New to this forum, and I was trying to do some research on sidecars.. My wife hurt her back and doesn't feel comfortable on the back of a motorcycle. She and I would like to try sidecars, but don't want to invest big money on a new one yet. Any ideas on what brands would work on a 07 HD electra glide. I would like to be able to disconnect/connect in about 45 minutes (if possible), and somthing safe.. (what to stay away from)
thanks in advance... (I didn't see a newbe section)
YLHD, I'm also a noobie, and just bought my first SC. I bought the HD sidecar and 97 electaglide. Problems we're seeing is my wife (57 yo) has a hard time getting in and out. Also, she gets tired with no head support. I will be looking at the Velorex 565 later on after learning how to ride with the current unit.
Again, absolute noob here. No dealers close to me to rely on, hopefully you have some close to you. Don
Check out Perry's Sidecars in Fort Worth and also Texas Sidecars in Leonard, both not outrageously far away (especially by Texas standards!)
More info here:
http://www.sidecar.com/Maps/texas.htm
Some installers can do seats for you that raise and lower electronically to ease that transition.
The disconnect/connect thing is very appealing but not very practical in reality. Motorcycles and sidecars steer the opposite way from each other and you wouldn't want to forget which mode you are in! Besides, adding a sidecar often entails changing front end geometry to ease the burden of all that extra weight on the right side. This would create a very unstable situation without the car attached.
Consider buying a used rig to see if you like the idea. If you don't you can probably get your money out of the rig when you sell it.
Check out the Classified Ads here:
http://www.sidecar.com/megabbs/forum-view.asp?forumid=7
Consider taking a STEP class in Oregon or Washington state. They provide the rigs and you get a chance to try out the whole deal before you spend serious money. Yeah, I know those aren't near you, but consider it a fun weekend of research that may save you a lot of money and will also expose you to a lot of folks who can answer your questions in person.
Oregon training: http://www.adventuresidecar.com/
Washington Training: www.esc.org and then click on "Take a class" then "Motorcycle and Sidecar/Trike Programs" or this link *may* take you directly there: http://www.esc.org/Course%20Calendar-shell.htm
Thanks for the info, Steve! I hadn't realized there were two sales/service dealers within 70 miles of me.
Steve, I was looking at some used setups, and doing so would be a great idea. I would have a solo cruiser, and a dual set up.. Now, how do I convince the wife I need another bike?
It's the best of both worlds!
Tell her that if you really like the sidecar rig you will probably eventually sell the two wheeler. That way you get to keep two of them for a while. Eventually, you'll find the two wheeler isn't any fun any more and you'll want to sell it anyway.
I know that Hannigan offers a "Lift" seat (don't know if you could retrofit the seat to a used rig or if any other companies have them.) One of the funniest things I've ever seen in my life was my 65 year old mother trying to get out of my GTL (much easier to get of than my Legend). LOL I would suggest that the "bigger" the better. One with a tip up canopy, etc....will make things much easier!
Trick is usually to have someone turn in the sidecar and face the seat on their knees and then stand up and step out. This gives them something to put their hands on, does not require you to use your legs, back and hip flexors exclusivly to get up!
Just my 2 cents! GOOD LUCK! She'll love it! I can put her in touch with my wife if she has any questions!
