BLUF: do we collectively have so many speed wobbles and handlebar shakes because it's near impossible to put this bike on the centerstand by default, and we're all side loading our tires every night?
So the bike is parked for a replacement thermal fan switch, but it gave me time to ruminate on my new-to-me ride... I park all my bikes on the center stand, but when I went to see this one it was in the guys garage on the side stand. On my walkaround, I noticed rust on the center stand pads... like it hadn't been used in years. Of course, I now know why, this bike doesn't like to get on the center stand. I still manage, but all 150 lbs of me has to pull pretty hard on the grab rail every time.
First ride proved there was a wobble, and this forum is full of wobble stories. Tightening head nut helped a little, but the front tire was so warped I could feel it. New tire and she's rock solid. I'm guessing the old tire (6 year old manuf date) spent it's whole life leaned over and propping up it's share of almost 700 lbs.
Tolerance to side loading is probably very tire dependent, but I wonder how much is down to a center stand without enough leverage to use regularly? Anyone know of any other bikes with a similar reputation?
So the bike is parked for a replacement thermal fan switch, but it gave me time to ruminate on my new-to-me ride... I park all my bikes on the center stand, but when I went to see this one it was in the guys garage on the side stand. On my walkaround, I noticed rust on the center stand pads... like it hadn't been used in years. Of course, I now know why, this bike doesn't like to get on the center stand. I still manage, but all 150 lbs of me has to pull pretty hard on the grab rail every time.
First ride proved there was a wobble, and this forum is full of wobble stories. Tightening head nut helped a little, but the front tire was so warped I could feel it. New tire and she's rock solid. I'm guessing the old tire (6 year old manuf date) spent it's whole life leaned over and propping up it's share of almost 700 lbs.
Tolerance to side loading is probably very tire dependent, but I wonder how much is down to a center stand without enough leverage to use regularly? Anyone know of any other bikes with a similar reputation?