Any differences between R60US and /5 front end?

[schrader7032]

Ian Falloon's book says that the early /5s had the same front end as the late '60s US models. However, the steering stem bearings were roller bearings as opposed to the ball bearings of the /2 era. Of course, it's quite easy to change the ball bearings to roller-type bearings on the /2 or US bikes. But it sounds like the sliders, brakes, etc., were the same.

One of the pictures in Ian's book shows a chrome brace on a /5 but it looks like a single hoop positioned directly in front of the forks...it connects to the fender near the forks as the brace loops over to each side. Not like the /2 chrome brace that has a forward loop that connects to the fender stay some 8-10 inches in front of the forks. The /5 only had a fender stay down low behind the axle...not like the forward facing one on the /2 that went from the axle area up to the forward part of the fender.

Kurt in S.A.

[5hal7]

I think the difference is the trees, so now I'm looking for US triple trees. H.

[VBMWMO]

I am thinking that my R60US may have a /5 front end on it, as the front fender brace seems to be a /5 style brace. Hmmm.... Is there any difference between the two front ends? Thanks for any help in shedding light on this mystery. H.