Trike Handling.

[MikeyTX]

I'm also searching for my trike. I'm don't know why someone would say stay with 2014 or above for better handling, and smooth ride.....Ez steer and IRS ( independant rear suspension ) on conversions, have been out for a while, way before 2014.

Any body have any ideas why this was said ???

Good luck Phyllis in finding your dream trike ThumbUp

I can think of a number of reasons. Service, warranty, resale. Just to name three.

 

[Mykneesbehurtin]

I am on my first trike but this is number 16 HD,My wife and I love the trike for two up riding,my buddy has a 09 Tri Glide and he says he wishes he had some of the upgrades that mine has,better rear brakes,more power,water cooling and better gear ratio.but he is still happy with his 09 overall,mine is a 2016 Tri Glide.I have rode his 09 and i think some of it is in his head,other than needing better rear brakes his 09 seems fine to me.In another thread there was some concern about trike kits being considered an add on and not fully covered by their insurance,so you may want to check with your ins company before you make a purchase.

 

[roadking2]

I can think of a number of reasons. Service, warranty, resale. Just to name three.

I'm still trying to figure out what the service, warranty, or resale has to do with handling on the 14s and above.
Maybe you are reading something into the question I don't see.

 

[clint44]

Our SG trike steers so nicely with Zook's trees that I haven't felt the need to spend more money for different handlebars.

 

[MikeyTX]

I'm still trying to figure out what the service, warranty, or resale has to do with handling on the 14s and above.
Maybe you are reading something into the question I don't see.

The question arose regarding conversion vs factory. I chose factory. O/p is wanting to know one vs the other. Go try and trade a conversion in a few vs a factory built trike. The majority of dealers I've asked won't touch a conversion trike.

 

[clint44]

The question arose regarding conversion vs factory. I chose factory. O/p is wanting to know one vs the other. Go try and trade a conversion in a few vs a factory built trike. The majority of dealers I've asked won't touch a conversion trike.

So,you make a habit of asking dealers you visit if they would take conversion trikes in on trade,Mikey? That sounds a little weird. :laugh:
How many dealers have you actually asked?


Just pulling your chain,pal.

 

[MikeyTX]

Over the past two trips this summer to the west coast, I queried over half a dozen when I stopped to purchase poker chips. This was in NM, AZ, CA, NV, OR, WA, ID, UT, CO and, TX. I was told point blank by most that the conversions don't sell worth a damn used vs a used factory trike. Several told me they suggest to the person that they sell it outright first.

 

[paws]

So, Phyllis....
These guys have really done a HUGE response to your introductory posts and with a fantastic wealth of information.....what are your thoughts - have you come to any conclusions/decisions yet?

 

[roadking2]

The question arose regarding conversion vs factory. I chose factory. O/p is wanting to know one vs the other. Go try and trade a conversion in a few vs a factory built trike. The majority of dealers I've asked won't touch a conversion trike.

My dealer would. As a matter of fact, I was there looking around and they asked me if I was interested in trading mine in or possibly selling it. My niece works at a dealership and she told me they would take it if I was buying. I don't know where you live or the dealerships you tried, but I'm glad I don't live around the dealerships you frequent. I guess your dealerships don't want their customers getting any conversion ideas in their heads.

 

[tbear]

Steering

Welcome to the Forum! Always an exciting (and sometimes frustrating) time looking for a new Trike/bike.

I have owned a 2011 Tri-Glide and now currently have a 2014 Tri-Glide. Click this LINK where I outline the differences I observed between the two of them.

Have fun!

Kevin

Has there been anything that you have done to improve the steering on your trike other than Handlebars??? I am short armed and only 5/6" tall and don't like the bending over to turn etc.....thx. for any info. back.
tbear

 

[MikeyTX]

I have the same issue at 5'5". In addition to the DK comfort lift kit, I had the Batwing reach bars installed. HD p/n 56176-08 No cable changes were needed. I also had the Avon trike specific front tire installed after I wore out that awful Dumbflat that came on the trike from the factory. Those three changes have made a world of difference. I also installed a Mustang 76033 touring seat w/backrest kit. Trike has over 15k miles now since it rolled off the dealer floor in May. Also installed the floorboard spacer kit from DK Customs.

