Headshake? On a GS500? o_O

[Eisenfaust]

So, in the last month or so I've been working on my cornering (The roads are actually *dry*, yay!). Great fun, cant get enough.

Thing is, I'm getting what *feels* like headshake out of the GS.

I dont really see how this is possible, I didnt think the GS had enough power to unload the front wheel (combined with the appropriate steering geometry) to the point where the bars would start wagging.

Either way, in high speed corners (70mph+), my bars start wagging a good two or three inches (measured at the bar-ends), and the whole bike starts shaking. I maintain a light grip on the bars at all times, so the front end can do its own thing... but this is kind of disconcerting. I'm not even leaned over that far.

My suspension is in good repair, the wheels are all aligned (bike tracks perfectly), my steering head bearings are good.... my tires are getting old, but theyre not flatspotted, cupped, lopsided, etc. Happens in left turns, right turns, on smooth pavement, on rough pavement... you name it. Not a problem in turns with slower (35-50mph) entry though. Just higher speed stuff.

Is this just a high-speed trait of the GS? Am I really pushing it that hard? I mean, I've never dragged a peg or anything (though I think I'm getting close on a few familiar corners).... I cant possibly be getting to the limits of the bike's handling.... o_O

Either way, its kind of... well, not scary, since I know the cure for headshake is just to let it be and not strongarm the bike, but feeling the whole bike shimmy back and forth under me isnt exactly confidence inspiring.

Perhaps those who have more experience with the outer edges of the GS's handling dynamics could tell me if this is normal? Pantablo? Bob?

[Roadstergal]

Are you leaning forward over the tank to front-weight the bike?

[Eisenfaust]

Body weight is low and forward over the bars. That was the very first thing I tried after the first time it happened. Helped a little, but not significantly.

I generally support my body with my legs (squeezing the tank, or locking a knee against it, if I'm shifting my weight inside a little), then lean forward to keep weight forward.

*shrug*

[jake42]

i've experience what you describe a few times up around 70-75.  Doesn't happen all the time though.  My  biggest complaint is that i get headshake between 45-55. It 's not real noticeable unless i take a hand (or two) off the bars at those speeds.  I've checked everything that you mention and I still get it.

Jake

[cernunos]

The White Owl was doing that a few weeks back. I re-balanced the tires and it went away. But I don't know if that was it or not because I also added about 3-5 psi in each tire. Love the mild and meek GS, Africa (birth of civilization), and this forum.

C.......