I don't understand the physics of rake, trail or none of that handling stuff either. I always figured the Mfg. (any Mfg. or bike) spend millions designing a given bike, they have the best minds and computers money can buy. I would suggest you really understand what's going to happen to the handling & ride, if you make these changes. If you don't like it, you're pretty well stuck with it. The other thing to think about is trade or sale value, if you're not happy with the changes. As a buyer, If I though it had been altered from OEM specs, I'd walk. As a seller, if you didn't disclose the changes, you could end up in court. === I've owned dozens of bikes, considering this bike is over 800# w/ 1800cc's of power, it's the best riding & handling bike I've ever owned. To me, it's like riding a big sport bike. Dat's my 2 cents worth.