Hello All,
I have read a number of streams on this site that reference the "weak" 15mm axles on earlier Velorex sidecars.
While I undrstand that a 20mm axle is more substantial than a 15mm, can anyone decribe their real world example and circumstances where these axles actually failed?
Any and all input is greatly appreciated.
Larry
The 15mm axled Velorex's have been mounted to bikes as large as the GL1000's for years. I've replaced two for those who have run into a curb in the last 25 years. They were bent but not broken. The mounts, suspension, and the sidecar weight itself are the reason the early Velo's are only suited for up to middleweight bikes.
The suspension geometry was designed for 300# motorcycles up till the 20mm axled Cruisers and Tour models superceded them.
Most successful mountings of the early Velo's to larger bikes have been heavily modified. Suspension, mounts, frame mods and ballast have been incorporated.
The current models are still to lightly constructed to handle the big baggers and touring bikes safely.
Lonnie
Northwest Sidecars
Larry,
I have a 350 Jawa and may asure that the Tcheck Jawa materials are way stronger then the east German MZ materials. I get amazed frecuently about them.
In the Northgerman low lands I had to bend back frame, suspensions and front fist as often as once every 3 month. While here in Costa Rica in the toughest high mountain range I never had to straighten out any of the Jawa parts nor the 15mm axle. The Tcheck seem to have used first class forged material.
BUT I NEVER WOULD use this axle an a huge bike. Max size of a pulling horse for my Velorex 562 would be probably my former CB650.
Already my KLR650 is way out of range just because of its height and mismatch between suspensions.
Maintain the relations and You will become happy.
Use comon sence and keep harmony just as always in life.
Sven
I have and old 562 with a 15 mm axle on my Sportster 883C and have put over 7000 miles on it since July of 2011. I recently checked the bearings and axles and everything seems good . I also ran The Tail of the Dragon last fall and ride a good bit anyway. It seems to handle well with my bike and I dont plan to "upgrade" anytime soon.
Thanks for the responses, You pretty much confirm what I had expected. I have an 81 Velorex attached to a Yamaha XJ650. After a lot of adjustment and 3 fabricated attachment points, it drives and tracks very well. I am hoping to get a lot more miles out of this rig before I upgrade the bike and sidecar.
Thanks again for your insights.
Larry
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The early 562E models such as yours work well with the 650 XS and XJ Maxims. We have converted dozens of them in the past and sold them as turnkey rigs.
Not quite enough steam for the Superslab but able to hold their own both on and off road otherwise.
Lonnie
Northwest Sidecars
