Shimmy on the bars at low speed 2003 wing 1800

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A wobble at 25-35mph especially while decelerating is very common among all models of the Goldwing, at least the faired ones from the GL1100 on. On my 1500 when I put on a new front tire the wobble goes away for around 4000-5000 miles and then it slowly comes back. The wobble doesn't occur at all if I have one hand or even a couple fingers on the end of one handlebar, mostly it's a hands off phenomena. Tires and the steering head bearing tension are the two main causes but by far the tires seem to be the main cause. I really doubt replacing the head bearings on your bike will cure the problem, be careful that an overzealous mechanic doesn't over tighten them to try to stop it. That will lead to a bike that tends to wander and will damage the bearings. Normally the head bearings will last for over 20 years in good condition. It would be better to have them check the front tire for balance, run out, and cupping. If you're having a wobble with your hands on the grips and at higher speeds then something else is at work and not the common 35mph wobble.

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BK

Withan 1800 the decell wobble you experience is totally normal. That doesn't mean it's right, just normal. As your tires wear, it gets worse. Some tires are more prone to wobble than others. (even individual tires of the same brand and type)



Part of the reason for the wobble is that Honda has chosen to use ball bearings the steering stem that are more suited to a mountain bike (read bicycle... Yup, bicycle..) that to an 800 lb plus touring bike. The front suspension being different side to side (cartridge in one side, damper rod in the other) probably doesn't help either.



You have at least 3 choices for solutions.

#1 If this just developed and your bike isn't one of the chronic wobblers, new tires will probably fix it for a while, until they start to wear and cup.

#2 All Ballsroller bearings for the steering stem usually solve the problem. They are a cheap fix at $45 for the set, but since the steering stem is buried pretty deeply, it's a several hour job to replace them. If you have your dealer do it, you are probably looking at $250 or so plus the bearings.

#3 There is a guy who makes a steering damper for a Goldwing. http://seeleyproducts.com/faqs/index.html



I went with the All Balls, plus I installed RaceTech Gold Valves and better springs at the same time. The wobble was much diminished, but still there until I got rid of the worn cupped and probably out of balance tires. It is gone now, and hasn't come back even as my tires wear. Also, the front is showing no signs of cupping.



Dave

GWBBA #9

rocketmoto.com

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Welcome from the state of Pennsylvania!

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To all concerned. Thank you for taking the time to respond to my inquiry. Your input is greatly appreciated.

Blue



Past rides,

Honda CT-90

Honda MT-250

Honda 750Four

Honda 750 Hondamatic

Honda GL 1200 Interstate

Honda GL 1800