Forks interchangeability

[suzyj]

I'm working through my options for stiffening up the forks on my 695.  Obviously I can get either a matris or bitubo cartridge kit to go in my existing forks, which will give me varying levels of adjustment.  They're both a bit pricey though.  I can also potentially just get stiffer springs or space my existing springs.

Another option is forks from another bike, either another monster (with adjustable preload etc) or else superbike forks.  The question I have is how to determine if my existing kit will match them.  I don't want to go the superbike fork route at present, as the work required to machine/replace the top triple and shim the bottom one, and get clip-ons etc. is prohibitive, so I believe I'm limited to monster forks.

As far as I can see, the points that have to match are the triples, the calipers (I don't feel the need for a brake upgrade) and the axle.  I believe my triples are 54/50, my calipers are 65mm, and my axle is 25mm.  So if I buy some s2r1000 or similar forks with preload etc adjustment, as long as these measurements are right, then they'd be a bolt-on replacement...

Or am I missing something?  Perhaps spacing between axle mounts or caliper offset or some other measurement...

[ducpainter]

Most late model monster forks, and some from other models will fit.

None of them will necessarily have the right springs.

Of all the suspension parameters proper sag is the most important for street riding, so why buy something that isn't any better than what you have?

[NoisyDante]

I looked into suspension options for my 695 not too long ago, I'm now in the process of putting on S4 forks with new springs more appropriate for me weight.

Here's a thread you might find helpful:
http://ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=34835.0

[junior varsity]

sack up, grab some sbk forks from early 999s or 998/748s, shim the bottom triple, mill out the top triple - spring for your weight and go nuts.

[motoyoyo]

I did the S2R1000 fork swap on my 695 a few months ago.  I did not have to change the springs out.  The forks slide right into your stock 695 triples and the wheel, calipers and fender bolt right up.  The only modification you need to make is drilling your front axle thru on both ends to access the compression damping aduster screws.  

If you want the geometry to be the same then just put the new fork legs in at the same height as the old ones and set the rider sag the same, which is what I did.  I set the damping at the stock S2R1000 positions and went only 1-2 clicks from there to get them dialed in the way I liked them.  An amazing transition in handling for this bike.

I also added a used ST3 shock that adds compression damping and a remote resevoir.  Works much better than the stock shock too.  The spring rate is stiffer than stock but it works well on the lightest preload setting.  If you were in need of a softer spring rate you could swap the 695 spring on to the ST3 shock.