75 Honda CB550F: Are these forks worth keeping?

[elmalo68]

Hey everyone,

I'm starting my first project with plans on turning this CB550F into a cafe racer or a Brat style bike. I was helicopter crew chief in my Army days, so I have a decent background in turning wrenches, but my overall motorcycle knowledge is just above novice level.

I'm in the tear down process on the bike. Today, I removed the forks and found a lot of corrosion around the ends that were connected to the triple tree and that were hidden by the boots and fork covers. I've done some research and realize that you can remove the corrosion, but I'm left wondering how much is too much? The sliding surfaces of the forks look to be in good shape.

I have another set of forks that I'm planning on using with my build, but would like to salvage what I can of the original bike for future use or to sell, trade, or barter with.

So judging by the pictures, are these worth cleaning up and holding onto?

Thanks,
Dave

 

[xb33bsa]

they will be fine, remove the loose rust, kill it with some rust killer,spray some paint and call it a day
oh check them for straight as well
just hold the bottom slider and spin the inner tube to check for bent

 

[elmalo68]

Cool. Thanks for the advice.

 

[Bert Jan]

The part that slides into the lower fork needs to be clean. Rust will kill the seals. Looks good!
Now get into the choppppaaaaaa