Forward Controls (M50)

[Pinhy]

Has anyone thought about forward controls on the M ? Im 6-1 with a 34" inseam and feel like i would like my controls to be out and down a little, especially on the longer rides.

im torn between just getting some highway pegs to have 2 different positions and just getting the controls. Controls would be best, but are $$$ (looking at CC at the Marauder they are like $500+!!). Pegs would be cheaper and allow 2 different leg positions, but still have the cramped short location for most daily driving in town where switching to pegs wouldnt be as safe.

so, any advice and info for the M ?

[intimid8er]

Doug...been kicking this around too. I don't want to make a $500 mistake either. Yeah they look cooler than stock, but am I really going to gain any comfort or extra leg room. I measured out four inches (that's what most of them advertise as a gain in room), and it didn't seem all that worth it. I can't remember but I think Rizoma makes controls with a 7" forward stretch that would definitely give some more room, but then it changes the dynamic of how you sit and operate the bike. Weight definitely shifts to another part of your rear at that point. I was tooling around behind Lake Thonotosassa through an orange grove and I wedged my boots in between the brake and gear levers, and let my calves rest on the pegs to see what it would be like (I know, I know.....real smart and safe). Initially, it felt comfortable, but the whole weight shift thing takes over, and forces you to ride in a position that may not be comfortable for a long haul.

I've found something for $150 that claims to extend your stock controls four inches. My dealer (Sarasota Suzuki) recommeded them. I'm still a little skeptical because of the comfort factor.

Made an @ss of myself Friday. I was heading over to Suntrust on Friday afternoon. I made the U-turn right there at 56th and Fletcher to head over that way, and I saw a dark colored M50 coming from the way I just came. I thought it might be you, so I start blowing the horn, and sticking my arm out of the window as I make the U. The rider looks over at me acknowledges, and then I realize it's a blue M50! Of course, the rider was thoroughly confused and baffled!

[Pinhy]

suntrust on 56 just south of fowler across from outback? or is that southtrust and suntrust is a little farther south? i always confuse those 2. anyway...im always around on 56th...next time make sure its black then wave...i'll wave back or maybe even follow and we can chat! haha

so...i think your test is not 100% accurate in that when you actually have your feet resting on the forward pegs it gives you a little "push backwards" on your legs/butt so you dont feel like you are going to slide forward. ive ridden on the highway with the back of my boots on the pegs and feet hanging past and i get that slide feeling. i think about 4 inches would be the most i would want to go.

i just got off the phone with parts down at Suzuki of Sarasota and he gave me the brand and part number (Lightning Performance Products LP-FC01). They were originally marketed for the Volusia when it didnt have the floorboard setup like the C50 has now. He claims the M50 has the same setup as the older Volusia, so this "should" work. It runs $122.95 in the "Streets Unlimited" catalogue he has there ($104.99 on the website below). Contains three brackets and extension for the shifter rod, 8 bolts and some spacers. You use your stock pegs and pedals, just in a diffeerent location, hence the price difference from other forward controls. Also they are black anodized aluminum rather than chromed pieces. website below:

Forward Controls

im thinking i may give these a try. they say its more like 2" which i am hoping is enough to actually make a difference.


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[Pinhy]

bumpity bumpity....


no one has any input on FC possibilities?!?! i see how it is...poor-ole-pinhy wants a little advice and everyone says "lets go back and drool on zuki dudes cool bling bling!


hahaha

[farmbone]

Sorry Pinhy! I am only 5'6" so I don't need forward controls. But if I did I would be happy to help with the research!!!!!!

[Zuki Dude]

Yeah, it's one mod I won't be doing either ... I'm very comfortable with the stock positioning.

[blitz]

I upgraded my controls with kury replacements (stilletto footpegs, shift cover, brake cover) and want to put the engine guards with footpegs on for the long trips. I kinda feel the position of the stock controls are pretty well forward.

[BikinIT]

Blitz,

Where'd you get the footpegs for the engine guard - diameter?

Thanks.

[Pinhy]

it cool....

i guess my dreams of a custom chopper have me wanting my legs stretched out farther than these, they are a little short for my taste (though they are not UNcomfortable as is evident by my 3900 miles in less than 4 months).

im also thinking about rolling my handlebars forward just a touch to make me stretch up and out more. i like that feel of having a bike that is big and tough. The M50 not really being all that big with great handling is a plus though!

if i wind up with these i will let you all know (actually if anyone in the Tampa area wants to help with install...?? )

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[blitz]

I haven't gotten the engine guards or hiway pegs yet. I saw that kury has a couple different sizes. Will probably call cruisercustomizing when I get the $$$ to order.

[Snowhownd]

I'm curious if anyone has put on forward controls yet? I'm trying to decide how comfortable an M50 would be for me... I'm not a fan of cramped legs!

[Pinhy]

i bought the ones from www.johnskits.com and have them sitting on my counter right now. will be lowering and installing FC in the very near future. will let you know.

this kit just moves the stock pegs and levers forward and thus is only 125$ rather than the 400$ some kits cost.




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[The Teach]

There was a post made by Mad a few weeks ago that looked promising for forward controls. I don't have enough time to find it right now but they looked quite simple. I'm having a custom place in Colorado Springs make me some while the bike is getting painted and custom seat made. I'll post pictures for you Pinhy when I can get out of NY and back home to the bike.

This guy is also going to be keeping a copy of the seat pan he's making for other orders.

We'll see how they turn out. <Crossing fingers while knocking on wood>

[Pinhy]

i believe that was johnskits if i am not mistaken. havent seen any other FC posts in here.

cant wait to see those custom ones though...should be cool

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[The Teach]

I hope so. He's making them per my request for functionality, not style. This was a huge set back with the pricing of his work because he believes in both and not just one or the other, but we'll see how they turn out.

TT