Solid Axle vs Independent Axle

[vbbuilt]

Hi everyone! I don't ride a trike (I've a 2009 Victory Vision). I'm decided to move to a trike as my left knee and now right knee, are complaining. At 59, I know what's coming down the road.

Anyway, I've seen the new pics of the 2015 Tri-Glide and my mouth is watering. I've also been in discussions with Lehman out in Spearfish. Of course they're touting the benefits of their platform. They say the ride on a Tri-Glide with a solid axle is rough when compared to a comparably equipped Electro Glide conversion using their Limited Lean Suspension (Independent) axle.

Taking a 2015 Electro Glide model and upgrading with Lehman rear-end is pricy, much more expensive when compared to a stock 2015 Tri-Glide. Adding to my dilemma is that I live in northern Virginia and there don't seem to be any Lehman dealers locally. Question comes down to logistics and availability. I'd have to arrange to have the bike converted out at their Spearfish facility. That's time consuming not to mention more costly.

Question is to those folks who've ridden both. Any truth to Lehman claims about the axles?

Thoughts?

 

[rmrc51]

Although I can't comment on the TriGlides, I can give you my impression of a solid axle vs IRS (independent rear suspension).

I previously owned a 97 Valkyrie with a MotorTrike solid axle unit. I now have a Goldwing with Roadsmith's IRS. For me, the difference between the two is very noticeable. The ride of the Roadsmith IRS is much more comfortable with it's longer wheelbase and personally I haven't noticed any difference in the IRS handling the curves as compared to the MotorTrike's solid axle. The Roadsmith handles great and is very comfortable as compared to the harder ride of my MotorTrike. Now with all that said, my MotorTrike was a great trike! Never had any issues with either the MotorTrike or Roadsmith. I guess it all depends on what you're looking for. They say the solid axles handle better in the twisties. I haven't found that to be true although I'm not an aggressive rider either. All in all, the longer wheel base IRS trikes such as the Roadsmith and Hannigan will give you a more comfortable ride. I hope this information helps. ThumbUp

 

[Rick Kay]

Rich has given you some very good information. My wife and I both love the ride of our IRS trike, and would go with IRS again.

As far as finding a kit builder closer to you:

CSC Trikes / California Sidecar
100 Motorcycle Run Arrington, VA 22922
inforequest@californiasidecar.com
www.californiasidecar.com
Sales: (800) 824-1523
Parts & Service: (434) 263-8866
Main Fax: (434) 263-8421
Parts & Service Fax: (434) 263-8877

I hope this helps!

 

[GARYD]

See "Looking For Opinion"s thread. There are some posts on this subject there too.
There is no doubt that the IRS is smoother riding then a solid axle, but only on bad roads. As I stated, very seldom do I ride on bad roads (maybe 1% of the time) so the $5K extra cost for an IRS is out of the question for me. Maybe if the difference was a few hundred dollars I would consider it.

I'm still young (70) and don't have any health issues that would make me want an IRS, but for now I love my TG with solid axle.

Which ever you get, you will love riding a trike.

I also like the warrantee on the TG

 

[vbbuilt]

Thanks for your thoughts!


Is there really that much of a noticable difference between the two axle configurations? I've never ridden a trike on long rides - only a test ride around that block. Obviously, a test ride around the block doesn't reveal much, so I only have people's opinions on which to make a decision. If the handling characteristics of the two axle configurations is minor, then my mind is made up.

The only experience I can relate to, is my bike. Longest ride is over 1200 miles. So my butt and nerves know how that feels. And of course, one can feel every nuance of the road surface, the vibration and heat of the engine, and other environment variables that wear down a rider. Those variables are present on a trike to be sure. I just can't equate what y'all saying about handling characteristics as I've nothing to relate to.

Vince.

 

[trikermutha]

If you can test ride both types of bikes test ride them..straight versus IRS and you make the decision..

If you have a lot of crappy rodes in your area the straight axle is not recommended IMO..

Good luck..

 

[rmrc51]

If you can test ride both types of bikes straight versus IRS and you make the decision..

If you have a lot of crappy rodes in your area the straight axle is not recommended IMO..

Good luck..

In all honesty, I think Trikermutha's short advice is perfect! ThumbUp

On smooth roads, the solid axle and IRS are very close. But if you genrally rides on lousy road surfaces, definitely get the IRS unless you like being bounced around alot, lol.

 

[trikermutha]

In all honesty, I think Trikermutha's short advice is perfect! ThumbUp

On smooth roads, the solid axle and IRS are very close. But if you genrally rides on lousy road surfaces, definitely get the IRS unless you like being bounced around alot, lol.

In all honesty..I have the straight axle and like the Harley but with all the crappy things going wrong on it and the crappy roads I am thinking going another way on a bike..Been test riding another brand and liking it more and more the longer I ride it..

