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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: sdhow on July 24, 2015, 02:46:58 PM

Title: 1200 Sport - Adding a Steering Damper/Stabilizer
Post by: sdhow on July 24, 2015, 02:46:58 PM
 
If I remember correctly, some of the spine frame V11s came from the factory with steering stabilzers.  Was this the case with any of the big motor Breva-chassis bikes that followed?  I know the Sport was short-lived, as it kinda gave way to the naked Griso and Piaggio refocused on the V7s as the sportier offerings...and the bigger sport bikes were delegated to Aprilla. 
Title: Re: 1200 Sport - Adding a Steering Damper/Stabilizer
Post by: Vasco DG on July 24, 2015, 04:25:56 PM
Last thing a 1200 Sport needs is a steering damper!
Title: Re: 1200 Sport - Adding a Steering Damper/Stabilizer
Post by: sdhow on July 24, 2015, 05:36:36 PM
Last thing a 1200 Sport needs is a steering damper!

ok...please elaborate.
Title: Re: 1200 Sport - Adding a Steering Damper/Stabilizer
Post by: ohiorider on July 24, 2015, 05:39:21 PM
Well, I can think of a few other items I'd do first.  But, there must be some reason you're asking about a damper,  so let us know.  I'm at 57,500 miles on my 1200 Sport, and have found it to be as stable as a gyroscope, whether running 80-90 on the slab, or working my way through the twisties.  Never a sign of instability.

Now, I will say, that the original tires left a lot to be desired.  My bike took loads of counter steering pressure to enter a turn, then, abruptly, the bike would want to fall into the turn, requiring reverse counter steering to recover.

I first changed to ME880 tires, which cured the problem, but were slightly harsh.

A switch to Michelin PR3 tires front and rear was the solution to nice handling and good mileage.  I may try the PR4 next.

Bob
Title: Re: 1200 Sport - Adding a Steering Damper/Stabilizer
Post by: Vasco DG on July 24, 2015, 06:22:34 PM
ok...please elaborate.

It has very conservative steering geometry and a wheelbase like a Mack truck.

Petr
Title: Re: 1200 Sport - Adding a Steering Damper/Stabilizer
Post by: ohiorider on July 24, 2015, 06:28:12 PM
 ...... and only slightly shorter than that of the Griso, which is Mack Truck plus.
Title: Re: 1200 Sport - Adding a Steering Damper/Stabilizer
Post by: Vasco DG on July 24, 2015, 06:46:00 PM
...... and only slightly shorter than that of the Griso, which is Mack Truck plus.

Quite! It's absurd!  :grin:
Title: Re: 1200 Sport - Adding a Steering Damper/Stabilizer
Post by: bad Chad on July 24, 2015, 08:44:39 PM
The 11/1200 Breva needs a steering damper as much as it needs Ape Hangers.