Have you had any issues with any linkage bolts. When used in higher rake applications the dampening affect may be reduced by side-loading stresses (pinch points) exerted on the tubes. I have a girder front end on a bike I'm building and I am concerned the linkage bolts/pins may snap.
![how to build a girder front end how to build a girder front end](http://www.chopperenterprises.com/images/girder.jpg)
The plate bolts to the 4.75' spaced bolts on the springer legs, and the second set of 3.5' spaced mounting. Tube forks provide good dampening qualities for most applications where rake (angle from vertical) does not exceed 35 degrees. Springer front end adapter plate allows you to run 3.5' spaced riserless handlebars or use non-springer risers with your springer front end. Inverted tube forks have been used on sport bikes for years. We have designed this front end with two 300 lb coil over dampened shocks to maximize performance. They are available in 2 length increments from -2 to + 12. All of the parts on this front end are CNC machined for a precise assembly. Girders are the largest of the three and provide the primary horizontal support to beams. Compared to joists, beams are larger and fewer. Joists are usually small but numerous and mostly supported by beams. Both configurations essentially work the same way. The new Spitfire Girder front end is made from the highest quality American DOM tubing. The main differences between joists, beams, and girders are size, design, and functionality. Conventional tube forks have the smaller tubes fixed to the triple trees, while inverted tube forks have the larger tubes mounted to the triple trees. Tube forks are available in conventionalĀ (traditional) and invertedĀ configurations. Hydraulic fluid levels must be checked periodically to insure proper operation. Traditionally the rigid portion of the tubes are joined to the frame, via the triple trees, while the wheel axle is fastened to the active (live) forks. Internal springs and hydraulic fluid serve to dampen the movements of the tube forks to smooth out the ride, just as on an automobile, providing the active suspension for the front wheel. The smaller tube slides in and out of the slightly large tube that is sealed around it. The sliders are the same for the 1' and the 25.8mm axles, but the bearings, spacers, and axles. In 2008, they went to a 25.8mm bearing, which is a fraction of an inch different. Starting in 2000, Harley went to 1' front axle bearings on touring bikes.
![how to build a girder front end how to build a girder front end](https://www.angelfire.com/tn/bikes/swap/harm3.jpg)
Tube forks incorporate an internal shock and spring in one sealed unit. Depending on what year and model bike, front wheel axle size will vary.