Any way good luck

 

[DakotaRider]

There is a Lehman dealer in Martinsburg, WV. He works both Harley and Honda (other too). Check him out since you are so close. He can provide the information you want without bias.

Winston

 

[GARYD]

I agree with trikermutha and rmrc51. I don't know about an IRS , but I think you can rent a TG at your dealer. See if you like it BEFORE you buy. I was lucky that my dealer has a demo days each year so I rode a TG for the whole weekend almost non stop. Then another dealer had a local trike day and had TG's and DFT's IRS trikes to test ride. That was when I made up my mind on the solid axle. I was impressed with the IRS on the "bad" road section but didn't see any difference on the good roads. I also like the warrantee situation by buying a standard mfg's product.

See if there is a DFT or other IRS dealer in your area and see if you can test ride one. Or check with bike clubs in the area and see if maybe someone in them might have an IRS equipted bike.

 

[Alan Oakley]

Obviously this is a very personal choice issue....I have had both, a 2009 Wing with IRS MotorTrike and I currently have a 14 TG. Goldwings just don't fit me well....I love the power and smoothness of the Wing and the IRS was great. However, I invested way too much money on seats simply trying to get comfortable....I had way too much neck pain, tried the risers etc....I just couldn't get comfortable and therefore my longer rides were very limited. The TG just fits me very well....6-0, 220lb with a 33" inseam. I have not had any neck or back issues and therefore I am enjoying the riding so much more....I live in a rural area south of Dallas, Tx and I do agree that the rough roads are not nearly as forgiving as you will experience with a quality IRS. I have 5,000 miles on the TG and I do not regret the move. I realized while I was typing this how little attention I pay to the rough roads. I have told others that I can not tell any difference on the interstates or state highways. For me, it is similar to the ride of a corvette on rough roads vs. a sedan on rough roads. Having owned a corvette, I can tell you it was not forgiving on rough roads but was great on the highways.

I wanted the security of an extended warranty and the ease of service so I choose Harley and have no regrets. It really came down to warranty and even more importantly, comfort....I ride solo....just some advice....if you test ride a TG be sure and do not judge the ride on factory tire/shock settings...I run 36 in the front tire, 12 to 15 in the shocks and 24 to 26 in the read tires.....either way, you will love a Trike....good luck

 

[tbear]

In all honesty..I have the straight axle and like the Harley but with all the crappy things going wrong on it and the crappy rodes I am thinking going another way on a bike..Been test riding another brand and liking it more and more the longer I ride it..

Any way good luck

just curious, what brand may that be?? and what makes you like it more...?:Shrug:

 

[0pini0nated]

just curious, what brand may that be?? and what makes you like it more...?:Shrug:

Me too ~ inquiring minds want to know

 

[trikermutha]

just curious, what brand may that be?? and what makes you like it more...?:Shrug:

Been test driving the Can Ams.. They have a new 3 cylinder engine (Rotax),power steering the ride is smooth and has all the get up and go you will need..with lots of other goodies since I was looking at the RT Limited

- - - Updated - - -

Me too ~ inquiring minds want to know

LOL... Can AM 2014..

 

[0pini0nated]

Me toepper: Me toepper: I looked at a Freewheeler at the local dealer (it had *just* been delivered to the dealership, and was parked in a dark corner of the place) so I sat on it, but not much more than that.

I hope to ride it on H-D Open House & New Factory York Plant Tours, September 18-20.

By then, BRP be out with their F3. Once I demo that, then I'll make an informed decision.

 

[trikermutha]

Me toepper: Me toepper: I looked at a Freewheeler at the local dealer (it had *just* been delivered to the dealership, and was parked in a dark corner of the place) so I sat on it, but not much more than that.

I hope to ride it on H-D Open House & New Factory York Plant Tours, September 18-20.

By then, BRP be out with their F3. Once I demo that, then I'll make an informed decision.

Keep me posted as I think I maybe buying a 2014 next week?? See how things go..

 

[ROAD DOG]

I really can not believe people say a straight axle can handle better then independent ?? Somebody should tell chevrolet to redesign the new corvettes & put a straight axle back in them like they had back in 1962 ??? JUST A THOUGHT

 

[Sloufoot]

I really can not believe people say a straight axle can handle better then independent ?? Somebody should tell chevrolet to redesign the new corvettes & put a straight axle back in them like they had back in 1962 ??? JUST A THOUGHT

The first things that come to mind would be cost then more moving parts for the IRS. More chance of things going wrong. There isn't a factory Trike that has IRS, so no complete Trike warranty........For a reason to buy straight over IRS. As far as handling, the whole IRS unit depends on the front motorcycle length & suspension on the whole unit.
Some are using air on the IRS others are using spring over shock. Different weights set up different ways may out perform the other. I think with the newer IRS systems they can be set up to out perform the straight axle in corners. That being said, the straight axle will perform in the twisties from the get-go. Very simple set-ups.

