Hannigan vs. DMC – BMW 1200GS
I’m thinking I want a sidecar and trying to do some research. I currently have a BMW R1200GS and love the power, torque, etc. and would like to hang a tub on it. I get a lot of conflicting information and would like some more input.
A lot of folks tell me that while it’s not required, I would be advised to make some modifications to suspension/steering/fork, etc. to make it easer to handle a sidecar. But, if after doing the modifications, If I were to take the sidecar off and try using my bike as a solo again, it would handle like a pig.
I’ve talked with the folks at Hannigan Sidecar and they tell me that their Dual Sport model is designed specifically for the GS, that no modifications are needed to my bike and that the rig will handle as good as any other rig where the bike was modified. Furthermore, the car can be removed in 15 min. time and then I can use my bike again as a sole. If this is all true, this sounds good because I would still like to go lean thru twisties now and then.
But on the other hand, DMC Sidecars (aka: Dauntless) also make a car designed for the GS but yet they recommend some mods to my bike.
So what the real scoop on Hannigan. Would my GS with a Hannigan car handle as well as other custom sidecar configurations?
Thoughts, opinions?
Anyone have some actual experience with a Hannigan on a GS?
Steering mods will make any motorcycle handle easier/better when a sidecar is added, but reducing the trail will cause a solo bike to oversteer and have a tendency to wander.
Lonnie
BeemerBob - 12/29/2010 4:29 PM
So what the real scoop on Hannigan ...[on a] GS.... Anyone have some actual experience with a Hannigan on a GS?
Bob, please send me a private message with your email and/or phone number and we'll try get you in touch with a a fellow or two or three in our general area with sidecars on their R1150GS/R1200GS's, both Hannigan and DMC
Lee
MB5+TW200+CRF250L+GTV300+INT650
XL883R w/Texas Ranger Sidecar
Zuma 50F + Burgman w/Texas Sidecar<Mrs. SwampFox
Bob, I have a K1200 LT with a Hannigan 2+2 with no modifications to the bike. It does have the electric camber adjustment which is a must have in my opinion. It used to handle like a pig around town yet was excellent on the road. Since I followed the installation instructions provided by Lonnie at Sidecars Northwest the handling around town is MUCH improved. It is VERY nice to have the option of removing the sidecar (a 10-15 minute job) and ride the bike on two wheels.
There are no adverse handling characteristics with the sidecar on or off.
Loren
hanniganlt - 12/30/2010 5:58 AM
Bob, I have a K1200 LT with a Hannigan 2+2 with no modifications to the bike. It does have the electric camber adjustment which is a must have in my opinion. It used to handle like a pig around town yet was excellent on the road. Since I followed the installation instructions provided by Lonnie at Sidecars Northwest the handling around town is MUCH improved. It is VERY nice to have the option of removing the sidecar (a 10-15 minute job) and ride the bike on two wheels.
There are no adverse handling characteristics with the sidecar on or off.
Loren
Thanks Loren. I was just wondering if you also have experience with a hack where the bike was modified as a base of compairison. Where you able to tell much diference?
I have a Hannigan on my 05' Goldwing with an 05' GTL and love it. The modifications are "minimal". There is a small hole one of the front side covers and part of the mount goes through the center stand of the motorcycle making it inoperable unless you removed the entire mounting bracket. Removing it does only take a few minutes and the engineering and fit and finish is excellent.....so here are the "BUTS":
I have 2 Hannigan sidecars and 1 Champion Sidecar. As far as modifications "it depends" is the best answer. I always recommend that you consider a dedicated rig that the sidecar will stay on. While you can take one on and off, it's not a one person job (typically) no matter what anyone says. The bike will have extra mounts and minor modifications that need to be made. On my Goldwing I have added a car tire on the rear and a rear tire to the front wheel (installed backwards) to improve the traction and tire wear. This all but makes it a "3 wheeled vehicle". Even if you don't the tires will "flat spot" if you ride with the sidecar ON more than OFF. Since the bike doesn't lean you ride the center of the tire. Another major modification that changes a 2 wheeler dramatically is a rake kit: I do not have any "rake" modifications (ez steer, etc...to change the trail of the front forks), but that is common on trikes and Sidecars to lighten the steering and makes 2 wheeling a problem.
When asked "how does it ride" by people I explain.....it doesn't....I DRIVE IT! Left is left and right is right on a sidecar....no counter steering. You have to learn (or unlearn) quite a bit to handle a 3 wheeled rig. You instincts on 2 wheels do not translate 100% to 3. I also STRONGLY recommend you find a sidecar class and take it should you decide to go with a sidecar. It's not rocket science, but there is no sense in trying to re-invent the wheel when you can be taught the basics in a weekend. I do not have any experience with DMC....but the other consideration is proximity to your location should anything go wrong with your rig. I've only had 2 or three small issues and they were all things that could be handled by me personally with both brands I own. I would say that Hannigan, hands down, would be my 1st choice as far as customer service and engineering over my Champion Legend. I just like them better.
Just my 2 cents......Feel free to contact me if you have any further questions.
Dundertaker
