Triple Trees
About Triple Trees
Triple trees, also called triple clamps, hold the fork tubes and pivot on the steering head, so they set the alignment and the steering feel of the front end. Riders shop here to replace a bent or damaged clamp after a crash, to fit a different style on a custom bike, or to change the steering geometry.
Match the clamp to the fork tube diameter first, such as the 41 and 49 mm sets in the listings, and then to the make, model and years. Cruiser sets are listed with details such as the finish and a rake figure, while off-road triple clamps are made for particular models, such as Yamaha YZ, Honda CRF and Kawasaki KX. Changing rake or offset alters steering feel, so small changes are noticeable. Small parts are also here, including stem nuts, stem caps, bushings and a front stand. Tighten the pinch bolts evenly and to the torque in the service manual, because overtightening can damage the tubes. While the forks are apart, inspect the steering stem bearings.
Brands listed here include ZETA, HardDrive, Drag Specialties, SLYFOX and PSR. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. Related front-end parts are in Fork Legs & Tubes, Complete Forks and Fork Springs, all in Fork Suspension & Parts.
FAQs on motorcycle triple trees
Is there a difference between a triple tree and a triple clamp?
They are the same part. Triple tree is the more common name on cruisers and street bikes, and triple clamp is more common for off-road and motocross machines. Both hold the fork tubes and attach to the steering stem.
What do rake and offset change on a triple tree?
They change where the fork sits relative to the steering axis, which alters trail and how the bike steers. Even small changes are noticeable. The stock setup is a good starting point, so change one thing at a time.
Does a triple tree have to match my fork tube size?
Yes. The clamp bores must match the tube diameter exactly, such as 41 mm or 49 mm, and the stem must fit your frame's steering head. Check the diameter and the model fit in the listing before ordering.
How tight should the triple tree pinch bolts be?
Use the torque value in your service manual and tighten the bolts evenly. Too little torque lets the tube slip, and too much can crush or damage the tube or the clamp. A torque wrench is the right tool for this job.
Do I need to replace steering bearings with a new triple tree?
Not always, but it is a good time to inspect them. If the bearings feel notchy, rough or loose, replace them while the front end is apart, and adjust them as the service manual describes.
