AustinEire wrote on 12/02/17 at 22:24:09:
This bike fell into my hands, Gary, so my investment is real low.
It won't be. Custom builds eat money. My last two builds have each cost me over $5,000 after the cost of the bike. Savage to dual sport is a massive undertaking. How many builds have you done? How are your welding skills? I'm not saying don't do it, just know what you're getting into. You're starting with a wrecked bike. First you have to unwreck it.
I can't imagine the Savage 38mm forks being used on an off road bike weighing over 300 pounds. I'd find a complete USD fork with t-clamps and adapt that. That would also allow the ability to mount properly braced handlebars that can withstand the duty of off road riding. There aren't any bolt on options, you're gonna have to cut, weld and modify.
Since you're gonna have to weld the head pipe anyway for your frame repairs , I'd consider setting up your frame jig for a reduction in the rake to something closer to 25 degrees. Don't forget to take into consideration the effect of the rim selection on the rake. Oh, rear travel will be limited to about 4 inches, and that's after a chain conversion. It's about 2-1/2" with the belt. Belt drives and rocks don't get along well, I'd do a chain conversion.
Have you checked out the RYCA scrambler or tracker kits?