 

[trikermutha]

On my DFT IRS trike I could drive just like I did on corners as my Triglide. Just the bumps get smoother on the IRS the Triglide will rock the bike over bumps..Both are nice bikes but as I get older my body cant handle the bumps like I use to with the straight axle ,even with all the added things to try to make it a softer ride..

 

[tfdeputydawg]

There isn't a factory Trike that has IRS, so no complete Trike warranty.........

Trike conversions come w/warranties.
The "donor" bikes OEM warranty can be affected!

 

[Sloufoot]

I was looking at the DFT IRS for the Tri Glides. Looks great, & a simple install. Even went as far as to talk with them about their policy for having only authorized shops do the install. I was told that they would bypass that is I could do everything myself.
I couldn't get over the expense of the conversion just to get IRS. So I convinced myself when the rear end wears out under the Tri I might do it then.... The other day I installed a pair of Progressive 416 shocks........ Now I don't think I will do the IRS ! HUGE DIFFERENCE !! A set of shocks that have a great progressive spring rate, & a shock that actually works as a shock ! Also the top pressure for a load is 100# not 50#. And they are re-buildable !
Also,,, you can purchase the rear rotors from DFT which are 10.5" & their mounting plate to use your stock calipers that would give you some better brakes, all for a measly $600.This would fit the stock Tri Glide.

 

[rap47]

I was looking at the DFT IRS for the Tri Glides. Looks great, & a simple install. Even went as far as to talk with them about their policy for having only authorized shops do the install. I was told that they would bypass that is I could do everything myself.
I couldn't get over the expense of the conversion just to get IRS. So I convinced myself when the rear end wears out under the Tri I might do it then.... The other day I installed a pair of Progressive 416 shocks........ Now I don't think I will do the IRS ! HUGE DIFFERENCE !! A set of shocks that have a great progressive spring rate, & a shock that actually works as a shock ! Also the top pressure for a load is 100# not 50#. And they are re-buildable !
Also,,, you can purchase the rear rotors from DFT which are 10.5" & their mounting plate to use your stock calipers that would give you some better brakes, all for a measly $600.This would fit the stock Tri Glide.

I have been thinking about the 416 shocks also. So far the results from owners who have installed them are very positive and for the price I think they would be money well spent. I love the way mine handles so I will be sticking with the straight axles. Although I have not ridden an IRS trike, I have seen two DFT trikes traded for Tri Glides at our dealer.

 

[trikermutha]

I put on my old shocks and tires along with removing the lift brackets..And drove it around..Didnt check tire pressure yet but seemed like a whole new bike over the bumps..Think the tire pressure is low..

 

[vbbuilt]

Thanks for all the great opinions!

So test drove the 2015 TG this past weekend and I'm sold! Gorgeous machine! The Frederick dealership had a single 2015 in stock, the dark grey one. Pinstriping is a plus, but preferred the White/Blue model. Apparently, they're hard to find on the east coast, but put a deposit on a White/Blue nevertheless and girded myself for the wait. Got a call yesterday. I was thrilled to learn that they found one down in Chesapeake. Taking delivery this weekend!

Even though I watched their obligatory video, I still wasn't quite prepared at how differently a trike handles vs two-wheel. Took me a few moments to change my riding patterns. Suffice to stay, when I drive out of the dealership this coming weekend, it's going to be go-slo-mode for a bit until I become accustomed to the dynamics.

I noted those comments about how rough a solid axle can be compared to IRS-type suspension, so I added a Road Zeppelin Air Adjustable Seat as an option, thinking it might help take the edge off, on those bumps. Also upgraded the exhaust with Screamin' Eagle Street Cannons and a taller windershield.

I'll be sure to post pics when I can. Thanks once again for your comments!

Vince.

 

[pcombe]

I live in Wyoming and towns are 100 miles apart with lots of open prairie and high mountain twistes.
I rode both the independent and straight axle models.
I found the straight axle to (Feel) more solid in the curves giving me a sensation of more control.
However the independent suspension feels much better on my cities crappy streets. I can get along with it on the mountain roads also.

I will be honest, the longer wheel base makes a difference anywhere.
How much riding are you going to do in town?

I built my trike myself and I built it for the highway, as soon as I get it up to speed the ride smooth's right out with my champion straight axle kit and I just don't see any reason to go the extra expense involved in the independent suspension. of course shocks make a difference, I use air shocks, others swear by progressive shocks both are good.

Installing a raked triple tree to improve handling is a necessity on just about any trike.

I reasoned that if a straight axle was good enough for the tri-glide it was good enough for me, and that has proved the case for my riding terrain and style.

