front tire alignment

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Sep 17, 2008 | 10:49 PM

#11

BadPiggy

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Jul 2007

Posts: 3,410

Likes: 8

From: Knoxville, TN

Quote:

Originally Posted by Neckball

So what does this have to do with the front tire?

Actually, nothing.
The front is pretty much locked in place by the fork neck.
The tool aligns the geometry of the engine/transmission/swingarm.
Since the swingarm brackets are welded to the frame, the fork neck also being welded to the frame...once you align the engine/transmission/swingarm...the front kinda falls into place.

Now, if this guy has a bent fork...no tool will help him.
He'll need a new fork.

Sep 17, 2008 | 11:14 PM

#12

hoytheld

Cruiser

Joined: Sep 2007

Posts: 141

Likes: 0

From:

go to these and be worry free...I just put them in my new tire...no vibration. Read up on the way they work. Plus...if you can or have a buddy who knows how to change a tire...no more trying to find a place to do the balancing. I got two 2oz bags (will do front and rear tires) and applicator for $14 out the door here locally in Hilliard, OH
www.innovativebalancing.com

Sep 18, 2008 | 06:33 AM

#13

twin88cam

Advanced

Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 96

Likes: 2

From: SE Georgia near Savannah

If the tire is wobbling at low speed (handle bars moving from side to side) check the steering head bearing tightness. Had this problem before, cured mine.

Good luck

Sep 18, 2008 | 06:58 AM

#14

Jinks

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Jul 2007

Posts: 2,241

Likes: 7

From: Daytona, Fla.

Quote:

Originally Posted by harley-jones

I have not done this, but I have read about using fluorescent light bulbs and rubber bands to check alignment. Don't laugh, read on!

You place a fluorescent tube on each side of the rear tire and use the rubber bands in front and behind the rear tire to hold the bulbs straight with the rear tire. The bulbs run up to the front tire on each side and you can see if something is out of align.

I know there are hi-tech ways of doing this(lasers), but this will get you in the ball park.

The fluorescent tubes are used because they're consistently straight. If you have access to a wheel clamp fasten the front wheel in the clamp. Use a level (on the brake disc) to get it perfectly vertical. Once the front wheel is clamped vertical you can use the level (again, on the brake disc) to align the rear wheel in the vertical by adjusting the upper heim link, & the drive train in the horizontal with the straight edges & the front heim link. Not difficult, just time consuming.