I have a chance to pick up an older Vetter sidecar....looks to be mid to late 70's model...fair shape....I want to install it on a 2003 Suzuki 1500 Intruder...can some of you give me some pros cons on this car...parts avalable , things to be careful or to watch out on this car...I know nothing about side cars...and have never drove a bike with one on it..all help would be helpful...Thanks Steve
Those are called the Teraplane. They have a near religious following. Windshields are availabel for them still. Other parts . ..I dunno.
Dolid cars, though for as big as they are they don't really have a lot of room inside the car body. NO matter though, folks love them.
MOungint to the LC1500 shouldn' tbe that much of a problem. It'll probably need a subframe or other carrier to support the Teraplane. I've made the subframes to put the Teraplane on several bikes and can help a bit there.
There is a LOT more to mounting a sidecar than just the physical bolting though,. Lean out,toe in, wheel stagger are all issues that need to be dealt with.
If I get it I a sure I will need tons of advice and help from here...are there books I can get to help with setup etc etc...Thanks Steve
I believe Dauntless has mounts for the Terraplane's.
Pro's:
One of the nice features of the Vetter Design is the handy manual lean control that can be adjusted on the fly. Another is the rigid frame design with built in roll bar. Entry is an easy walk in from the front with the lid up. Solid 3 point mounting. Wedge style reduces wind drag and offers good weather protection for your monkey. Good match for a 1500cc Suzuki.
Con's:
Not a good choice for those passengers with claustrophobia. When the lid closes they're down inside with their head sticking out. Seat is not very comfortable for long trips (easily changed). Limited cockpit opening when closed makes it a less than ideal dog's car.
Lonnie
Northwest Sidecars
Below is a live link to what is the largest Vetter Terraplane specific area on the net. These guys love their Terraplanes and can provide input to about anything to do with them.
On the homepage it is written:
'Owners and others interested in one of America's most original sidecars gather here to exchange technical and social information about operation, maintenance, and restoration. We hope to gather details on mounting, finding parts and finding each other for social activities. Photos, ride reports and related Vetter accessories are welcome.'
Great group..check it out.
http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/Vetter_SC/
I just had a customer drop off his GL1000 and Teraplane to mate. Previous owner kept the handy lean out turnbuckle though. Darned shame.
Thanks guys for all the info I'll it out......Steve
If anybody is interested there's one on Ebay, the guy wants too much for it IMHO.
Ted
Lunatic, I have a adjuster I don't need . If you need it let me know
Originally written by Shadow1100T on 5/6/2007 6:29 PM
If anybody is interested there's one on Ebay, the guy wants too much for it IMHO.
Ted
Here is one on ebay ... dunno if it is the same one.
http://www.tiny.cc/Pj74k
OOOH, I do need it, Ron!! How much do you want for it? that sure woudl make my job easier.
Make me an offer I can't refuse, and you pay shiping
I have absolutely no guess as to its value. I normally work with Velorex's. The three Teraplanes I've done never needed any parts.
Email me at Motopsycho@wat.midco.net if you can pin down a price on it that would be wonderful.
they are prolly worth about $1000....
just kidding :o)
