Having only two wheels arranged in the same vertical axis, a motorcycle is sensitive to the slightest anomaly. Whatever its type and its power, it requires that each mechanical element integrates perfectly with the others to offer all the guarantees of comfort and safety. An anomaly in the settings, the balance of the wheels of the motorcycle, static or dynamic or a lack of maintenance can upset this fragile balance with more or less direct and visible consequences. It is the phenomenon of moving handlebars which can potentially cause a serious fall and serious bodily injury. Therefore, does the handlebars of your motorcycle move? Are you wondering what to do to stop this? Find all the useful answers in this comprehensive guide.
Why does your motorcycle handlebars move?
Driving a two-wheeled machine sometimes has some nasty surprises. Among these, you can note a swing of the handlebars. Three elements can explain this abnormal behavior of the handlebars: the handlebars, the shimmy and the sway.
Your motorcycle handlebars move due to the handlebars
The guidance is activated particularly during acceleration. It is also, in most cases, consecutive to a lightening of the handlebars of the motorcycle. It most often appears when exiting a turn, or even when restarting (for example after a stop at traffic lights). These vibrations can also appear during sudden acceleration on a rough road.
Your motorcycle handlebars move due to sway
It usually appears when driving at high speeds. The cause is to be found in the wind resistance and in the dynamic stresses. It is materialized by a lightening of the front of the motorcycle. Then the movement will end up gaining the whole of the machine thus causing a fall. It should be noted that swaying can also occur at low speed, in particular in the following cases: an overloaded top, unsuitable wear or tire pressure, a poorly centered rear wheel.
Your motorcycle handlebars move due to the shimmy
The shimmy is nothing more than a straight line vibration of the machine at a very moderate speed. Usually the problem is with one of the wheels. But, it can also be caused by, among other things, a warped rim, poor wheel balance, wear of a tire or incorrectly mounted (upside down), poor condition of the suspension. A simple visual or garage check actually gives the cause of this motorcycle anomaly.
Your motorcycle handlebars move: what solutions to consider?
The best solution to avoid a phone phenomenon is to maintain your motorcycle regularly. Regular and meticulous maintenance will allow you to anticipate the malfunctions of your machine. Some mechanical advice must be observed depending on the problem:
What solutions in case of guidance?
It is by far the most brutal handlebar malfunction. So, in order not to be a victim, it is necessary to inspect the suspensions, to have them revised if necessary (change of oil, seals or springs to see purely and simply replacing the tired rear shock absorbers) and also to regularly review the settings.
What solutions in case of shimmy?
If your tire fitter balances the front wheel at 60g or more, the front wheel is a good bet. The shimmy problem could quickly arise in this case. To prevent it, have your wheel rebalanced or repaired. It is also often necessary to think about replacing the tires marked with wear but also to conform to the inflation pressure recommended by the manufacturer or the manufacturer. Then remember to put a handlebar end. Note that on some motorcycles, the bar ends are of different weights. Also, replacement by stock components is recommended, playing a role in the balancing of the motorcycle. Also, don't forget to change the defective bearings. Finally, you must check the tightness of the steering column.
What solutions in case of sway?
It can be caused by both high speed and low cadence. To save yourself from such a malfunction, make sure that the rear wheel is properly centered. Remember to always check the fit of the fork crown segment and see if the forks are not twisted.
Seeing the handlebars of your motorcycle move while driving is not a fairly ordinary phenomenon and it is obviously scary. But, it is important, in such a situation, to remain calm and especially not to try to cut off the throttle immediately. Panicking would be far from the best solution. It is also strongly advised not to let go of the handlebars. This is the best way to get thrown from the craft. So, as soon as you start to feel inconsistent movements of the handlebars of your motorcycle, do not hesitate to go to the nearest garage. Your physical integrity is at stake!
