What degree rake is right?

[Bigredtrike]

I have a 2004 Goldwing Roadsmith tike that was just triked in September. I love it an can easily handle it (6'4" 240lb) However, I want to rake it to make it easy for my wife to ride also. What degree rake would anyone suggest and why? From other comments it will feel like power steering to me a well.
Thanks

 

[don graham]

I have an 07 GW with a CSC kit. I have the 4.5 rake and it handles very well for me. Not too easy but just enough that I'm pretty comfortable on the hwy or the rural roads.

 

[Nana]

Look on the right near the bottom of the list of sponsor banners for "Zook's Rake Kits". Contact Bazooka by PM or by phone (334) 648-0157 for the best deal on the rake kit you need.

 

[Gold Rush]

Yup -- What Nana said... + + +

Randy (Zook) has a very good handle on rake and trail theory so your best bet is to go straight to the horse's mouth for advise and hardware. I've installed three rake kits from him and every one was perfect!! ThumbUp ThumbUp ThumbUp

Before I raked my '06 someone told me it was like adding power steering to a dump truck. Pretty good comparison I'm thinking... You will not regret it for sure.

 

[jtilmon]

BigRed - anywhere from 4.5 to 6 degree is pretty much standard. I have 08 Goldwing / Roadsmith and have 6 degree and it steers great. my installer recommended the 6 deg. and i'm extremely happy with it.

Hope that helps.
jt

 

[Cycleguy]

The right rake depends on how long and wide your trike wheels are placed, and your personal preference. Larger rakes are easier to steer and less stable. They go better on trikes with long wheelbases and large track widths, two things which promote stability.

When looking at people's opinions, always note what trike they have, the wheelbases and track widths are often very different. Handlebar risers can make a real difference in providing easier steering. Front tire choice counts, too.

I have a short and narrow (for a GL1800) DFT, with risers, and a BT-45. The 4.5 works fine, and I'd be leery of putting a 6 on it.

 

[Old Goat]

I have a 1993 goldwing with a CSC conversion and has a 6 degree rake the only thing to me it that it steres so easy that at times when I get off my bike and get on the trike I have to be very carfull as it is what I call "TWITCHY" but after 15 minutes of driving I am use to it! Hope this helps with your descision I think 4.5 would be plenty. but that is just my opinion!!!!