HARLEY-DAVIDSON 43068-89A Brake Lower Front End Kit 87

( Brand: Harley-davidson ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 43068-89A ), ( Part Type: Brake ), ( Machine Type: Street Motorcycle ), ( Vintage Part: Yes ), ( Universal Fitment: No ), ( Placement On Vehicle: Front )

Review HARLEY DAVIDSON 87-accessory Brake Lower Front End Kit Read fits 1999

The **Harley-Davidson 43068-89A 87 Brake Lower Front End Kit** is a meticulously engineered aftermarket component designed to restore and enhance the performance, safety, and aesthetics of Harley-Davidson motorcycles from the late 1980s, particularly those equipped with the iconic "87" front suspension system. This kit serves as a comprehensive solution for riders seeking to replace worn or damaged lower front end components, ensuring a smoother ride, improved braking efficiency, and a more polished appearance. The kit includes a high-quality **lower front fork brace**, **brake master cylinder bracket**, and **brake caliper bracket**, all crafted from durable, heat-treated steel to withstand the rigors of daily riding and high-performance use. Engineered to fit seamlessly with Harley-Davidson s iconic styling cues, these components maintain the brand s signature rugged elegance while delivering superior functionality. Whether addressing rust, corrosion, or mechanical wear, this kit is ideal for restorers, customizers, and enthusiasts looking to preserve the integrity of their motorcycle s front end. With precise machining and attention to detail, the 43068-89A kit ensures a perfect fit, allowing for easy installation and long-lasting durability, making it an essential upgrade for any Harley-Davidson owner prioritizing both performance and heritage.

Buying the Harley-Davidson **43068-89A 87 Brake Lower Front End Kit** (part of the 87-style front brake assembly) can be a practical solution for restoring or upgrading an older Harley-Davidson motorcycle, particularly models from the late 1970s to the early 1990s. Below is a detailed breakdown of the pros and cons, followed by a conclusion and recommendation.

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### **Pros**

1. **Authentic Fit and Functionality**

The kit is designed specifically for Harley-Davidson models from the 1980s, ensuring a precise fit for the **87-style front brake system** (common on models like the FXR, FXRP, FXDF, and some Sportsters). This means no modifications are needed to install it, and it will integrate seamlessly with the existing brake calipers, rotors, and steering head components.

2. **Reliability and Durability**

Harley-Davidson parts, especially those from the original or high-quality aftermarket lines, are built to last. The lower front end kit includes critical components like the **steering head bearings, brake bracket, and mounting hardware**, which are essential for smooth steering and brake performance. Over time, these parts can wear out or corrode, leading to binding or poor handling replacing them prevents these issues.

3. **Improved Safety and Performance**

The front end kit includes updated or restored parts that can enhance braking efficiency and steering responsiveness. Worn or seized steering head bearings, for example, can cause "wandering" or difficulty turning, while a fresh brake bracket ensures proper alignment of the calipers and rotors. This directly improves safety, especially in high-speed or emergency braking situations.

4. **Prevents Further Damage**

If the original front end components are rusted, bent, or degraded, they can compromise the structural integrity of the bike. Replacing them with a new kit prevents secondary damage, such as warped brake rotors or misaligned steering, which can be costly to repair if ignored.

5. **Ease of Installation**

The kit is relatively straightforward to install, especially for someone with basic mechanical skills. Most of the work involves removing the old components, cleaning the mounting surfaces, and bolting in the new parts. Harley-Davidson provides detailed service manuals, and many mechanics or Harley forums offer step-by-step guides.

6. **Cost-Effective Upgrade**

Compared to rebuilding or replacing an entire front fork or steering assembly, this kit is a budget-friendly solution. It targets specific wear points without requiring a full overhaul. For example, replacing just the lower front end kit can cost a fraction of the price of a new fork or steering head.

7. **Compatibility with Modifications**

If you ve already modified other parts of your bike (e.g., upgraded forks, custom handlebars, or aftermarket brakes), this kit ensures that the front end remains structurally sound and properly aligned. It s a foundational upgrade that supports other modifications.

8. **Access to Original Parts**

Harley-Davidson still produces genuine parts for older models, which means you re getting components that match the original specifications. This is particularly important for maintaining the bike s value if you plan to sell it later or preserve its original character.

---

### **Cons**

1. **Limited Availability and Lead Times**

Harley-Davidson parts, especially for older models, can sometimes have long lead times due to low demand or production scheduling. You may need to order the kit in advance or rely on third-party sellers, which could increase costs or risk counterfeit parts.

2. **Potential for Counterfeit Parts**

While Harley-Davidson parts are generally reliable, the aftermarket (including eBay, Amazon, or unscrupulous sellers) can sometimes sell knockoff or low-quality replicas. Always verify the seller s reputation and check for authenticity markings (e.g., Harley-Davidson logos, part numbers, and packaging).

3. **Requires Basic Mechanical Knowledge**

While the installation is manageable for a DIYer, it does require familiarity with motorcycle maintenance. If you re not comfortable working on the bike s suspension or steering components, you may need to pay a mechanic, which adds to the cost. Common challenges include:

- Removing old grease and rust from mounting surfaces.

- Aligning the brake bracket and calipers correctly.

