Hi all. New to sidecars; not new to motorcycles. We have a '98 Suzuki Marauder (the Maraudi Gras). We just moved from the southwest coast of Florida to just north of Atlanta.
We have a son who will be 3 this summer. We hesitated getting a sidecar earlier, but now that we are settled in our new home, we feel that this would be a good time.
We have been digging on the 'net for sidecars that would be the best fit for the Marauder. Seems that Texas Sidecars has some that will work. However, I definitely want to hear from others who may possibly have this particular bike. It's not common; I know. But still, I figured this forum was a good place to ask.
Thanks so much for the help. I have enjoyed reading the posts and seeing that so many others are into sidecars so they can take the whole family out.
Dani
Dani,
If you plan on having all three of you on one bike, the safest way to do this is with both passengers in the sidecar. Since your son is only 3 he would not be a good candidate for the motorcycle passenger. The heaviest passenger needs to be in the sidecar to balance out the weight ratio between bike and sidecar.
Youe safest option for a sidecar would be a "doublewide" sidecar. There are some called double wide that are about 10" wider than a single without being extremely large, wide and cumbersome.
Motorvation's Formula cars and Kenna's double are two that come to mind.
If you plan on just having the boy as the passenger your choice is open to most other cars.
The main parameters then are having adequate protection for the boy from the elements, an approved child's seat should be installed, attached securely to the frame of the car to keep him inside in case of sudden changes that might cause injury. Head and body protection also need to be addressed as you will have very precious cargo aboard.
Lonnie
Northwest Sidecars