 

[Capt.Bob]

I have the same issue at 5'5". In addition to the DK comfort lift kit, I had the Batwing reach bars installed. HD p/n 56176-08 No cable changes were needed. I also had the Avon trike specific front tire installed after I wore out that awful Dumbflat that came on the trike from the factory. Those three changes have made a world of difference. I also installed a Mustang 76033 touring seat w/backrest kit. Trike has over 15k miles now since it rolled off the dealer floor in May. Also installed the floorboard spacer kit from DK Customs.

Mike, What is the specific size of your Avon Cobra trike specific front tire that you put on your 2016 TGU? This is the reported spec'd size from Harley for the front OEM tire: MT90B16 72H

Thanks

 

[MikeyTX]

Identical

Same. http://www.avonmoto.com/products/cruiser-touring-custom/cobra-trike

 

[Capt.Bob]

Same. http://www.avonmoto.com/products/cruiser-touring-custom/cobra-trike

Mike, I don't know much about tire size issues but the factory Service Index spec is 72H and not 74H which is what Avon is making. Could someone explain to me if there is much of a difference and what that difference is?

Great for Google. The answer is: the higher the number, the greater the load capability. The factory spec tire has a rated load capacity of 783 pounds whereas the 74 spec which is a higher number translates into a 827 pound capacity which suggests that the Avon is built to carry a heavier load.

The final question I would have is that I keep hearing all kinds of mixed reviews on the Avon Cobra with some saying that it has to be pumped up to 40+ psi to work well. It has seemed to me like a moving target (pun intended given the reports of front-end wandering with the Avon)? Mike, any tips you may have on what psi seems to work best would be appreciated and any specifics on why you think this tire is superior to OEM would be greatly appreciated.

 

[MikeyTX]

I've not seen those reports and, unless they come from someone with expertise in the tire industry, I would take them with a grain of salt. Much like the google or tripadvisor reviews I read on the web as pertain to various hotels. All I know is that the tire has performed admirably since installed before my last sojourn to the Pacific northwest. The last set of numbers by the way is the load rating I believe and the letter is the speed rating. I am running the factory psi. Keep in mind that the oem tire wears out in the center because it's designed for use on a two wheel motorcycle which sucks swamp water when installed on a trike. We steer differently thus need a tire that won't wear out the center. You don't see Harley giving you a 15k wear guarantee as does Avon.

 

[PosseRider]

Phyllis. I just got a 2016 TriGlide about 5 weeks ago. I had the bars from a "LOW' installed as part of sale agreement (good reach for short people). 2 weeks later I installed the "Comfort Lift" kit & what a difference in handling. I also have found many HD dealers that will not work on conversions. If you have one that will, that's great. Not good for me as all my riding is far away. In the next 3 weeks I will already have over 6000 miles on my Trike. I have been riding for 60 yrs and all bikes have their flaws and good points. But, I prefer HD because of the huge dealer network. If you only ride around home, I guess any local shops will help you. I am usually VERY far from home. Whatever you end up deciding on RIDE IT LIKE YOU STOLE IT and have fun. I started riding at age 12 & 60 yrs later I still have FUN.

 

[typy01]

Love My 2016 Tri-Glide

I have found my 2016 trike so much better than the 2012 I had. I like the touch screen, and enjoy all its additional amenities. I find the handlebars to be about 2 inches too short and low, wish Harley would change this since every Harley I have ever owned were like this, I will change these as soon as I can.

I have the same issue at 5'5". In addition to the DK comfort lift kit, I had the Batwing reach bars installed. H D p/n 56176-08 No cable changes were needed. I also had the Avon trike specific front tire installed after I wore out that awful Dumbflat that came on the trike from the factory. Those three changes have made a world of difference. I also installed a Mustang 76033 touring seat w/backrest kit. Trike has over 15k miles now since it rolled off the dealer floor in May. Also installed the floorboard spacer kit from DK Customs.

