If you can move the swingarm side to side I be more conscious of the swing arm spherical bearings.. If the whole drive train and swingarm moves I'd be more conscious of the isolators.. To really get a feel for the isolators you need a dial indicator and pry bar as the preload can be relaxed but not enough to show movement by hand.

 

You misunderstand, I'm not saying the frame flexes up near the steering head, I'm saying the whole thing wags around those bearings in there. The steering head itself is a very nice and free moving vertical swivel or "flex" point.

As for the gyroscopic procession, it actually works against you when counter steering. Not that counter steering doesn't work, but it doesn't do so by gyroscopic procession. It works by steering the contact patch out from under you and the motorcycle, initiating the turn process. It is not the only way to start a turn, but it tends to be the quickest and easiest for initiating a turn at speed.

 

Got it...

 

I think its worthy to point out that unless going straight the wheels are not aligned so the stresses you mention are always there..

 

I TOTALLY AGREE. I was just trying keep it short and simple -- the KISS principle -- key point being that if you can manually move the swing arm laterally, you have a problem and it needs to be fixed.

 

Hmmn, I did not realise the conversation on this subject had moved over here now!

I was just wonder if you had any ideas about the ideal preload on the swing arm mounts.

I had just measured mine up and discover that once I torque it up, it actually pushed the frame tubes apart slightly. I am guessing the further they are pushed apart, the more vibration will be transferred.

What might the sweet spot be?

 

Dun Roamin -- am not sure what subject you're referring to. This thread is about the wobble, cause, effect, and fix. As for preload on the swing arm mounts, you got me there. I ride a 99 FLTR and even tho I have removed and reinstalled the swing arm and mounts, I am not aware of any preload other than torqueing the swing arm shaft to spec. Sorry, wish I could help.

 

I've added a couple 0.030 spacers and it didn't effect the vibs as far as I can tell.. It did help a bit with handling...Didn't increase the vibes like glidepro.

 

Probably the thread that's had the discussion going for a couple years on this subject: https://www.hdforums.com/forum/touri...e-exposed.html

 

Good stuff in here gentleman. Thanks