So for those who haven't been reading in the F3 section, I bought my bike for a PS3 and $300. I was super stoked even though it wasn't running right. My buddy and I pulled it apart to clean the carbs and got a little shock.











Do you guys think it would work/be safe for me to cut that kink out and weld up some new metal all the way back? As far as the tail section, would I be able to just cut the section from a parts bike and weld it up to mine and be alright? I don't know much about bikes at all and I'm pretty limited to my one friend who is a "I know everything about everything" kind of guy. So I'm just trying to get other's opinions on my options here.

Thanks in advance!!

 

Yes and yes. You're better off finding a straight complete subframe and welding it on if you can. That one is probably all tweaked, it's just particularly noticeable in certain spots.

 

Lol... Are there any differences in the F2/F3/F4 subframes? I've found a couple F4 part bikes in my general area on craigslist for a fair price.

 

I think they are all different. The F2 may be the same as the F3, but I think its slightly different. As for the F4, it is an aluminum bolt on subframe, so its nothing like the F3.

I would buy a good used one on ebay, there are always a few on there. Then, take the bike to a certified welder. Do not cut off the bent subframe though. The welder will need it on there as a refference to know where the new will locate. Most of the ones on ebay are cut off, and are a little shorter than they should be, so the welder will need to decide where to cut the one off of your bike. the welder may just sleave it and weld in the new subframe. But, I'd leave that up to someone who understands metal and stress.

Of course, depending on how adventurous you are, and will be utilizing the skills of a certified welder, you could possibly weld on mounts for the f4 subframe, and convert your tail section over to the f4 style. It would all depend on just how much fab work would be involved. But if it were me, and I was already going to cut off the subframe, I would probably go that route. But, I don't want to send you down a road that you are uncomfortable with. I just like modding things if I'm already there. Again, you would need to consult with a certified welder to get everything lined up and working like it should. I don't even know if its possible, you would have to have an f4 subframe to measure to see if it would even work.

But, if your just trying to get the bike on the road. Welding on another sub is probably the best way for you to go.

 

I'd look for and buy a complete new frame. Then there is no guessing. It's just a matter of un-bolting from one and bolting onto the other.

 

I'd either get a new frame or go ahead and change to a F4 sub.

 

I appreciate the suggestions guys... I've got to get my posts up so I can get into the classifieds and start posting in there without getting into trouble lol. I've been searching CL and think I might end up getting a complete f3 for 800 with no plastics. Then I could do what idodirt said and just take what I need off my current bike to make the new bike work.

I'm just bummed out that I can't save this bike. My Tire Kingdom income just won't allow me to get into a "certified" welder lol. Just my country friends who drink a 12 pack and shoot bottle rockets at eachother. And I really don't want to leave my safety or my wife's safety in THEIR hands...

I will make sure you guys keep updated on what happens either way! I may be able to talk the wife into letting me spend some extra cash

 

Thats not a bad way to go if you don't mind spending 800 on a parts bike. But as for cost. If you have the subframe, a welder really shouldn't charge more than 50 bucks to weld it on. 50 would be a high number in my opinion. Its 4 cuts, and 4 welds.. shouldnt be longer than half an hour or so. Most welders that advertise in the paper or online are certified. Granted, there are different levels of certification, but a simple thin wall tube weld is about as basic as you can get. The only reason I said look for a certified welder was to just stay away from the backyard guy who has an 80 amp welder in his shed. Find someone who knows what they are doing, preferably someone who does it for a living. They don't have to be certified in motorcyle frame welding.... I dont think there is one anyway.

I would have no issue with saftey concerns, as the sub is not part of the main frame. It does have to hold you and your rider, but the new sub welded on will be just as strong as the factory welds. The welds will be much stronger than the sub itself.

so, if you really want to save it, you could do so for 150 bucks or so.

Having said that, your own piece of mind is worth a lot. the last thing you want is to constantly worry when your riding the bike. It wouldn't bother me at all, as I have several structure certifications in welding, and have been welding for a long time, but for someone who isnt comfortable with it, it may be better in the long run for you to buy the bike for 800. Riding takes a lot of concentration, so adding worry to it will make your ride less enjoyable and potentially dangerous if you lack concentration.

either way, good luck.