keithert

I recently bought a 1998 Ural sidecar rig. It is fun but I have my doubts about it's reliability. Between it's rough shifting transmission, wooden brakes and slow takeoff it is not an easy bike to ride. But I do like the idea of the sidecar for family rides and for bad weather riding. I debate putting the sidecar on my RSTD. DMC sells the mounts to put the Ural hack on another bike. They would cost about $1400. I wonder though how a Venture/RSTD would take to a sidecar. I know it would have plenty of power. But how difficult would it be to steer? The Ural takes a good amount of leaning to corner quickly. The RSTD is heavy to begin with. How would that be with a sidecar attached? http://i1034.photobucket.com/albums/a422/keithert/Ural/IMG_4374631128354_zpsqncjzkgg.jpeg http://i1034.photobucket.com/albums/a422/keithert/Ural/20141018_171531_zpsknupjam9.jpg

Good, an RSTD is what I have.

Was that for a RSTD or a Venture?

I currently have the Barons bars on my RSTD. I would like a bit more pull back. Do the Flanders bars (650-08091) have more or less pullback than the Barons?

I had mine made so my Utopia backrest works with the Russell seat. They just didn't build up the front of the passenger seat as much.

I have the same concerns with the seat I just bought. I'm glad to read that you did too and they worked out with break in.

I received the Russell seat today and got it mounted. I am using a Utopia backrest between the rider and passenger sections. I didn't have any major issues getting it all bolted together. The backrest is a bit tricky with any seat but it went on okay. This seat does not look like other RDL seats I've seen. It seems higher than others. When I first sat on it it was very uncomfortable in the sense that I was on tip toes to reach the ground. Normally I can flat foot this bike no problem. If I lean forward I can reach the ground. I went for a 20 mile ride and the seat was certainly comfortable. The riding position is what is odd. It doesn't feel like my bike! The seating position is now more upright tourer than cruiser. I think I'll get used to it, but it is different. http://i1034.photobucket.com/albums/a422/keithert/20140905_134739_zpsqul7dfbz.jpg http://i1034.photobucket.com/albums/a422/keithert/20140905_234952_zpstqrz3cuo.jpg

Didn't 85 still have the second gear issue?

I went with the Russell with the velour seating. It is shipping today. I hope I like it! I hope to have it by next Thursday for a ride I'm taking. I really hope this was not a waste of money.

Was the trunk on the 86-93 Venture removable with the key like the 83-85 were?

I have a Venture seat on the way. I'll give it a try. If that doesn't do it for me I'll order a Russell.

I see that for a passenger over 150 the firmer suspension is required. I'm surprised the limit is that low. I will also require the extra suspension since i am right at the limit for the driver. Did you guys that have Russells have to get the firmer suspension?

I met Don at the 2000 VTS Rally in Somerset KY. Kept in touch periodically since.

How is the velour working out for you? I'm considering a Russell and wonder which surface to get. I also have an RSTD.

I called Russell today and with their seat I will still be able to use my Utopia backrest so that cuts down on their cost somewhat. They are scheduling now for mid August builds and the seat would be back by the beginning of September. If I go this route I'll keep my Danny Gray seats for use in the meantime. Normally I only need to be able to ride a couple of hundred miles a day. But I'd like to not have a limit. When I had my Venture I had no limit. While I'm waiting for the Russell I may also try a Venture seat on the RSTD.