Changed position of handle bars - bike steers much better! Why?

[8Track]

Hi all,

I've had my Valk for 2+ years now and have on longer trips found the position of the bars was causing me to reach forward a bit too much, resulting in an ache between my shoulders.

Yesterday I thought I would experiment with rolling the bars in the risers to try and reduce the reach. The original poisiton of the bars had their upright sections following the same line as the forks when viewed side on to the bike. I rolled the bars down towards the tank somewhat and went for a ride.

I found it to be more comfortable which was what I was aiming for. However, I also found the bike now needs a lot less input from me to tip into turns and maintain its line through them. Its become easier and more intuitive to steer.

Could anyone shed any light on why its become easier to steer, and would anyone know at what angle the bars were set from the factory?

Many thanks,

Mark

[Gavin_Sons]

I bet you have more leverage now. 

[8Track]

Thanks,

I kind of figured there must be more leverage, but how? The bars aren't longer or wider, same as always, just positioned a little differently. If there is more leverage, how did it happen? what's the physics of it?

Thanks,

Mark

[tank_post142]

I would assume that you tipped them back so the grips are now closer to 90 degrees from the pivot of the neck bearings, giving you more leverage by placing the grips further from the center of pivot.

[8Track]

I would assume that you tipped them back so the grips are now closer to 90 degrees from the pivot of the neck bearings, giving you more leverage by placing the grips further from the center of pivot.

By Jove - I think you've got it! Just like a post-hole digger. The wider the grip the easier it is to turn!

So where would have the bars originally been set at the factory? Probably not in a straight line with the forks based on what I have observed.

[Michvalk]

I think everyone has a position that is more comfortable. That's why the bars are adjustable. I assume there was a position that was "factory", but, they weren't meant to be left in that position.

[specialdose]

Well I just went for a test ride after the adjustment...I have the shortest riser extensions already. I only went 20miles. I definitely think it makes the Gurl more agile at crawling speeds. I will test the cruising comfort Wed. with a 200mile ride... Why did I not think of something so simple ? ? That is why I am glad to be a part of this eclectic family.

[98pacecar]

Deuce risers,, did it fer me.....   

Course, my arms ain't,,,,, very long...   

[salty1]

I would assume that you tipped them back so the grips are now closer to 90 degrees from the pivot of the neck bearings, giving you more leverage by placing the grips further from the center of pivot.

By Jove - I think you've got it! Just like a post-hole digger. The wider the grip the easier it is to turn!

So where would have the bars originally been set at the factory? Probably not in a straight line with the forks based on what I have observed.

There is a factory dimple in the bars that would normally be lined up with the crack where the riser cap meets the riser. How far above or below that seam did you position your bars? Use the dimple as your reference point.

[HayHauler]

I don't know the proper position, but I know that to me, if the bars are raised, I can't control the bike near as well as when they are lower.  My $.01875. 

Hay
Jimmyt

[pouch]

reaching up to bars is a bad idea . there is a need to be on top of them to be comfortable.unless you are a real big guy. then until you get old it wont matter. pouch