I live within 150 miles of Spearfish and the Leman factory and they do good work for sure.
If you are at all handy with a wrench and have a motor manual handy for reference (torque values etc.) you can convert your own.
There are a few tricks such as using a spot weld on the bottom neck race for easy removal but these tricks are easy to find out by asking folks on this forum for advice and checking out the build forums.

There are sponsors on this forum that will sell you a kit and deliver it to your door to do yourself and those who insist they do the conversion for you, (ask for assistance and you will get it a discounted price.)

The difference between a good trike and a bad one depends entirely on the integrity of the builder. (ask before turning your bike over to just anyone)
I was able to control quality from the word go by doing the conversion myself, No corners were cut, no shortcuts taken etc.
I'm not the only one here who has done it themselves.

for pics of the conversion Google - pcombe library/photobucket



How hard can you take a corner on a trike no matter which style suspension?
If you screw up and miss the corner, back off 5MPH and try again?

P.S. I have never had a back wheel come off the ground.

 

[2234ME]

IMHO There is NO comparison. Years ago too many to remember I owned a solid axle trike. One of the rear wheels was always coming off the ground. ended up flipping it broke 3 ribs my collar bone and lost my spleen. Last year I was shopping for a trike I rented a Tri Glide from Myrtle Beach H.D. not much had changed, when cornering very hard the tire lifted. The right more so than the left. I found a newly converted Road King Classic with a Motor Trike IRS. I have tried to get a tire to lift riding very hard and aggressively it stays put. I did not get to ride the TRI Glide on Upstate NY. winding weather beaten roads like I have the Motor Trike. I need a rake kit to improve and ease it's turning but it sure is a comfortable ride on rough roads Hope this helps in your decision with whatever you choose. Ride safe

 

[GARYD]

Well, it looks like if you are going to ride on bad roads most of the time or want to raise one of the rear wheels around a corner = get an IRS.

If on the other hand you travel on good roads most of the time and are not a speed demon around corners = stay with the solid axle. Why spend $5000+ when you don't need to?

Simple decision.
For me it was a stock Harley with a full mfg's warranty.

 

[pcombe]

Thanks for all the great opinions!

So test drove the 2015 TG this past weekend and I'm sold! Gorgeous machine! The Frederick dealership had a single 2015 in stock, the dark grey one. Pinstriping is a plus, but preferred the White/Blue model. Apparently, they're hard to find on the east coast, but put a deposit on a White/Blue nevertheless and girded myself for the wait. Got a call yesterday. I was thrilled to learn that they found one down in Chesapeake. Taking delivery this weekend!

Even though I watched their obligatory video, I still wasn't quite prepared at how differently a trike handles vs two-wheel. Took me a few moments to change my riding patterns. Suffice to stay, when I drive out of the dealership this coming weekend, it's going to be go-slo-mode for a bit until I become accustomed to the dynamics.

I noted those comments about how rough a solid axle can be compared to IRS-type suspension, so I added a Road Zeppelin Air Adjustable Seat as an option, thinking it might help take the edge off, on those bumps. Also upgraded the exhaust with Screamin' Eagle Street Cannons and a taller windershield.

I'll be sure to post pics when I can. Thanks once again for your comments!

Vince.

Now all you gotta do is learn to keep your feet up and watch your back fenders especially around a gas pump. Old habits die hard!
Learn to lock an elbow in a turn to decrease fatigue,

 

[2234ME]

Well, it looks like if you are going to ride on bad roads most of the time or want to raise one of the rear wheels around a corner = get an IRS.

If on the other hand you travel on good roads most of the time and are not a speed demon around corners = stay with the solid axle. Why spend $5000+ when you don't need to?

Simple decision.
For me it was a stock Harley with a full mfg's warranty.

Looks like you and I view thing diff. I have never kept anything stock and never will. The last thing I want is the same bike as anyone who walks into a dealer can buy. The day that happens I'll quit riding,Start drinking warm milk and in bed by 9 = BORING yolo

 

[GARYD]

Looks like you and I view thing diff. I have never kept anything stock and never will. The last thing I want is the same bike as anyone who walks into a dealer can buy. The day that happens I'll quit riding,Start drinking warm milk and in bed by 9 = BORING yolo

You're quite right. We definitely do see things differently. Most all my vehicles I keep stock except for safety or comfort items. My 2003 Ultra was the last bike I put every conceivable update/upgrade to = I got zip back for any of that stuff when I sold it.
The reason I did it in the first place was because I almost totaled it on the Pig Trail in Arkansas. I thought now's my chance to upgrade all the chrome goodies and other stuff because all I had to do was pay the difference between the stock parts and the upgrades, didn't even have to pay labor since that was already covered in the insurance. I saved thousands of dollars doing that. Never again. I have no problems with having the same thing as somebody else. I do not want to stand out in the crowd. I like being anonymous.

I do like looking at what others do to their bikes though. ThumbUp