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I just bought a 1998 flhtc with 55,600 miles on it. The bike was very well taken care of by the previous owner. Ive noticed riding it that it has a little bit of sway to it. My question is whether thats normal for older Harley frames/bikes, or should I have my mechanic take a look at it when I get the bike inspected. Im coming from a honda shadow and definitely still getting used to the weight of this bike. Im not feeling any shimmy or wobble. Just a little sway. Seems to take turns well and air suspension is at recommended pressure for single rider. Thought Id ask to see if someone who has more experience could give me their take on it. Thanks.
You might want to rebuild the swingarm by replacing the old parts either with original stuff or in sure there are probably newer urethane bushings available
What are you comparing it too? Everyone here always jumps to swing arm bushings and new rear shocks and fork rebuilds. By the time you are done, you are 2 grand into chasing a solution. I had the same problem, my 05 EG feels like a boat anchor................but my only point of reference is my 01 Sporty (super agile and nimble and 300 lbs lighter) and some older Japanese cruisers.
Ive just learned to accept the bikes limitations. They are meant for straight line cruising at 75 MPH. Just like a an old Cadillac, you will get there in style and comfort, but you wont get there as fast as other smaller, lighter or better designed vehicles.
This doesnt mean the bike cant be thrown thru hairpin turns....but guys who can do that are way better than I am.
That is a beauty for sure. I dont believe u have anything to worry about. As mentioned earlier about the bars, u also have the batwing attach to the front end, plowing into the wind or a cross wind. Looks like u bought the bike from a dealership, so the bike SHOULD have been gone over before selling. Enjoy the new ride.
If that was a trade from a dealership, I'd have to assume that their service department checked it out on a test drive, To be safe, since you don't have a reference point, have another tech drive it and see if what you're felling is 'normal'. I loved my '98 Ultra but I never expected it to be nimble either,
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