Wheel exchange

[Lord Popgun]

Don't let this question hijack the thread...but why did Honda reduce the axle size on the 14's?

Jim, In one of the design engineer discussions that Honda posted he said it was done as it would flex more and give a better ride.

Link to article: http://world.honda.com/CB1100/engineer-talk/

And the quote: Korogi:
Take, for example, the rear axle. By reducing its diameter, the axle-shaft rigidity is reduced. The aim is to create a cushy feel, and increase the sense of security. By tapering the collar in the edge of the axle-shaft, we created a 'delay' or 'buffer' in the movement.
I think this delay, 'gentle,' or 'dull,' is what gives depth to the CB1100's character, and its an aspect we had a lot of trouble in perfecting.

My question would be, how much does an axle flex?