Can the S3 steer like a sportsbike?

[zmann]

Hi all,
I'm looking for suggestions on how to improve the steering/handling on my S3. Something is wrong with my setup. I've ridden 10 different bikes (mostly sportsbikes) in the last few days and it's painful to admit it but my S3 is quite possibly the worst of the bunch with regards to steering. I'd like it to be more neutral, "flickable", stable in turns, etc. Currently it pushes back rather than settling into turns and it's bouncy while leaned over at speed. Is it possible for this streetfighter to steer/handle more like a sportsbike? It's got the same rake angle as the new 675 which is a canyon-carving machine. Nearly the same trail. It's got fully adjustable suspension. I've added clip-ons. For those that want to tell me that it's not a sportsbike, maybe just humor me and explain what one would have to change to make it steer like a sportsbike, if possible? My 45K mile sports-tourer with nearly useless suspension is handling better that my S3, which is very sad.
Thanks,
Zohar

[cheapbastard]

whoa dude, sounds like you've got something wrong! How many miles are on your bike, and did you buy it new??? The S3 is a mean handling machine, and I came from 11 years of riding pure sportbikes! My last 2 being a 99 R1 and a 02 R1 right before my S3. Mine handles freak'n awesome, and I've done nothing. Do you know how to set your sag? If so, I would recommend that 1st. Not trying to be nosy, but how much do you weigh? The stock suspension settings are usually set up for a 175lb rider. Check into that, someting ain't right!

[corners]

Check your tire pressure... I know it sounds stupid, but it can make a bike handle like *****. I run 34psi in the rear and 32psi up front.

My triple handles like a dream. Even better than my 01 GSXR 750.

[Diego]

> Currently it pushes back rather than settling into turns and it's bouncy while leaned over at speed.

Wow, sorry to hear that. It sure doesn't sound like any S3 I know!

The Triple is never going to feel exactly like a lighter and skinnier bike, of course, but it is eminently flickable anyway...and sure footed.

Check those tires and the suspension settings, of course, but I kind of think a visit to the shop may be in order.


[ This message was edited by: Diego on 2006-05-09 23:27 ]

[kuhlka]

Clip-ons? You're going to have ****e handling at slow speeds with those compared to handlebars. My ultra-low renthals are simply beautiful on my 03. Sounds like your tire pressures are too low, your riding style is fubar, or some other mechanical thing is goofed.

[VB-SP3-2005]

1. Suspension dialed in - You need to get the suspension dialed into your weight and riding style and roads. I had a similar issue with it being a bit too bounce compared to my 955i and the mechanic I use tweeked the rebound . Firm handling bigger grins

2. Ridding possion - sports bikes force you weight over the friont tyre. This game me more feel and confidence. When I went to the trip I was leaning back more the front felt floaty and I was not as tight on corners. You have to focus on leaning forward and getting weight on the front. The wide bars height make the speed triple more comfortable and I am less fateigued that on a sports bike. I am thinking of dropping the bar and inch or two to give me more front feel. I don't want to go to clip ons just yet


4. Tyre pressure - changes with temp and riding . Always check the tyres. Find on the 955I it did not change much on my triple I need to check more regualrly and before I do much km and the tyres warm up.

[rudebwoy85]

Clip-ons..aint nothing wrong with clip-ons. Mine handles superbly at low and high speeds with 'em.

[xSpeed3x]

I have to say something"s wrong also. I just went riding with some buddys last weekend and one of my friends has a new R6. He asked to take mine for a spin so we swapped for a few twisties. Even he (which is a hardcore sportbiker) said he liked the leverage of the handlebars and the frontend feel of the S3 going into tight turns. I don't know about your bike but mine handles just fine (especially with the new powers on it).

[13]

from zman...
...maybe just humor me...

Not to be obtuse, I was gonna say something like - here's humor: check yur suspension, then check yur head. Go sell Yamaha's somewhere else...

But yours may be a sincere query, and I apologize if it is. So I'll just say, check yur suspension, then check yur head-bearings. Don't tell Yamaha or else.

Like R1's btw, but wouldn't own 1... Hayabusa, that's different (wouldn't part with Speedy T tho). Speed kills.

[TrackerOldGuy]

I would agree with everyone ( even Cheapster )
that something is wrong.

( what color is the bike :wink: )