I am new to using a sidecar and still figuring things out. We have a Motorvation Formula II on our 2000 Yamaha Venture. I understand that turning at slow speeds can be hard. What I am experiencing is easy left but hard right at slow speeds or when stopped. On curves the same thing. I needed a damper and have it as close to 90 degrees as possible. Would a vehicle type tire work better on the front? Any suggestions please.
Thanks
labill
What your experiencing is normal, it can be somewhat elevated by using the throttle, on to the right and off to the left, the only way to make it easier to turn is have the front end modified by kicking it out about 5 deg's, if the sidecar is taken off it makes the bike somewhat hard to handle at slow speeds. Having the front end kicked out isn't cheap but it's well worth it, allows you to relax and enjoy the ride a LOT more.
the damper will also tend to make the steering heavier.
most rigs DO NOT need dampers if it is set up corectly, and the head bearings are replaced and tightnened properly.
for starters, try tightening the head bearings, and remove the damper.
the damper should not be set 'as close to 90 degrees' also. you are pushing full force against the damper in that position.
set the damper [if you STILL need it]at an angle so it is only activated when the bike wheel is straight ahead on the highway. only 1" or so of travel on the damper is needed..not the whole thing, as it will be set at 90 degrees.you dont need it working on turns in the parking lot.
A damper (if used) that is attached to the fork sliders should be set at 90 degrees from the fork angle to eliminate "Bump steering" as the suspension moves up and down.
If attached to a non articulating part of the forks above the sliders the angle of the damper is not a steering problem except for the resistance factor.
Lonnie
Northwest Sidecars
It sounded to me that he set the damper 90 degrees from the SC.IE straight across to the SC frame....I may be wrong .
