I probably did this backwards, but purchased a used Motorvation Formula II LTD on Sat. Been thinking of getting a sidecar for ease of wife going along. I have been reading quite a few threads, and believe there is a wealth of info to be gleaned as needed. A question I have at this time, will I need to use ballast in the car? I am going to attach it to a 2000 Valkyrie Interstate. The previous owner had a GL1500, and had about 70lbs. ballast. But it kind of sounded like he had it there because "they" said he should. Just waiting for warmer weather, so I can get the bike out of shed, and begin preparations.
Thanks for any and all info. Paul
Specially at the start of your new live.... be aware to have a lot of balast in the back (never in the nose) of your sidecar. I'd even go with 100 pound or more, because you will not always have a passenger and might get a bad surprise.
Myself I went 3 times straight into the pasture on my very first day (13.12.86, 140km)
You have time, so read the books in the download section
And don't do it like a kid I met a few weeks ago. He owns a R60 Beemer rig for 4 years and put only 20miles (30km) on it...
Might because he didn't use any balast and didn't have anybody to ask for tips.
Here in this forum you are in good hands of very nice windfaces.
Best wishes from the warm South.
Sven
Greeting and welcome from newbie myself........looks like we have a lot to learn and a lot of fun in doing it........
Welcome Paul,
your lucky that you joined this forum because there are some fellows that know just what you have to do to get a good hook up for the sidecar, it isn't just a matter of connecting it, there's things that need to be done and they have to be done right and this is the place to get that knowledge, once it's attached you going to have a nice set up but you will most likely find out the the steering needs to be changed for ease of handling but that will come later, your going to want ballast otherwise the car will lift when turning right, not all the time but it will come up and it can be a little disturbing untill you get the hang of it. having a sidecar is a whole new way of life on the road that is relaxed and comfortable.
Jupp, without enough ballast You drive in 3 dimensions.
Someting I love, others get scared, specially elder women at crossing or hitchhikers.
Put the tape "Sing me the song of death" frome Ennio Ricones western "once upon the time in the west"
into the radio.
Here we go
Sven
