aftermarket steering damper

I bought this Chinese damper, US seller

http://www.ebay.com/itm/112095855713?_trksid=p2057872.m2749.l2649&ssPageName=STRK:MEBIDX:IT

then I came here to search for possible pictures of other installs. then I came to realize that there was a stock option that was supposed to come with the tour package. then I did some more ebaying around and found some used stock ones.

but I had already bought this and its adjustable, about 24 clicks worth, but was worried about total stoke of the ram. the one I bought is 71mm.

anyway I already bought this, it showed up yesterday and I made some brackets. I first made a traditional fork tube clamp, but the short stroke prevented that from working. I suspect the stock one is about 100mm or so of travel based on what I learned from this.

this meant I had to get creative in my fork mount, the frame side has several options and I wasn't worried about that.

I didn't want to make any new holes and I wanted it to be as stealth as possible. I shared the mount point in the front with some clever bending. this worked well until I cranked up the damper and that flexed a bit. So it needed a bit more bracing. I put in a stud on the opposite lower fork clamp from the inside. then made another bit, again with clever bending and a custom ground small nut.

with both pieces it is rock sold. the frame side just worked as expected, I haven't seen a need there for added bracing. I also like how easy it is to adjust on the fly, if necessary. with the front Yamaha cover installed you cant see the bracketry. I am pretty pleased with the install, I suppose I could have been more ambitions and welded something more factory. but I wanted simple and no new holes or welds.

as for performance I am super happy with it. very confidence inspiring. while not recommended I took it over 100 with the luggage and it was lovely. previously about 80 things got sketchy (though the luggage specifically says don't go over 80) but I am calling this a success and well worth $34.