98 Fatboy feels unstable at all speeds - Harley Davidson Forums: Harley Davidson Motorcycle Forum

Autotec · 07-09-2009, 09:11 PM

I searched the Forums, but I couldn't find anything.

My 98 Fatboy tends to wander at all speeds. At first I thought it was just me getting use to the bike, but I'm starting to think it's a problem. Just curious if anybody has ever ran into a issue like this.

Thanks in advance,

ironhead bobber · 07-09-2009, 09:46 PM

check your tires for uneven wear...let us know what you find, that will help in trying to diagnose your issue

tibadoe · 07-09-2009, 09:55 PM

Double check your tire pressure also. If its low on either or both tires, that will cause it to wander. I would use what is recommended in the owners manual. Also check to make sure that the tire size is the same that is recommended in the owners manual.

Autotec · 07-09-2009, 11:09 PM

Both front and rear tires are new. ( the HD Dunlops ) I think I have 1500 miles on them. And they are the factory size. Tire pressure is ok.

**Dave63** · 07-09-2009, 11:10 PM

I don't even know where to start with this question, and a 11 year old bike.

Tire pressure.
Tire wear.
Tire brand.
suspension settings.
Fork oil.
Fork springs.
Stem bearing adjustment.
Stem bearing wear.
Wheel alignment.
Fork alighment.
Eye exam.
Corrective lenses.
Judgement.
Seat alignment.
Underawear adjustment.....

There's so much more information needed for a Q like this....it's insane.

ironhead bobber · 07-09-2009, 11:15 PM

stem bearing wear was gonna be my next thought, but wanted to know about tire wear first as a wheel could be out of adjustment........wasn't even curious about underwear fitment, lol

Autotec · 07-09-2009, 11:25 PM

Underwear is pretty good. Not to tight or loose.

I figured it might be a tough topic to bring up here. Looking at Dave's list, i guess I have a bunch of things to check. I was just hoping for a common issue with these bikes.

It might still be me, who knows.

Justin

ironhead bobber · 07-09-2009, 11:27 PM

how long have you been riding that bike? BTW, I have a 98 fatboy as well, so I am somewhat familliar with the bike

ironhead bobber · 07-09-2009, 11:31 PM

just looked at your pics....do yourself a favor, get a different seat and ditch the windscreen, you will be amazed my the difference
and if you have a lot of high (I mean high) wind gusts where you ride, get spoked wheels

Autotec · 07-09-2009, 11:33 PM

For about 2 months, 1500 miles. It's been like this since I bought it, but I figured it was me getting use to a bike that is twice as heavy as what I had. ( sport bike ) Or I thought it was a normal trait for this bike.

Riding to work this afternoon it just got on my nerves. I just cannot keep it in a straight line. Can you have a alignment done on a motorcycle? I've never had one done on any other one, but there is always a first time.