I finally got my bike out on the freeway tonight and i started feeling like the bike was wobbling a bit above 75 mph. Anybody have any idea what i can do to fix that? I don't know much about bikes yet and mine is an 04 GS500F. My instincts tell me its the suspension? (read something about that in a magazine). I'm a pretty big guy too...
If it is the suspension, can i tighten it myself? Any suggestions out there?
You can adjust the rear shock by turning the preload adjuster on the bottom.
The tool should be in the tool kit. Set the shock on the highest number (usually 7).
Also make sure the tires are inflated properly.
With the fairing, it could also be wind buffeting. Try moving your body toward the rear and see if it helps any. :dunno:
any idea how i can get a tool kit? :( I got my bike used and didn't get one...
your bike didnt have the tool kit under the seat? dealer is likely only place to get a replacement and you cant do the shock preload adjustment without the special tool. thats really the only one you need from the tool kit.
However, before you jump to conclusions and start fiddling with the bike, take it one step at a time. This your first bike? probably. First freeway ride? sounds like it.
What is probably happening is that you are too stiff and holding on to the handlebars too tightly. the wind hitting your torso, shoulders and arms are causing you to telegraph that into your handlebars because you're too tense. its normal to be that tense when you're starting out, especially first time on the freeway. Try relaxing before you start fiddling. next time it happens very consciously relax your arms, waving your elbows like a chicken...if you can do that it means you're relaxed.
you were right on both questions... i was just outside with my flashlight trying to find the adjuster to no avail... I will take your advice while i ride tomorrow and see if i'm just too tense. I'll go to the dealer and ask about a manual and a tool kit anyway cause i'm sure i'll need it eventually. GOD DAMN I LOVE RIDING THAT THING!!
As pantablo says, your arms and shoulders should not be bearing any weight. I do the fingertips instead of the chicken - I relax my grip until only my fingertips are on the bars, which ensures I'm not bearing weight on my shoulders and arms.
And check your tire pressures.
Quote from: vtmdgI'll go to the dealer and ask about a manual and a tool kit anyway cause i'm sure i'll need it eventually.
ALWAYS go to the dealer armed with as much knowledge as you can gather in advance. For example, what's a ballpark price for the toolkit assembly?
To get some idea, go to the
GS500 Fiche Catalogs page and check the prices advertised by all of the vendors listed there. (Find items 10, 11 and 12 on the 2004 "Rear Fender" page on each vendor's site. Item 11 is the shock adjuster tool that you need, but there is an extender handle in the toolkit that goes along with it.) You may already have item 12, a rubber strap with metal rings on each end that holds the toolkit in place.