[tjet]

Hi dudes,

I'm about to buy a used stock swingarm and have a welder friend modify and extend it.

How much should I extend it?

For reference, below are some wheelbase lengths for various bikes (that I've owned, liked, or lusted over). I was also going to add weight & fork angle, but too much research needed.

• TW200: 52.2"
• XT225: 53.1"
• XT250: 53.5"
• XR250: 55.1"
• TTR230: 54.5"
• TTR125: 50.0"
• YZ250F: 58.1"
• YZ250FX: 58.3"
• YZ250X: 58.5"
• MT-3: 54.3"
• RD400C: 51.9
• GT380: 54.3
• FT400 Ascot?
• XJ550 Seca?
• TZ250?
• DT250: 55.9"
• IT250: 57.0"

Cheers,

Tracey

 

[Ski Pro 3]

The consensus is 2" extension. This really helps with hill climbing, keeps the front tire from lofting. Also plenty of clearance for the ATV tire mod. The extra lever effect from a longer swingarm makes the rear suspension a bit softer.

 

[SEADUB200]

2-3” extension is what most have done for trail-work. More than that & you’re looking at spring/shock replacement, or modifications.

Seems that doesn’t throw the overall geometry too far out of whack to adversely affect handling, except for the better, especially on steeper, loose hill climbs & also if you load on gear or ride 2-up.

Gives it a better balance. Some have reported better trail handling as well with the extensions, as it seems to give you more ability to slide/brake, or rear-steer the bike than the stock setup.

Search “swingarm” & you’ll find this is a pretty well covered topic.

 

[Workingman]

In my opinion 1 3/4 to 2 1/4 on off road is all that is needed on any bike ...