.