Riding at Highway Speeds (55

Riding at Highway Speeds (55 - 65)

by Mimi
(Tacoma, Wa)

I just purchased my first motorcycle, a Harley Sportster, and am learning as I ride. I've had it about a month now and am getting braver with each ride. When my husband and I are reaching highway speeds, I notice that the back of the bike feels like it's swaying a bit and that freaks me out and I slow a bit. I also notice that I feel like the bike wants to wonder slightly from inside the lane. Not knowing exactly what it should be doing, I think that the bike is at fault. It may be perfectly normal and I just have to get used to it. We have been riding almost daily since getting our bikes and I see a noticeable improvement every time I ride. My friend says it may be my weight (145 lbs) on the bike that makes it less stable. My husband is 40 lbs heavier and he doesn't notice what I do and both our bikes are the same.

Comments for
Riding at Highway Speeds (55 - 65)

Click here to add your own comments

Mar 30, 2009

Swaying
by: Bridgett

I also have a Sporster (883), it is a 2005. I just bought it and started learning in Feb. I have never noticed that feeling. I am heavier than you (sadly) at 180. I agree, check tire pressure. If you bought your bike from a private party (used) I would take it to your Harley dealer and have them do a safety inspection. I did that to mine before I purchased it. They didn't even charge me. They did the same type of check they do when they take a trade or consignment. If it is new, speak with your service dept just to make sure and feel safer. My bike vibrates ALOT, I have screaming Eagle pipes and the bike is loud, but never have I notice a sway. Could be your roads to?

Have fun and be safe!

Bridgett

Mar 29, 2009

Riding at Highway Speeds (55 - 65)
by: Tracy

Congratulations on your bike - and welcome to the ranks for two wheelers :D

The first thing that comes to mind with regards the the movement is tyre pressure - not sure if you bike is new or second hand, however it may be worth checking your pressures - this can make a huge difference to handling.

None the less, I would definitely get it looked at just to be safe.

Mar 29, 2009

Congrats to You
by: Brycie

For having only about a month with the bike I would say that you are doing great with the riding if you are doing highway (55-65 mph) speeds. There is a ?learning curve? for all new riders, which includes confidence building in your skills.

You didn?t mention whether your Sportster was the 883 or the 1200. If it is the 883 then the high center of gravity of that bike does create some strange feelings while riding. I assume you have mentioned it to your hubby, next thing is take the bike back to the dealer and ask them if that is a natural feeling.

Good luck in your riding and confidence building with your bike.

Click here to add your own comments

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How?
Simply click here to return to Ask (or answer) a Question