Hi all, I wonder how many of you wondered or even longed for footpegs just an inch or two further backward; it improves handling, especially on the twisties, and allows for better maneuvering in the city.
AND it allows for snappier "get up" when you see a pothole you just can't avoid.

I asked the local trusty mechanic (he really is, he actually fabricates and welds his own frames) but he looked at me and asked
"You mean forward controls?"
"No, I mean rearward controls, like on a street bike"
He gave me a wry look and didn't answer...

Still, any suggestions ?

I'm going to do it soon!  I think i'm going to fab a bracket just up and behind the swingarm pivot, still working out clearances.  I'm also building a higher flat-track type seat, trying to make the riding stance a little more aggressive all in all.  Looks like i'll be able to use most of the stock stuff, just need longer linkage for the shifter and to shorten the cable for the rear drum.

First, let's understand that what we are discussing is a "standard" control position and not rear-set controls. Correct?

I've been contemplating these for a long time, and have several pictures of Savages that have been converted. Unfortunatly, many that have been changed are far enough back to qualify as rear-set, and some of those have also been converted to right side shift (to simulate the Brit Cafe Racers of old). Still pretty cool, and proof that you can have the controls wherever you want them if you are willing to put the effort forth.

I don't think the described position of "up and behind the swingarm pivot" Is a viable location for mounting pegs and controls. That position is simply too high and short legged unless you wear pants with a inseam of less than 28."
Yet you can't go under the frame and around the exhaust, or you would have too little lean angle before dragging. So...

The best I've been able to come up with yet, is a place just an inch or two above the rear upward bend of the two main frame loops. This would be about midway between the bottom bend and the swingarm pivot. Looks pretty easy on the right (brake side) but belt gaurd removal / modification necessary on the left (shift) side. Still looks do-able. I agree that increased seat thickness would help some with getting the bike to 'fit'. But if you measure, there is still going to be very little leg room there. I'm afraid the real answer would be to move the frame backbone up. Which would lend itself toward a needed decrease in the frame's neck angle (and rake) to make the bike's handling suitable to the new upright riding position.

I don't know, maybe sufficient work arounds could be done without major frame surgury, but I'm not sure it would look, handle, or feel right.

Just some thoughts on the subject... John

I had "rear set" foot pegs on my 350LC back in 85/86. sorry no pics.

Clive W  

There's a brand new thread called "Mini floorboards" which is pretty much what I had in mind...

...now, waiting for some pics  8)

Anyone know what tank is on that - or any othe "cafe racer" type tank that fits (or can be persuaded to fit)?

Wow!! That LS650 Scrambler is a NICE piece of work!