K Model Frame

[59xlh]

Curious how to identify a light weight K model frame. Thanks in advance, Tom.

[Rubone]

Hollow footrest mounts, no sleeves on front downtubes are a couple of hints.

[59xlh]

I just have a frame. Has hollow footrest mounts. Left side mount was moved over to the right side. No brackets for oil tank or coil cover. Anything else? Thank you.

[chuckthebeatertruck]

Do you have a K model frame or do you have a KR/XLR frame?

There's two "light weight" frames. The street version and the -R racing version.

The street model K frames are not considerably different from other K frames except for the hollow rests and tubing. However, AFAIK all of these lighter frames for street bikes were made in 1952 and 1953 -- featuring the "old" steering head angle of 28 degrees. Starting in 1954, all K model and then the succeeding XL models used a 30 degree neck. So, a quick test for street frames is the neck angle.

KR/XLR is a different beast -- and they were also "light weight" -- there were many variations of the frame and I'm not well versed on them.

And, yes, that 2 degree rake change makes a really big difference in how the bikes handle. I run an early K frame with an XLH motor in it -- it handles much better than any other K or sporty I've ridden or owned. But, it is not the slow rolling turn in that you get with the later bikes -- it turns in the second you push on the bars or switch your foot position :-)

[59xlh]

There is no kickstand mount and no sign of it being removed. Frame is dated 3D. I put a magnetic protractor on the neck and appears to be 28 degrees.

[chuckthebeatertruck]

That’s sounding more and more like a possible race frame.

I'm not well versed enough to comment further.