Wheel Alignment Questions
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Cruiser
Joined: Nov 2009
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From: Sunrise, Florida
Wheel Alignment Questions
OK, I'm curious about the consequences of the rear wheel not being perfectly aligned with the front wheel. What happens when it's not right? Tire wear, I would suppose. Tracking? Any tricks for checking the alignment?
I guess my biggest question is does the alignment affect the position of the forks in relation to the rest of the frame while in motion? Visually on my Heritage it looks like my front forks are cocked to the right slightly while riding. I don't notice any drivability problems, it's just visually annoying. And it's not just the handlebars, it's the whole front end when viewed looking down at the front of the gas tank. Many thanks to all.
I guess my biggest question is does the alignment affect the position of the forks in relation to the rest of the frame while in motion? Visually on my Heritage it looks like my front forks are cocked to the right slightly while riding. I don't notice any drivability problems, it's just visually annoying. And it's not just the handlebars, it's the whole front end when viewed looking down at the front of the gas tank. Many thanks to all.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2006
Posts: 2,537
Likes: 21
OK, I'm curious about the consequences of the rear wheel not being perfectly aligned with the front wheel. What happens when it's not right? Tire wear, I would suppose. Tracking? Any tricks for checking the alignment?
I guess my biggest question is does the alignment affect the position of the forks in relation to the rest of the frame while in motion? Visually on my Heritage it looks like my front forks are cocked to the right slightly while riding. I don't notice any drivability problems, it's just visually annoying. And it's not just the handlebars, it's the whole front end when viewed looking down at the front of the gas tank. Many thanks to all.
I guess my biggest question is does the alignment affect the position of the forks in relation to the rest of the frame while in motion? Visually on my Heritage it looks like my front forks are cocked to the right slightly while riding. I don't notice any drivability problems, it's just visually annoying. And it's not just the handlebars, it's the whole front end when viewed looking down at the front of the gas tank. Many thanks to all.
To validate if the bike is out of alignment, get 2 long flourescent light tubes... this will tell you if the wheels are out of alignment... In the Service manual, it will explain the spec's and how to do it CORRECTLY...
Club Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 45,429
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From: Bedford UK
Having owned Harleys since the 70s I always had my own system involving a lot of string! When I had a new tyre fitted a couple of years ago and before I put the wheel back in, I noticed the clearance between the edges of the tyre and the belt track in the pulley. In my case that was 3/16" and I now install the wheel so I have that clearance between tyre and belt. I use a 3/16" allen key as a 'feeler' gauge! Much simpler, assuming the rest of the bike is straight! Here in the UK we have to get our vehicles checked each year and mine has passed wheel alignment with flying colours.
Last edited by grbrown; Jan 20, 2010 at 04:06 AM. Reason: Grammar!
Banned
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 3,706
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From: Woodstock, Ont , Can
I've covered this many times. Some softails have the rear wheel offset to the right up to 1/2". Most have the front wheel offset to the right about 5/16" Due to belt tracking you will never get the two to follow the same path due to this and the fact the bike will be heavier on the left side. This requires a slight right tilt going down the road and a slight right input with the bars. I've moved that ***** of a 200 all over the place and have never found a spot where it will not drift left when taking my hands off the bars. Never , I say. Mainly because of the left heavy of bikes centerline. My bike is an 07 fxstc. Newer models have the rear wheel in the center now. Geeze, I wonder why?
Ron
Ron
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