Track Tested | Enzo Technica WP/KYB Conversion
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Price: $1595, ($1975 as tested with machined, anodized base valve caps and spring tubes)
In the era of air forks, the KTM and Husqvarna WP AER48 reigned supreme over the KYB and Showa options that came outfitted on Hondas, Suzukis, and Kawasakis. Now that all of the Japanese manufacturers have returned to conventional mechanical spring forks, though, the WP Xact48 air fork is now our least favorite due to its comparative lack of initial comfort and the hassles associated with checking and setting air pressures every ride.
enzo racing is known best for its work with Kayaba components, but it has developed a special Enzo Technica KYB Conversion kit for WP AER and Xact48 air forks. The kit converts WP front inner and outer tubes to accept KYB AOS internal damping system. KYB AOS cartridge, rebound rod, compression base valve with standard caps, bottoming cones, springs and standard spring perches fit into the standard WP inner and outer tubes with the installation of the specially machined conversion axle lugs. The damping and spring rate are set up for the individual customer’s requirements.
With the installation of the kit, the WP air fork is effectively converted into a Kayaba spring fork, similar to that which is found on the Yamaha line of YZ and YZ-F motocross bikes.
The machined axle lugs are necessary as they allow the KYB AOS internal dampening system (double-sided) to be used inside the OEM WP inner and outer fork tubes.
On the track, the Enzo Technica KYB/WP Conversion Kit is immediately noticeable and the front-end performance of our FC 350 has been improved dramatically. With more comfort and better front-wheel contact with the ground, the bike is more confidence-inspiring and easier to maintain control of. The bike is much more predictable when entering choppy corners, as the action of the fork allows the bike to track predictably and maintain excellent front-wheel traction. and Mid-stroke control is excellent and bottoming resistance is superb, and the conversion fork out-performs the standard fork in every way.
All told, we are completely thrilled with the suspension modifications made to our 2020 Husqvarna FC 350 test bike as the one weakness of the machine has been completely eliminated.
How much does the entire conversion kit cost? Thanks!!!