Who's using leading links on their outfits ?

[greg_in_london]

I just wondered how many people with sidecars on their Ventures have fitted leading links. My steering has been mostly light enough on my outfit with a double adult sidecar has been easy enough, even with a big trailer in tow, but on very long tours it's tiring and I'm not getting any younger.

 

I've had leading links on other outfits and it makes for a much easier ride, as well as lighter steering, but at the expense of a handlebar heavier wobble at THAT speed.

 

You don't get anything for nothing, but who else has kept with the standard forks and who has gone with links ?

[Aussie Annie]

Hi Greg,

I have leading link on my '07 RSV with sidecar and it sure makes it easier on the shoulders-- although I'm female, I'm a "big" girl and usually have no problem with the bigger bikes (rode an ST1300-heavy bugger) But have to say after a full day riding I am glad the link is on the car. Also since an accident the upper body got weaker still, so another bonus for the link on. After surgery the right leg won't bend much now, so am changing to a voyager trike conversion to keep riding, but leading link will stay on the bike

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never ride faster than your guardian angel:2133:can fly

[BigBoyinMS]

Leading Links are VERY uncommon here in the States but I really like them. I actually like the way they look... especially the one on Annies. At some point I would like to build a V8 trike and I'll be using a leading link, when and if I do.

[craigatcsi]

Okay, I'll admit it, I am dumb on this.

 

What is a 'leading link'?

 

Pics?

 

craigr

[Aussie Annie]

Okay, I'll admit it, I am dumb on this.

 

What is a 'leading link'?

 

Pics?

 

craigr

Hi Craig,

 

A leading link suspension moves the centre of the axle forward ( rake angle IS changed) from the original factory forks thus making it easier to turn--when you have a sidecar or trike. Its' like having power steering when you have to pull the car around a corner. Hope that answers your query and if you check my album you will see a photo

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never ride faster than your guardian angel :2133:can fly

Edited April 19, 2009 by Aussie Annie
checked with engineer on rake angle

[greg_in_london]

This is a picture of leading links on another sidecar outfit I have.

http://i252.photobucket.com/albums/hh10/greg_in_london/sidecar/DSCF1032.jpg

Instead of relying on telescopic forks, the forks are fixed tubes, supporting a swingarm with the front wheel mounted in it.

The result is far more rigid, rolls over bumps far better and usually allows some adjustment of trail to give lighter steering.

[RandyR]

The old BMW Earles front forks.

[wes0778]

Hi Craig,

 

A leading link suspension moves the centre of the axle forward ( rake angle IS changed) from the original factory forks thus making it easier to turn--when you have a sidecar or trike. Its' like having power steering when you have to pull the car around a corner. Hope that answers your query and if you check my album you will see a photo

______________________________________________________________________

never ride faster than your guardian angel :2133:can fly

 

Is that necessary 'cause the side car is on the wrong side?

 

 

I'm sorry, I just couldn't help my self...

[SteveW]

I have thought about doing a rake on mine but can still hold my own for now in the twisties.

It will wear you out after a day in the twisties.

I look at it as upper body strength excerise LOL

[greg_in_london]

I used to think of it as upper body exercise when I used to use the bike and sidecar regularly, but now it gets used now and then for major trips, always heavily loaded. So I don't get to build up my strength, just abuse my body. Mind you, the suspension upgrades have made quite a difference.