 

[2234ME]

Handling

IMHO people praise the way the tri glides handle because that is all they have ridden. I recently rented the 2016 Tri-Glide I put 400+ miles on it and was glad to be back on my Road King Motortrike conversion. My trike is much lighter handled cornered and performed better. Granted I don't have all the bells and whistles ( auto pilot, reclining,heated massage seat) LOL. I will give credit where credit is due The Tri-Glide was comfortable if it wasn't for the occasional bug in the teeth I felt like I was on a rolling sofa.

 

[MikeyTX]

Obvious you haven't ridden a Tri that has been set up correctly. If you'd have, I doubt you'd enjoy going back on your stripper. I am about to leave on the third 4k plus trip this summer. When one averages 5 to 6 hundred miles a day as I do, cruise control and a radio are a must. The same with a good touring seat, correct grips and, handle bars.

 

[bobbyhit]

Had a Spyder

Just traded Can Am Spyder for HD Freewheeler. Love the ride and handling of the Freewheeler
Had the Spyder for a year. It was OK but wandered more on the roadway and I didn't care for the high rpm wine at 70 to 75 mph. If you like the sound of crotch rockets you will like the Spyder. On long rides I found it very irritating. Good luck. Be safe.

 

[GARYD]

Just traded Can Am Spyder for HD Freewheeler. Love the ride and handling of the Freewheeler
Had the Spyder for a year. It was OK but wandered more on the roadway and I didn't care for the high rpm wine at 70 to 75 mph. If you like the sound of crotch rockets you will like the Spyder. On long rides I found it very irritating. Good luck. Be safe.

And from your viewpoint, now you feel like you're on a motorcycle because there is only one wheel in front of you instead of 2 like an ATV.

There are just too many anti motorcycle issues to riding a Spyder vs a TG for me to even consider one.

 

[Trailridr]

2012 Tri Glide

I bought a 2012 last year, and other than the heat off of the cat on the right side, I have absolutely no complaints. It's bone stock except for a lift kit. As with anything I suppose you run what you've got and learn it's idiosyncrasies, and enjoy it. I will however be looking at the the '14 brake systems since according to this forum they are supposed to be better.

 

[Trailridr]

OK, I stand corrected. I must have been looking at an older or aftermarket differential schematic. I can't find one on the part # you referred to. I called the local Harley service department and they said if you jack up the rear end, turn one wheel, the other will rotate the opposite direction. I am curious, if you put it in gear (jacked up), can you stop one wheel from rotating as in a car? I haven't tried either yet.
I know this is getting too technical for most of the readers, but the bottom line is: Trikes are harder to turn than bikes. And the issues of ride & turning I have previously stated remain the same, regardless.
FYI, I have ridden many 3-wheel & 4-wheel ATVs with solid axles and they are difficult to turn as well.
And if you think you can not roll a Harley Trike, you are misleading the readers! Granted you have to really push it, but I have lifted the inside tire off the ground. I actually take corners at higher speeds with the trike than on my soft-tail because of not worrying about slide-outs due to loose gravel or wet surfaces.

Yes you can rotate one wheel with the other stationary. I did this with one wheel off the ground on a jack. If it was a solid rear axle this wouldn't have been possible. In other words - a dogleg open diff.

 

[tbear]

heat relief

I bought a 2012 last year, and other than the heat off of the cat on the right side, I have absolutely no complaints. It's bone stock except for a lift kit. As with anything I suppose you run what you've got and learn it's idiosyncrasies, and enjoy it. I will however be looking at the the '14 brake systems since according to this forum they are supposed to be better.

I took some advice from the DK people and took off the LHS motor heat guard and it did make a difference in relieving the heat from my right leg and probably cooling the motor more effeciently.:Coffee:

 

[Casper]

First off, opinions are like....well you know the rest of that.
ive owned three GW trikes and on my 3rd Tri Glide.
i really can't anything bad about the wing except the seating position and foot placement. It killed my knees and hips, the foor placement is not comfortable for me, me being the optimum word. Other than that all of them ran and handled fine.
as for the Tri Glides owned a 10, 14 and now a 16. Each one gets better. I didn't like the gearing on the 10, it was geared to high and suffered in the mountains. The 14 and the new 16 are great.
A disclamer: I'm a gadget guy! Love the new technology, for that r as on I would get a 14 or newer TG. It has the boom audio, gps, can flash cards he passing lamps to stay on with high beams, better brakes. Also have the CB radio installed and I have satellite radio, love it.
on ours I have installed the CB, XM radio, and Krome Werks 2+2 narrow sweepers, backrest, Avon grips, chrome extras to suit us. A DK comfort lift will be next.

yes, test ride all you can, take what others say with a grain of salt....make you own mind up to what suits you!

