Kawasaki Concours Forum

The C-14, aka Kawasaki Concours-14, the new one :) => Accessories and modifications - C14/GTR 1400 => Topic started by: KawaC14 on November 13, 2016, 10:28:55 AM

Title: Always test ride after installing accessories-Fender Extender
Post by: KawaC14 on November 13, 2016, 10:28:55 AM
I installed this popular fender extender on my 2012 C14 ABS. I'm not going to mention the brand name. Frankly I'm not 100% if its a design flaw, install error or just a fluke. As you can see in the pic the right side warped from the heat of the exhaust manifold. This was after a 20-30 minute run. The plastic was about 1/4" from contacting the side wall of my front tire. If I didn't catch this and it melted down to the tire sidewall at speed it could have been catastrophic. I was preparing for an IBA SS1000 run.
I installed EXACTLY as instructed. Measured with a tape and a dial caliper. So I don't know, errors happen.
The manufacturer immediately refunded the cost no questions asked. Test it before you ride off into the sunset with it!
Title: Re: Always test ride after installing accessories-Fender Extender
Post by: maxtog on November 13, 2016, 10:39:05 AM
Eeeeeeeeeew.  Thanks for sharing.  Maybe you SHOULD mention the brand?  Had you lowered the front end by any chance?
Title: Re: Always test ride after installing accessories-Fender Extender
Post by: KawaC14 on November 13, 2016, 12:05:48 PM
Very good point. That is something I did not consider. I did lower the bike by 1" with some Muzzys dog bones. That required adjusting the front forks to level things out. This was done by the dealer so I have no idea if this would lower the front fender height. There was plenty of clearance from the fender to the tire, but maybe that changed the clearance from the exhaust manifolds to the fender. :o If this is the case then perhaps a warning from the manufacturer should be recommended? It lowered the bottom clearance. But if every thing was adjusted, the only thing that should  have changed is the ground clearance? I dunno. Thanks.
Title: Re: Always test ride after installing accessories-Fender Extender
Post by: kzz1king on November 13, 2016, 12:23:43 PM
Without going out to look I think lowereing would put it closer to the header.
Wayne
Title: Re: Always test ride after installing accessories-Fender Extender
Post by: maxtog on November 13, 2016, 12:29:21 PM
Without going out to look I think lowereing would put it closer to the header.

It will, or at least it will certainly change the position relative to it.

I am not saying this is the cause of the problem, just something one might need to consider.  An inch doesn't seem like a lot, but if it were designed right at tolerance, that might be what pushes it over the edge.  Throw in a little variation in assembly and who knows...