SO, I am active duty army and had to head from northern colorado out to Fort Knox Ky for the summer, and flying out not having wheels was NOT an option. So I built a trailer earlier this spring planning on pulling out to Ky with my softail. It is the bike in my signature, stock 96" with intake, V&H big radius and andrews 48's. It pulls that trailer like a champ! Granted it is only 350lbs or so loaded, but when you are getting around 65-70 mph the wind resistance is like pulling a plow. If I had not put in the 48's, it would have been a rough trip. Here is why- stock gearing SUCKS! At around 70mph in 6th gear, it is ok, but when you hit a long incline or a really stiff headwind, you have to grab 5th or you will lug the crap out of it. I am thinking a 30T drive sprocket will do the trick, not only on the top end, but taking off in first with a lot of weight requires LOTS of clutch.

All in all, it was a great trip out and the softy netted around 30mpg. Worst tank was 27, rainstorm + headwind running in 5th for about 100 miles, best was 33, calm, clear and flat. Like I said, without the 48's it would have been a very frustrating trip.

Now to the real question, a 107 with S&S 570's should pull real well down low right? A clutch is definately in order with that, as mine has slipped once or twice with only cams, but after adjusting the clutch it is fine. Maybe just a stronger spring? Dunno. Anyone running lots of weight with a similar build?

 

You can look here aim-tamachi.com

 

Variable clutch kit, ordered.......

Anyone running a heavy touring bike and/or pulling a trailer with a stout 107 or the like? Anything else to look out for?

 

I'm pulling a Bushtec Quantum ( not as heavy as your setup ) with my 2009 FLHTCU. No real changes in the scooter other than Mufflers, A/C and a tune. I'm a big guy ( 6'2" 250 ) and my better half is a bit better than half, and packed down ( scooter and the trailer ) I really don't have any trouble as far as power is concerned ... of course on long uphill grades I do use 5th gear. last year on the way home from Sturgis I ran all day long at better than 80 mph with all the gear and "Red" on the back. While I'll probably do some modifications ( I've got a spare set of heads, pistons and cams ) I'm in no hurry ... Have you considered Fuel Moto's 107 kit? Remember that with more power ( enough to need a HP clutch ) you might want to consider the drive belt ( the weaker link in high torque applications ) Just food for thought. Good Luck with the build.

 

I already ordered a variable clutch and spring, which I can do while I am here for the summer. I am guessing with the Andrews cams I am somewhere in the 80/90 range power wise, and towing right in the power band isn't really easy on the clutch since my trailer isn't exactly aerodynamic.....

I will probably go with Hillside or Vee-Twin for the 107 build. I know they will build a little more heat and lots more torque, just wondering if anyone has towed with a similar set up. And what problems if any have surfaced, or the should have done this vs that etc.....