American Suspension 23° Rake Kit: Everything You Need To Know

Nov 15, 2025 by Alex Braham 62 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered how to give your bike that sick, stretched-out look without sacrificing ride quality? Well, let’s dive into the American Suspension 23° Rake Kit. This kit is a popular choice for customizing Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and in this article, we're going to break down everything you need to know about it. We’ll cover what it is, why you might want it, what’s included, how it’s installed, and some important considerations before you pull the trigger.

What is an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit?

Okay, so what exactly is a 23° rake kit from American Suspension? In simple terms, it's a modification kit designed to change the front-end geometry of your motorcycle, specifically by increasing the rake angle. The rake angle is the angle of your motorcycle's steering head relative to the vertical. By increasing this angle, you push the front wheel further out in front of the bike, creating that long, stretched-out custom look that's super popular, especially on baggers and cruisers. This modification isn't just for aesthetics, though. It also affects the bike's handling and stability, which we'll get into later.

American Suspension is a well-known brand in the motorcycle customization world, recognized for producing high-quality components. Their rake kits are designed with precision and engineered to maintain a safe and enjoyable riding experience. The 23° rake kit is one of their more popular offerings, striking a balance between the dramatic look and manageable handling. When considering a modification like this, it's crucial to choose a reputable brand like American Suspension to ensure that you're getting a product that's been thoroughly tested and engineered for your specific motorcycle model.

The appeal of a 23° rake kit lies in its ability to transform the motorcycle's appearance drastically. The extended front end gives the bike a more aggressive and custom profile, setting it apart from stock models. This visual upgrade is often the primary motivation for riders to invest in a rake kit. However, it’s important to remember that this modification also has significant implications for the bike’s handling characteristics. The increased rake angle can affect the motorcycle's turning radius, stability at high speeds, and overall maneuverability. Therefore, understanding these changes and how they will impact your riding style is essential before proceeding with the installation.

Moreover, the installation of an American Suspension 23° rake kit typically involves more than just bolting on new components. It often requires adjustments to the motorcycle's frame and front-end assembly, which may include cutting, welding, and other specialized procedures. For this reason, it is highly recommended that the installation be performed by experienced professionals who have the necessary skills and equipment to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. Improper installation can lead to serious handling issues and compromise the structural integrity of the motorcycle.

Why Choose a 23° Rake Kit?

So, why go with a 23° rake kit specifically? The main reason is the look! A 23-degree rake provides a noticeable change in the bike's appearance, giving it a more radical, custom aesthetic that really turns heads. For many riders, this is the perfect sweet spot – a significant visual upgrade without going overboard and making the bike too difficult to handle. It’s aggressive, stylish, and can dramatically change the entire vibe of your motorcycle.

Beyond the visual appeal, a 23° rake kit can also offer some functional benefits. The increased wheelbase, resulting from the extended front end, can improve stability, especially at higher speeds. This can make your ride feel more planted and secure, reducing the feeling of nervousness or instability that some motorcycles can exhibit at freeway speeds. However, it's essential to note that this added stability comes with a trade-off in terms of maneuverability. The longer wheelbase can make the bike less nimble in tight turns and low-speed situations.

Another reason to consider a 23° rake kit is the opportunity to upgrade other components of your motorcycle's front end. When installing a rake kit, you'll typically need to replace or modify other parts, such as the triple trees, fork tubes, and possibly the front fender. This provides a chance to install higher-quality aftermarket components that can further enhance your bike's performance and appearance. For example, you might choose to upgrade to adjustable fork cartridges for improved suspension damping or install a custom front fender that complements the new rake angle.

However, it's crucial to consider the potential drawbacks of installing a 23° rake kit. As mentioned earlier, the increased rake angle can negatively impact the motorcycle's handling characteristics. The bike may require more effort to steer, especially at low speeds, and the turning radius will be increased. This can make it more challenging to navigate tight spaces, such as parking lots or congested city streets. Additionally, the altered front-end geometry can affect the motorcycle's braking performance, potentially increasing stopping distances. Therefore, it's essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons before deciding to install a rake kit.

Before making a decision, it's highly recommended to consult with experienced motorcycle mechanics or custom builders who can provide expert advice based on your specific motorcycle model and riding style. They can help you assess the suitability of a 23° rake kit for your needs and recommend any necessary modifications or upgrades to ensure optimal performance and safety. Additionally, it's a good idea to test ride a motorcycle with a similar rake angle to get a feel for how it handles and determine if it's a good fit for you.

What's Included in the Kit?

