I've been looking for some step by step guidance on removing just the lower triple for painting. I did some searches here and online but havent found anything detailed on this procedure. I'm not going the PC route because I know that would involve detaching the steering stem and removing the bearings etc. But as for just removing the lower triple what's involved? The Haynes guide states that you need to remove the forks. Is that really necessary? It does look like even with the pinch bolts loosened it wouldnt fit when sliding it down the forks. I was really hoping it would be as easy as loosening the pinch bolts and the steering stem nut and sliding it down. Any insight would be much appreciated.
believe the Haynes..
Its basically the whole front end removed...
monsta is correct. I just did this to replace a broken lower triple and rebuild forks. First remove front wheel, axle, headlight, & calipers. Fork legs will drop out from below if you raise the front of bike 4-6".
The steering stem is pressed into the lower triple, they come off together by lowering them. A good time to check/ replace steering head bearings.