Hi everyone -
Just posting to get opinions about one of the upgrades sometimes made for CB160 race bikes; namely, changing to CB200 forks. Would like to hear thoughts on whether there is a distinct difference in these forks (springs or other components) that warrant such an upgrade. Thanks!
Scott
Honda CB160 forks vs. CB200 forks
Scott, if you are still around and need an answer, Cb200 forks are better in two major ways.
First the top bolt is like modern forks and that makes for a stiffer clamping arrangement plus the fork height can be adjusted. Cb160/175 forks are similar design to CB72/77 which are not height adjustable. That's fine on the street but sometimes on a race bike it is advantageous to be able to adjust front ride height. The damper design is also much better. CB200 has a damper rod with piston ring and they can be converted to gold valve emulators for superior damping. CB160/175 and CB 72/77 use a shuttle valve type design which is less adjustable. So for a race bike, a set of CB200 forks is IMHO a useful upgrade. That said, is the suspension holding you back? For most of us, skill is more lacking than suspension. We have raced for decades with more or less stock CB160/175 and Cb72/77 suspension and it has never been a limiting factor. But if you have the choices and the budget, I'd go with 200 forks- assuming the rules allow them
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