front end shimmy
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Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2017
Posts: 9,605
Likes: 20,752
From: Globe AZ
front end shimmy
I have a bit of a front end shimmy at speeds over 70mph. Not a death wobble per se, but its enough to be disconcerting to me. The wobble was there without a windshield, but is a bit more pronounced with the one I just installed
Windshield is a fork mount, with the mounts centered between the trees, and adjusted full up for wind abatement (if its much lower, the air coming off the windscreen hits me full in the face)
Forks recently serviced with 10w fork oil and new seals, bushings were good
Tire is a 90-90/19 Dungflop HD tire with about 75% life remaining, but no signs of cupping, pressure at 30psi (on bike when purchased)
Headstock bearings are good, and freshly serviced. Adjusted to spec.
Rider is 6'5" and 350#, bike is a 95 XLH1200, mostly stock
My question is what can I do to limit the shimmy? The front end is tight, but the tire is one size undersized. There are balance weights on it, so I assume the balance is relatively close. What I feel is a slight side to side motion in the bars not an out of balance hopping. almost like its hunting for the proper line.
I realize that the windshield is making the problem worse due to the aerodynamic loading added to the forks, but would like to limit this as much as possible. anyone have any ideas for me short of a bigger bike?
Windshield is a fork mount, with the mounts centered between the trees, and adjusted full up for wind abatement (if its much lower, the air coming off the windscreen hits me full in the face)
Forks recently serviced with 10w fork oil and new seals, bushings were good
Tire is a 90-90/19 Dungflop HD tire with about 75% life remaining, but no signs of cupping, pressure at 30psi (on bike when purchased)
Headstock bearings are good, and freshly serviced. Adjusted to spec.
Rider is 6'5" and 350#, bike is a 95 XLH1200, mostly stock
My question is what can I do to limit the shimmy? The front end is tight, but the tire is one size undersized. There are balance weights on it, so I assume the balance is relatively close. What I feel is a slight side to side motion in the bars not an out of balance hopping. almost like its hunting for the proper line.
I realize that the windshield is making the problem worse due to the aerodynamic loading added to the forks, but would like to limit this as much as possible. anyone have any ideas for me short of a bigger bike?
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
Likes: 2,898
From: Bedford UK
What can you do? Start by checking the website for your brand of tyres, for the correct pressures, as that 30psi sounds too low for me. In addition I suggest you add an extra couple of psi to both tyres, to help offset your weight.
On such an old bike other things to consider is the condition of your steering bearings, and if they are adjusted correctly. Some handling problems actually start at the rear, so also check your swingarm bearings and wheel bearings on both wheels. If your wheels have wire spokes check them for tightness and that they both run true.
On such an old bike other things to consider is the condition of your steering bearings, and if they are adjusted correctly. Some handling problems actually start at the rear, so also check your swingarm bearings and wheel bearings on both wheels. If your wheels have wire spokes check them for tightness and that they both run true.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2014
Posts: 4,890
Likes: 553
From: USA
Shimmy on cars at higher speeds are normally caused by tire balance issues...so inflate to proper pressure (30psi seems rather low) and balance your tires. Address the most common causes first.
Club Member
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 15,435
Likes: 7,127
From: Beyond Fucital
Then it's not loose spokes, so air pressure and balance. Do you have wheel weights? Might have thrown one, try Dynabeads or Ride-On.
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Club Member
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 16,320
Likes: 306
From: Boynton Beach, FloriDuh
There's nothing wrong with the pressure.
The OP has an OEM Dunlop tire and the HD recommended psi spec in the Owners Manual is 30 PSI.
The OP has an OEM Dunlop tire and the HD recommended psi spec in the Owners Manual is 30 PSI.
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From: Beyond Fucital
Last edited by RANGER73; May 21, 2017 at 08:24 PM.