 

[GARYD]

I agree with the '14 being better then past TG's The only thing I had problems with, and still do, is the GPS (it's a POS compared to my Zumo 660 which I kept, thank god). On the other hand, I do not like the linked brakes. I don't like them being connected - I want to have complete control of the brake system not some mechanical gadget. That's just me.

H-D really ticked me off having to pay $800+ to have the CB put back on. That really sucked. :gah:

But that's Harley = take things off and charge more.

Yes, I've had one wheel up in the air also - once. Don't ever want to do it again - Damn texting woman. :AGGHH:

 

[DK Custom Products]

I agree with the '14 being better then past TG's The only thing I had problems with, and still do, is the GPS (it's a POS compared to my Zumo 660 which I kept, thank god). On the other hand, I do not like the linked brakes. I don't like them being connected - I want to have complete control of the brake system not some mechanical gadget. That's just me.

H-D really ticked me off having to pay $800+ to have the CB put back on. That really sucked. :gah:

But that's Harley = take things off and charge more.

Yes, I've had one wheel up in the air also - once. Don't ever want to do it again - Damn texting woman. :AGGHH:

Gary...

I've only used 1 GPS in my life, the one that came on my '14 TG. Had an interesting experience with it about a month ago. Was riding out to Woodstock, GA, taking the backroads route.

The GPS was telling me where to turn and suddenly it was telling me "route recalculation". The screen showed me traveling thru fields, instead of on the road. I was clearly on a larger 4 lane road, and I could see that road on the screen, but the screen was showing me Not on that road.

I stopped and turned everything off to reset the computer, but when it came back on it was still totally confused. I just ignored it and about 20 miles later it started acting right again.

I thought maybe some satellites were having problems....BUT, when I returned home via the same route, the same thing happened again. About a 25 mile stretch where the GPS had no idea where I was. lol

I agree with you...I like the unlinked brakes better, but I know why HD did it. Folks were not using their front brakes, and by linking them it forces use of the front brakes.

Kevin

 

[paws]

Maybe you inadvertantly travelled through a stretch of The Twighlight Zone ..... LOL!! :xszpv:

 

[GARYD]

Kevin, that's exactly what happens to me - AND - you would think that the H-D GPS would know where all the H-D dealers are - WRONG!!! I bet on all my trips the dealer locations are wrong about 30% of the time. Even one of my local dealerships is portrayed as being in the middle of I294 5 miles away from the correct location. :AGGHH:

I've had the GPS unit completely stop working a couple times. After turning the trike off and then on after 10 minutes , it worked again.

I can load 50 destinations into my Zumo 660 in the same time it would take me to put in about 8 destinations in the H-D unit.

I don't know how much better it is on the '16's - hopefully a lot better.

Kevin, don't try a Garmin Zumo GPS - you will be completely amazed and buy one immediately.

 

[geezerglide11441]

Kevin, that's exactly what happens to me - AND - you would think that the H-D GPS would know where all the H-D dealers are - WRONG!!! I bet on all my trips the dealer locations are wrong about 30% of the time. Even one of my local dealerships is portrayed as being in the middle of I294 5 miles away from the correct location. :AGGHH:

I've had the GPS unit completely stop working a couple times. After turning the trike off and then on after 10 minutes , it worked again.

I can load 50 destinations into my Zumo 660 in the same time it would take me to put in about 8 destinations in the H-D unit.

I don't know how much better it is on the '16's - hopefully a lot better.

Kevin, don't try a Garmin Zumo GPS - you will be completely amazed and buy one immediately.

:Agree: 100% - I have had my 660 Zumo since about 2010 and it is an awesome (expensive) unit.

Take care, ride safe!!

Roger