[jkgoldwing]

Hi,

i just purchase my first bike...1983 Godwing Interstate. I love her! I hvae a good friend who is working with and helping me into the Bike world. One of the things he said is my bike has to be "told" where to go, especially at slows speeds where other bikes are not a difficult to turn and move.

is this normal for Godwing or heavy bikes? If it is, i was wondering why? is it the weight alone, the angel of the forks or does anyone know?

When i drive her she does have to be told where to turn. Any thoughts?
thanks,
jkgoldwing

 

[AApple]

Welcome to the GW forum!
Yeah, in a sense, any bike has to be "told" where to go...they don't drive themselves. You'll find that using your weight to lean/turn a Wing is a bit harder than a smaller bike, for sure....unless you're a big guy, that is. You need to guide the bike with the handlebars, and slow-speed maneuvers require some weight shifting finesse...
You might want to check into a New Riders Course for motorcycles, also. You'd be amazed at what they can teach you. I rode a bike every day for several years back in the '80s, and never had any problems. When I bought my Wing earlier this year, I went ahead and took a Rider's course, because I hadn't been on two wheels for a LONG time...I glad I did take the course. I learned how to handle the weight of the bigger bike in slow speed situations. That alone was worth the cost of the course.

 

[detdrbuzzard]

like aapple stated please take a msf course. thats a good looking wing you have and big heavy bikes like wings do take a little more effort on your part to turn but once you become comfortable on your wing it won't seem so big. one day you will look back and laugh about it

 

[joe in calif]

Some bikes handle better than others, but you are in control and once you get comfortable with your bike it will handle better. There are other things that make handling easier, such as front fork springs, tire brand and air pressure, your position on the seat. etc. Once you feel comfortable you will be taking the twisties easily

 

[lonewolftx]

Yep, MSF is great. You might also like to look at this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOwVaYquz7g&feature=related It may give you some insight.