Swingarm alignment...
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 2,488
Likes: 30
From: Maryland near DC
I know this may sound like it is way out there but have you checked the neck bearings to make sure they are right..also, have you checked the whole frame to see if it is some how out of square or has a broken weld somewhere...and for that matter, have you tried changing the seat..i have seen seats that move sideways throw a bike off kilter..
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Road Warrior
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 1,573
Likes: 138
From: StL, MO. USA
I know this may sound like it is way out there but have you checked the neck bearings to make sure they are right..also, have you checked the whole frame to see if it is some how out of square or has a broken weld somewhere...and for that matter, have you tried changing the seat..i have seen seats that move sideways throw a bike off kilter..
Seat is solid.
Advanced
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 72
Likes: 1
From: Nova Scotia, Canada
Hey Jumpman,
Just came across your post thought i'd throw my 2 cents worth in.
I too have been chasing the exact same "Waggle", I put Avon Cobras on the bike two seasons ago felt great the first season, but this year I've added Progressive Monotubes Progressive 944 shocks, all new wheel bearings front and rear, as well as Pulley bearings. New swing arm spherical bearings and the bushings. I run the recommended pressures in front and back, according to Avons website, which was amended about a year ago. They recommend 44-48 in the rear. My "waggle" is getting worse with the more miles I put on them, and the rear tire is cupped(scalloped). I really think its the tires after putting more than a $1000 bucks into trying to fix this issue, I'll be replacing them in the spring with Michelin Commander II's.
I know there are quite a few differences in our year of bikes, but my symptoms are exactly what you stated. Just thought i'd put my thoughts and experiences out there. I'll be following this post, and keep you up to date when I swap out the tires!!
Good Luck!!
Just came across your post thought i'd throw my 2 cents worth in.
I too have been chasing the exact same "Waggle", I put Avon Cobras on the bike two seasons ago felt great the first season, but this year I've added Progressive Monotubes Progressive 944 shocks, all new wheel bearings front and rear, as well as Pulley bearings. New swing arm spherical bearings and the bushings. I run the recommended pressures in front and back, according to Avons website, which was amended about a year ago. They recommend 44-48 in the rear. My "waggle" is getting worse with the more miles I put on them, and the rear tire is cupped(scalloped). I really think its the tires after putting more than a $1000 bucks into trying to fix this issue, I'll be replacing them in the spring with Michelin Commander II's.
I know there are quite a few differences in our year of bikes, but my symptoms are exactly what you stated. Just thought i'd put my thoughts and experiences out there. I'll be following this post, and keep you up to date when I swap out the tires!!
Good Luck!!
Cruiser
Joined: May 2013
Posts: 103
Likes: 0
From: Cincinnati, Oh
What are your suspension settings front and rear? Are you having the problems two up or solo?
If the suspension is not set up then you are in for trouble. The Harley Davidson, in general has absolutely horrid brakes and suspension compared to just about every other bike out there. If the suspension is stock you need to tune the suspension to you (and your passenger) before it will work properly, imo.
Are you putting a lot of weight on it and not tuning the suspension and expecting it to work flawlessly? It won't. Check your front and rear sag etc and adjust as needed.
Remember, if the front is too stiff or soft it will effect the rear. If the rear is too stiff or soft it will effect the front. They work in concert, or should.
p.s. There is a tool made for alignment of H-D chassis; I had a friend check my '03 and it was out 1/4" (upper motor mount I believe).
If the suspension is not set up then you are in for trouble. The Harley Davidson, in general has absolutely horrid brakes and suspension compared to just about every other bike out there. If the suspension is stock you need to tune the suspension to you (and your passenger) before it will work properly, imo.
Are you putting a lot of weight on it and not tuning the suspension and expecting it to work flawlessly? It won't. Check your front and rear sag etc and adjust as needed.
Remember, if the front is too stiff or soft it will effect the rear. If the rear is too stiff or soft it will effect the front. They work in concert, or should.
p.s. There is a tool made for alignment of H-D chassis; I had a friend check my '03 and it was out 1/4" (upper motor mount I believe).
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 622
Likes: 2
From: Connecticut
For me, new Dunlop Elite tires and Ride-on tire balance/puncture protection made a huge difference in my ride. I had new tires mounted and balanced at the HD dealer. After installing them it felt like I was getting really bad buffeting on the highway. Returned home and added the recommended amount of Ride-on to the tires (8oz + 2oz for balance) and it rides great!!!
I can't recommend this product enough.
I can't recommend this product enough.
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