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K frame opinion

PostPosted: Tue Mar 17, 2020 1:36 pm
by drumbrake
I have a frame that came with a basket case. I have identified it as a K frame from the excellent frame technical information on this website.
Unfortunately the previous owner sent it in to get a hard tail put on it. The neck was smoothed by an owner before that.
I asked the guy if he got the rear of the frame returned to him, he did not.
I would like to think if someone sent a good K frame in for this modification that a reputable shop would suggest cutting up a newer more common long frame.
Although maybe all of the smoothing had already reduced any historic value. I will never use it.
I am wondering if I should worry about preserving what is left or is it too far gone?

Re: K frame opinion

PostPosted: Tue Mar 17, 2020 1:53 pm
by EKHKHK56
Well it looks pretty well cooked. This style has become popular with some people. I don't think it would be worth trying to go back to stock. If you are selling I think a paint job and sell as is probably best. Is it even true? I did a hardtail conversion once and the weldon tail had different length legs and was twisted new. Someone tossed it in the "Ship to Alaska" bin. I have gotton lied to and cheated on half the K parts I bought in 80s and 90s from individuals, mostly, and dealers in trader magazines. Back then a fuzzy polaroid was only image and there was no K information logically available . Kirk, Sporty Specialties Calif, always sold me exactly what he described and was a big help. He is still helping K & XL enthusiasts with parts and info. Bills Custom Cycle is another great family source. NY. Erik

Re: K frame opinion

PostPosted: Tue Mar 17, 2020 9:18 pm
by drumbrake
It looks straight to me.
He sent the frame directly to the place that made the tail.
I believe it was LedSled customs.
I would like to think they would have used some kind of jig.

Re: K frame opinion

PostPosted: Wed Mar 18, 2020 7:29 am
by EKHKHK56
Thats a good company and also makes it valuable for a custom build. In Japan I see more Ks done hardtail than stock...If you don't have plans for it I would paint it and market it...or build a dirt tracker K etc.

Re: K frame opinion

PostPosted: Sun Mar 22, 2020 12:47 am
by drumbrake
Thanks for the replies, I thought it was probably too far gone, but it was worth getting a second opinion.
I hate to see original parts butchered.
I will probably sell it, or trade for a complete short frame.
My hope would be to get it to somebody thinking about cutting up another original frame.