I have seen a few comments about the 6 degree rake front end. Is this a factory thing? If so do all trikes have it, if not, when did they start it. Looking at a 2004 trike, how can I tell if it has it?
I have seen a few comments about the 6 degree rake front end. Is this a factory thing? If so do all trikes have it, if not, when did they start it. Looking at a 2004 trike, how can I tell if it has it?
It is not added to all trikes ... although most conversions have some rake. The additional rake makes it easier to steer.
If you look at the gap between the front wheel and the lower cowl and compare that to a stock wing, you will be able to tell if it's got some additional rake added. I don't know if there is anyway to tell how much rake has been added. It may be stamped on the triple trees, but, I'm not sure they do that. There are formulas to measure the actual trail and rake of a trike, but, they are way above my pay grade. Do a search for rake and trail and you'll find lots of info.
I can't imagine anyone triking a Goldwing without at least some additional rake being added, but, I suppose it could happen. The rake kits are an additional expense.
The advent of longer wheel-based conversions and Independent Suspension of these conversions has made the E-Z Steer, or raked triple tree, a needed and desired upgrade. Very popular now on just about all conversions.
Jim Murphy
EX-Lehman & Champion Dealer Owner Operator
Iron Butt Rider 2001
WHEN HELP IS OFFERED, A SIMPLE "THANK YOU" IS APPRECIATED.
Christian Motorcyclist Association #64488
Patriot Guard
Volunteer Fire/Rescue/EMT/Captain
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The first Honda Valkyrie trike we test rode, was not raked.
It was a workout to steer it.
My current Valkyrie trike probably has a little too much rake,
but I am not complaining.
It steers like a dream
The woods are lovely, dark, and deep,
But I have promises to keep,
And miles to go before I sleep,
And miles to go before I sleep.
Roadsmith trikes comes with a 5.5% rake.....Mine steers like a champ!
Ronnie
CSC,Roadsmith,Hannigan are considered longer wheelbase.Champion,Lehman,DFT,Motortrike are shorter wheelbase.Basically the short wheelbase trikes trikes have the same or almost same wheelbase as the stock 2 wheeler had.
Do not argue with an idiot.He will drag you down to his level and beat you with experience.
Its dog eat dog world and i'm wearing milkbone underwear.
1989 GL1500 Goldwing (SOLD)
2006 GL1800 CSC
Im currently riding a champion trike kit on a honda vtx 1800c with an 8 degree rake and it handles great. No problems
Christian Motorcyclist Association #64488
Patriot Guard
Volunteer Fire/Rescue/EMT/Captain
Was a LEO
Part time Corrections Officer