Fork Boots Redux

After installing the fork boots and getting the bike all put back together I realized that they had a bit too much slack.

After I installed the nacelle I had to push them down even more so they were looking pretty bunched up so I removed a total of 3 pleats from the bottom of each boot and punched new drain holes on the 2nd lowest pleat of each.

Here is how they look presently, I think I may cut out another pleat to give them a bit less slack.

Fork me? Fork YOU! Protection thats ribbed for your travel.

I like the retro look of fork gaiters and decided I would like to throw a set on my 02 Sportster 1200.  Harley has some that are off the nightster available but they are too short for standard length forks and somewhere around $60 a set from what I've seen online.  There are also sets on ebay ect. for around $40.  I decided to see if there was a cheaper option and found some recommendations on xlforum.net to use Rancho shock boots off a 4x4 truck.  I found these Rancho RS1952 Shock Boots on amazon and one of the reviews said they were used on a Harley 39mm fork.  Other reviews said they had split sides on the bottom that made them not work well as for boots.

I decided that for $6 each I would give them a shot.

I got the forks and eyeballed them and decided to give them a shot.  According to my service manual I would need to:
1. Remove the Caliper
2. Remove the Tire
3. Remove the Fender
4. Remove the Forks

I knew I would need some tools so I found I needed a T45 Torx or star bit so I decided to run to Harbor Freight and Grab a full Torx set, a full SAE allen key socket set and some ratchet straps to hold the bike on the lift.