Fork Compression when Strapping it Down.
Loaded bike in back of truck tonight. Taking it on vacation while pulling camper. Wondering how much one should compress the forks on a HD Lowrider? Seemed to ride fine for the short distance I tested it.
|
I compress them a few inches but nothing crazy, no need to blow a fork seal. I also use 4 straps up front though, and 2 in back.
|
A couple of inches usually works. Use a rear strap just to keep the back end from walking around. When you strap the front down, give the bike a bounce and see if it's stable side to side; if not tighten the straps a bit more. Compress just enough, too much and you can blow seals.
|
When I used to transport my Vulcan 750 in my pickup. I just compressed the forks about 3-4 inches, and never had a problem.
Last year my bike wouldn't start, so I called the AMA road service. They sent a guy with a nice rig that pulled the bike up. Then he put some cups on the handlebar ends and started ratcheting . And ratcheting . And ratcheting. And I kept thinking WTF is he doing. But he had just been bragging about how they towed for Harley dealers, and I felt stupid calling him out. He tows me a half mile to go my Indy, and lets the bike down and my Handlebars are bent down about 6 inches. I complained to the AMA, and the tow company paid for the $135 repair. Next time I will speak my mind. |
Not at all. I strap my road king where the front fender bolts to the fork and strap rear tire from jumping from side to side.
|
Compress it enough the front end can't bounce but don't bottom it out, too loose and the bouncing will work the straps loose over time.
|
Make sure that the front wheel can't move side to side and, the straps won't come loose from the bars. A couple inches should be enough.
|
If you find yourself doing this a lot consider a wheel chock. It helps eliminate all doubt.
Esp from these guys--Condor |
I am going to be original here and say...a couple inches.
|
I've hauled bikes thousands upon thousands of miles tied down in the back of a pickup since 75. Cranked 'em down so they won't fall over and have never, repeat NEVER, blown a fork seal. To those that think tying a bike down with the forks compressed more than 2" will blow a seal, I guess bottoming out on a ride would blow the seals then, huh?
|
All times are GMT -5. The time now is 03:02 AM. |
© 2024 MH Sub I, LLC dba Internet Brands