Touring frame flex question
Touring frame flex question
Would you folks know how to check a touring bike frame or frame number to find out if it has the flexing frame issue. Im considering buying an 2000 ultra classic and didn't want to run in to that issue.
Thank you!
Stew
Thank you!
Stew
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 44,896
Likes: 29,874
From: PNW
I don't think there is a correlation between serial numbers and flex. My understanding is it happens on some, not on others. The pre 09 bikes are apparently more susceptible, but the 09 and later (new frame) are not exempt. I think the best you can do is make sure the bike has been maintained and hopefully take it out for a ride to see if it squirms in sweepers. Obviously I wouldn't hammer on it. Just go easy and see if it feels twitchy.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2009
Posts: 44,896
Likes: 29,874
From: PNW
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 9,384
Likes: 1,776
From: Central Texas
If it is pre 09 the wobble can be fixed with a stablizer.
Trending Topics
Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 2,616
Likes: 10
From: Scotland
This mysteriously seems to affect the people who do not check their tire pressures or bother setting up the forks to suit their weight more than others, a good alternative to bothering with these basics is to stick a lump of metal on the frame and complain about vibes instead.
HD Forum Stories
The Best of Harley-Davidson for Lifelong Riders
7 Surprising Harley-Davidson Products that Are Not Motorcycles
Verdad Gallardo
8 Best Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
10 Worst Harley-Davidson Motorcycles Ever
Pouria Savadkouei
Killer Custom's Jail Break Is The Breakout That Refused to Blend In
Verdad Gallardo
Crazy Bunderbike Build Looks Amazing, But Is It Impossible to Ride?
Verdad Gallardo
Harley-Davidson Reveals Super Cool Cafe Racer Concept
Verdad Gallardo
Engraved Rebellion: Inside Bundnerbike's Glam Rock II
Verdad Gallardo
10 Motorcycles You Should Never Buy
Joe Kucinski
10 Things Harley-Davidson Needs to Fix in 2026
Verdad Gallardo
Supporter
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 4,419
Likes: 90
From: Vermont
This mysteriously seems to affect the people who do not check their tire pressures or bother setting up the forks to suit their weight more than others, a good alternative to bothering with these basics is to stick a lump of metal on the frame and complain about vibes instead.
Road Warrior
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,301
Likes: 7
I have the "old" frame and have not experienced this ever. The new frame was designed for the trikes. The rear section is bolted on. This allows for the same frame to be used for both, just bolt on the rear that is needed.
That 2000 is a sweet bike. Buy it without worrying about "flex".