- Ensuring the steering head bearings are properly lubricated.

4. **May Not Solve Underlying Issues**

If the bike has other problems (e.g., worn fork seals, bent frame, or misaligned steering head), replacing just the lower front end kit won t fix those. You ll need to address the root cause of any handling or braking issues for a complete solution.

5. **Weight Considerations**

The kit includes metal components, which may add slight weight to the front end compared to lighter aftermarket alternatives (e.g., some custom brake brackets or steering heads). While the difference is minimal, it s worth noting if you re prioritizing weight reduction for performance.

6. **Compatibility with Non-87 Models**

This kit is **specific to the 87-style front brake system**. If your bike has a different front end design (e.g., 88-style or later models with updated brake mounts), you ll need a different part number. Double-check your bike s model and year to ensure compatibility.

7. **Potential for Overkill**

If your bike is already in excellent condition and you re not experiencing any front-end issues (e.g., no binding, leaks, or poor braking), replacing the kit may be unnecessary. It s a preventive measure, so weigh the cost against the potential benefits.

---

### **Conclusion**

The **Harley-Davidson 43068-89A 87 Brake Lower Front End Kit** is a **highly practical and reliable upgrade** for owners of late-1970s to early-1990s Harley-Davidson models with the 87-style front brake system. It addresses common wear points, improves safety, and prevents further damage making it a smart investment for both restoration projects and routine maintenance. The ease of installation and compatibility with other modifications further enhance its value.

However, the cons such as potential lead times, the need for basic mechanical skills, and the risk of counterfeit parts should be considered. If you re experiencing **steering binding, brake misalignment, or rust-related issues**, this kit is likely worth the cost. If your bike is already in good condition and you re not facing specific problems, the upgrade may not be urgent.

For most riders, the **pros outweigh the cons**, especially when balanced against the long-term reliability and safety benefits. It s a **cost-effective way to ensure your bike s front end remains functional and safe** without a full rebuild.

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### **Recommendation**

- Your bike has the **87-style front brake system** and you re experiencing or suspecting issues with the steering head, brake bracket, or lower front end.

- You re restoring an older Harley and want to replace worn or rusted components with genuine parts.

- You have **basic mechanical skills** or access to a mechanic to handle the installation.

- You ve verified the **seller s authenticity** to avoid counterfeit parts.

- Your bike is **already in perfect condition** with no front-end issues.

- You re unsure about the **specific model year** of your bike s front end (double-check with a service manual).

- You lack the **time or tools** to install it properly, and hiring a mechanic would make the upgrade cost-prohibitive.

For riders of compatible Harley-Davidson models, this kit is a **solid, no-frills upgrade** that enhances safety and reliability. It s a **smart preventive measure** for those who prioritize long-term bike health. If you re on the fence, consider the **cost of potential repairs** if you ignore front-end wear often, the kit s price is a fraction of fixing seized bearings or warped brake rotors later.

Details:

Very little rust if any at all, all hardware appears to be present, and lights seem working. There are some slight scratching as seen in the photos which is barely visible unless you a foot or two away from them. Chrome and lighted lower front end accessories. This is a hard to find set of parts all together, let alone separate.

All of the teal lighting is in working order as well slider covers. There are three small amber lights out on the kickstand side rotor that would face downward at road when installed. Jumper connectors for all of the lighted parts are present inside rotors. The H-D classic rotor and caliper cover kit P/N 43068-89A will fit 87-FLT, FLHT, FLHS, 98 FLTR model's except 94 FLHR.

It is possible that there may be something loose in section of three or holding up the current. To test the fork sliders they had to be grounded a separate ground from rotor lights. The Lighted fork slider covers P/N 45953-91B will fit 87-FLT, FLHT, FLHS, FLHR, and FLTR model's equipped with H-D classic rotor. There are ring grounds in both rotors, the hot wires all wired to a single that was cut.

The lighted outer ring as shown on the rotor features amber colors around outside of piece with blue and green inside to give a teal effect onto wheel P/N 46749-02 fits 87 later FLT, FLHT, FLHTC/U, FLHR model's equipped caliper/rotor kits. The chrome across all parts in the photos are very good condition for 25 year old.

part #: 4306889a prices

• $38.99-$109.15

specifications cyclevintagee:

• for makes: Harley
• for years: 1999
• brand: Harley-davidson
• mpn: 43068-89a
• part type: Brake
• machine type: Street Motorcycle
• vintage part: Yes
• universal fitment: No
• placement on vehicle: Front

offer cyclevintagee:

• quantity: 1
• started: March 31, 2026
• options: Ship-to-home
• availability: In Stock
• best offers: True
• sold: 0

shipping cyclevintagee:

• type: Calculated
• service: USPS Ground Advantage
• class: Standard
• cost: $9.81
• carrier: USPS
• transit: 6-9 Days

payments cyclevintagee:

• other
• credit card: Visa
• wallet: Apple-pay

general cyclevintagee:

• Parts Accessories > Motorcycle Scooter Parts Accessories > Other Motorcycle Scooter Parts Accessories
• condition: Used

returns cyclevintagee:

• policy: No Returns

seller cyclevintagee:

• rating: 100.0%
• city: Johnstown, Pennsylvania
• # reviews: 216

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