Ok, as several of you know I just got a 2003 SVS yesterday. The bike runs fine but of course needs several refreshes. Suspension being one of them. Thankfully it's in rideable condition as it sits. However, there are a few things that I need to address earlier rather than later.
#1 and the topic of this thread is steering. Not necessarily handling, but steering. Let me preface my question with context, this is the first sportbike I have owned.
Previously I had a Triumph Sprint, a 1200gs, and I now also have a 2018 Thruxton (and a multitude of dirt bikes). The steering is different for each of course.
During my SVS test ride, I noticed that taking the steering off center at speed corners was quite heavy. This MAY be due to the steering stabilizer but I really don't know. However, at one point I needed to make a very sharp turn at a low speed (10 or 15 mph) and had to "push past" the heavy steering to navigate the turn. When I did this, it felt like the bike suddenly overcame the "near center" resistance and then QUICKLY transitioned to a deep lean, almost throwing me off. I was a bit surprised. All other bikes I've owned had a smooth transition from center to deep lean without any abruptness or resistance.
I am curious what I am dealing with here, Is it normal for the bike? Is it the nature of close set clip ons? Is it the steering stabilizer? All of the above? Or something more nefarious?
Thanks to all in advance and Happy New Year!
#1 and the topic of this thread is steering. Not necessarily handling, but steering. Let me preface my question with context, this is the first sportbike I have owned.
Previously I had a Triumph Sprint, a 1200gs, and I now also have a 2018 Thruxton (and a multitude of dirt bikes). The steering is different for each of course.
During my SVS test ride, I noticed that taking the steering off center at speed corners was quite heavy. This MAY be due to the steering stabilizer but I really don't know. However, at one point I needed to make a very sharp turn at a low speed (10 or 15 mph) and had to "push past" the heavy steering to navigate the turn. When I did this, it felt like the bike suddenly overcame the "near center" resistance and then QUICKLY transitioned to a deep lean, almost throwing me off. I was a bit surprised. All other bikes I've owned had a smooth transition from center to deep lean without any abruptness or resistance.
I am curious what I am dealing with here, Is it normal for the bike? Is it the nature of close set clip ons? Is it the steering stabilizer? All of the above? Or something more nefarious?
Thanks to all in advance and Happy New Year!