Okay, so you're intrigued, right? Let's talk about what you actually get when you buy an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit. Typically, the kit includes:

Triple Trees: These are the main components that hold the front forks and allow the bike to steer. The kit will include new triple trees designed with the 23° rake angle built in. These are crucial for achieving the desired geometry and maintaining proper fork alignment.
Fork Extensions: To compensate for the extended front end, you'll likely need fork extensions. These lengthen the fork tubes, maintaining the proper suspension travel and ride height. The quality and construction of these extensions are critical for ensuring safe and reliable performance. Make sure they are made from high-strength materials and properly machined to prevent any issues.
Steering Neck Extension: This component extends the steering neck of the frame to accommodate the new rake angle. It's a critical part of the kit that ensures the front end is properly aligned and that the motorcycle handles correctly. The steering neck extension must be precisely manufactured and securely welded to the frame for optimal safety and stability.
Hardware: All the necessary bolts, nuts, and washers for installation. It's always a good idea to double-check that everything is included before you start the installation process. Using high-quality hardware is essential for ensuring that all components are securely fastened and that the front end remains stable and safe.
Instructions: A detailed instruction manual is a must-have. This will guide you through the installation process step-by-step. However, remember that professional installation is always recommended, especially if you're not experienced with motorcycle modifications.

Keep in mind that depending on your specific bike model, you might need to purchase additional items separately. This could include things like a longer brake line, extended wiring harnesses, or a new front fender that fits the altered front-end geometry. Always check with American Suspension or a qualified mechanic to ensure you have everything you need before starting the installation.

It's also essential to inspect all the components of the kit carefully before beginning the installation process. Check for any signs of damage or defects, such as cracks, dents, or missing parts. If you find any issues, contact American Suspension or the seller immediately to resolve them before proceeding. Installing damaged or defective components can compromise the safety and performance of your motorcycle.

Installation: What to Expect

Alright, so you've got your American Suspension 23° Rake Kit, and you're ready to get it installed. Here’s the deal: this isn't a simple bolt-on project. It involves disassembling the front end of your motorcycle, modifying the frame, and reassembling everything with the new components. Unless you're a seasoned mechanic with experience in motorcycle customization, professional installation is highly recommended. Seriously, guys, this is not the time to try and save a few bucks by doing it yourself.

The installation process typically involves the following steps:

Disassembly: The first step is to remove the front wheel, forks, and triple trees from your motorcycle. This will require disconnecting the brake lines, wiring harnesses, and any other components attached to the front end.
Frame Modification: This is where things get tricky. The frame's steering neck needs to be modified to accommodate the new rake angle. This often involves cutting and welding, which requires specialized tools and expertise. The frame must be properly reinforced to ensure structural integrity.
Triple Tree Installation: The new triple trees are installed onto the modified steering neck. Proper alignment is crucial at this stage to ensure that the front end is straight and that the motorcycle handles correctly.
Fork Installation: The fork tubes, with the added extensions, are installed into the new triple trees. The fork tubes must be properly aligned and secured to prevent any issues with suspension performance or handling.
Reassembly: The front wheel, brake lines, wiring harnesses, and other components are reconnected. All connections must be properly tightened and secured to prevent any leaks or malfunctions.

Even with professional installation, expect the process to take several hours, if not a full day. The complexity of the job depends on the specific motorcycle model and the skill of the installer. It's essential to choose a reputable mechanic or custom shop with experience in installing rake kits to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely.

After the installation is complete, it's crucial to have the motorcycle inspected by a qualified mechanic to ensure that everything is properly aligned and functioning correctly. This will help identify any potential issues and prevent them from causing problems down the road. Additionally, it's a good idea to take the motorcycle for a test ride to get a feel for how it handles with the new rake angle. Be aware that the handling characteristics will be different than before, so take it easy at first and gradually increase your speed and aggressiveness as you become more comfortable with the new setup.

Important Considerations

Before you commit to an American Suspension 23° Rake Kit, there are a few important things to keep in mind:

Handling Changes: As we've mentioned, the increased rake angle will affect your bike's handling. It will likely be less nimble in tight turns and require more effort to steer at low speeds. Be prepared to adjust your riding style accordingly. The change in handling characteristics can take some getting used to, so it's essential to practice and become comfortable with the new setup before attempting any aggressive maneuvers.
Compatibility: Make sure the kit is compatible with your specific motorcycle make and model. Not all kits fit all bikes, and using the wrong kit can lead to serious safety issues. Always double-check the manufacturer's specifications and consult with a qualified mechanic to ensure compatibility. Using a kit that is not designed for your motorcycle can result in improper fitment, compromised handling, and potential damage to your bike.
Cost: Rake kits can be expensive, and the cost of professional installation can add significantly to the overall price. Be sure to factor in all the costs before making a decision. The cost of the kit itself can vary depending on the brand, quality, and features. Additionally, the labor costs for installation can vary depending on the complexity of the job and the hourly rate of the mechanic or custom shop.
Legality: Check your local laws and regulations regarding motorcycle modifications. Some areas may have restrictions on rake angles or other modifications that could make your bike illegal to ride on public roads. It's essential to be aware of these regulations and ensure that your modifications comply with all applicable laws. Violating these regulations can result in fines, penalties, and even the impoundment of your motorcycle.

Final Thoughts

The American Suspension 23° Rake Kit can be a fantastic way to transform the look of your motorcycle and give it that custom, stretched-out aesthetic you've been dreaming of. However, it's crucial to understand the implications of this modification and to proceed with caution. Professional installation is highly recommended, and it's essential to consider the handling changes, compatibility, cost, and legality before making a decision. Do your research, talk to experienced riders and mechanics, and make sure you're making the right choice for your bike and your riding style. Ride safe, guys!