Power Trippin

I have started to look for causes of why it seems like I am always chasing the front end at hwy speeds, even slower speeds sometimes. I have read about the possible causes that other people have posted. One thing I have noticed on my bike is; when it is on the center stand, with the front wheel off the ground, I can feel a detent in the steering, exactly at center position. (Handle bars centered) I think I know my answer, but I wanted to hear from the experts. I am suspecting I either need to replace the bearings in the steering or at least take them out and get some fresh grease on them. I know this may not be the reason for the front end chase, however, I need to rule it out. I have played with air pressures, inspected the frame for the crack that may happen on the 83's. I have not checked the rear sway bar bushings yet. I have E III's front and rear, it has done this since I have had the bike. I put these tires on it before I even rode it. Back to my question, Is it normal to have a detent in the centered position?

Great Idea! I knew that there was a reason I read this site everyday.

Looks like it is ready for the next MAD MAX movie!

So I have seen some recent discussions about wind buffeting at hwy speeds. It reminded me that both my son and my wife have complained about that. I thought it was just normal on my 83. So my question is,.....Is it normal? Is there anything I can do to reduce it? Any aftermarket windshields that may help or wing add on's? What have other people had luck with?

I also have an 83 that I put more money in than it was worth at the time. However, after having it for a few years, puttin a couple o miles on er. She is part of the family. Seriously, my wife loves er as well as my kids. I wouldn't give er up for any less than 7k. Post some pics. If you do decide to part ways, there are people here lookin to add nicer parts to theirs. Me included and you may not be too far away for some of us to take a look at her. Post some pics and see what happens.

Yes mine says that to. However, I believe it is the old method of rating octane, not the current rating. I know there has been extensive talk on the site about what gas to use. The engine in a first gen will run on 87 octane all day long, just do not let it sit for more than a month, MAXIMUM. Gas now days does not last long at all. Add stabilizer or some form of gas treatment if it's going to sit for a while. I have said it before, so I'll say it again. I only run non-oxygenated fuel in my bike, unless I can't get it. Then I make sure to use it up and not let it sit. The Ethanol in regular gas is horrible if it sits for any length of time. Corrodes, eats o-rings, etc, bad stuff!!!!

It still sounds like dirty carbs to me. What did it run like before you cleaned the carbs?

:stirthepot:SUPER GLUE!!!!!!

I believe my sticker on my 83 was on the left trim panel, right below the seat. I know there has been past discussions on fuel, so I will just say what I use, not trying to start any arguments! I use 87 when I do not have access to Non-Oxygenated fuel. Nuff said about that.

I renewed my subscription to this awesome sight! Best money I have spent in a long time. I still have way too many upgrades to my Blonde to lose this valuable information. Not to mention the great chit chat and stuff.

DITTO on what everybody else said about the wheels, at least the front, needs to have something to keep it from sliding from side to side. Minimum straps is 2 on the front and three on the back. On the back, you want one on each side of the bike and one going straight back to keep it more secure in case of an emergency stop. Believe me,......it can happen. Don't ask me how I know. OH YEA.....RIDE IT!!!!! LOL, sorry couldn't resist.

1 9" please. USA

It's the same with GM vehicles. AWD OR 4WD, can't have more than 2/32" tread difference or it will eventually turn your transfer case into a rock grinder!

Put me down for one!

Words just don't say enough. . . . Very Sorry for your loss!

Very nice. I need to upgrade mine now, hope it looks half as good!

Prayers sent for a full and speedy recovery!

Thanks for the info, I'll keep looking!

I am also looking for a good trunk, will an 86 fit on an 83 without too much trouble?

Looks like brake fluid reservoir for rear master cyl., but picture is very dark to be sure!

I've done that a few times, but they are long stories. My vehicles always looked a lot worse than that though, so GOOD JOB!!! LOL

i love this idea!!!!!!

Sounds electrical, go thru all connectors. Disconnect, look for signs of corrossion on the terminals. You can get electrical terminal cleaning spray at most automotive stores. re-connect the connectors and disconnect them at least 3 times, then apply dielectric grease to all terminals. Check the ground connections on the bike. Might need to remove the handlebar controls with the start button and check the connections in there too. Keep us posted on the process and everyone here will help the best we can. Don't give up on her, shes a great bike, I've got one too. So I, as well as many other people on this site, can testify to that.

I am ready for summer too, and I like the winter! We are expecting one more blast this week, possibly 10"'s.

Worked good for me, I'm on there. Great Idea!!