steering stablizer - 1998 R1100 GS

Frederick

Same rig, same bike, same subframe, same chair, but I have never experienced any terrible wobble to a point it was for me a safety issue. I get the Leverite kit with the stabilizer but did not yet install it. Before taking the decision to put a steering damper (I’m afraid that the steering effort could be too much to handle), you are welcome to come over to test my rig and then we can compare our wobble’s feeling and settings. Sorry I cannot give you any specific recommendations, but maybe the opportunity to have a test ride on the same sidecar before I put the Leverite kit will help.
Didier (1 hour north from NY city, 684 exit 8)

i would like to take you up on that offer... if you call me (908)403-3647 maybe we can arrange something... i would love to compare the differnce in handling in a similar setup...

thanks for the offer..

I have a 2004 R1150GS Adv/ural rig. Never had anything like you describe. Sounds like there is something wrong. I am about 105lbs 5'7" and have no problem handling the rig both off road and and on road (I do have Jay's steering modification). I run TKC 80 tires front and rear (do not ask me how long that rear one lasts!). Hope you get it fixed.

Cheers,
Jill

Originally written by JillRide9 on 7/6/2006 2:03 PM
I run TKC 80 tires front and rear (do not ask me how long that rear one lasts!).

Cheers,
Jill

Is that becuase it last so long?

I am picking up a VStrom/Ural from Dauntless next week. I have assumed I mught get under a 1000 miles (pavement)on a TKC, based on my Retro, and what I have read.

Uralguy....

Sounds like you need to check your toe-in and lean out also. 1200hack and I both ride R1200C's, me with an escort and he with an Ural. We both have steering dampers, but more importantly, we both have finally gotten our alignment issues behind us, so to speak. I literally can ride hands free with the throttle locked for almost any amount of time I want as long as the pavement is flat and straight. One handed riding is a snap. But why did it take two hands to get your glasses?

Uber

Have you checked the seering head bearings? Or the swingarm bearings?

I've heard many hack riders refer to the wobble as a "Tank Slapper"
Once I let go of the bars to do something other than drive the rig. The handle bars shook so violently that I feared I would break my fingers trying to grab the bars again. I had to trap the bars with my forearms to regain control. Since then, I allways keep one hand on the bars. Even then it can get away from you if the bumps in the road throw you just right.

I have heard a number of negative comments re: the additional effort a steering damper requires.

I have dampers on a couple of my street bikes, doesn't seem like i can tell they are there under normal handlebar movement. I thought they were designed to only work under very abrupt or sudden movement?

Are hacks different?

My l500 drifter with Hannigan side car did the tankl slapping thing. It was a hand full.. Got a ;damper from Hannigan. Attached to side car mount then to front axel.. Can ride no hands and adjust didrection with the divice that raises the side car and causes the bike to lean. I am a much happper camper..

Vernon C Mauk

The lightweight dampers used on solos and RR bikes are not the heavy duty ones used on sidecar rigs. Most hack outfits are using the VW or Harley type dampers or bigger.

Lonnie

Vernon,glad that helped you out. DAVE