Triumphrat

blacktothebonne · 06-16-2005

Today i experienced something completely new.While i was cruising in one of the newest and best highways in greece, the the attica road, i felt for a moment like i was ice skating.
The wind was blowing very strongly sometimes and while i was turning right towards the exit of the highway the whole bike slipped to the right, like someone pushed it very strongly. No it was nt god. It was the wind. I must admit i was really scared for a moment, but i did nt lose my balance because both wheels moved to the right, the whole motorcycle just slipped. I cant explain this. The bonneville is heavy and really steady, but maybe the sides are too vertical and the wind does nt pass through. Or is it the tires? I must say i dont trust the stock tires the hot days. They seem to respond very well on wet roads but when the temprature is high and the asphalt is hot they slip more easily.Maybe the bike is reminding me of its origin. Its an english bike not a mediterranean.

Clifford · 06-16-2005

Hi BlackToTheBone,

I know exactly what you are talking about. I've experienced the same sensation when the wind is blowing really hard. If you could measure the friction and slippage at the tires, I think you would find they are not really sliding, rather, they are tracking in the direction the wind is blowing. Nevertheless, it is very disconcerting to have this happen, I've been pushed nearly across an entire lane during heavy wind. I would recommend hunkering down over the tank in such conditions and concentrating on staying to the windward side of the lane, that way if you are pushed hard you will still end up in your own lane. Be careful and best of luck!

Cheers!

bosoxrider · 06-16-2005

Thanks for the tip. Another reminder to stay alert.

kwik · 06-17-2005

I've had the same problem. I would rather ride in the rain than in the wind.

asphyx9 · 06-17-2005

When I am riding with a heavy side wind, I too feel the sensation that the bike is sliding from side to side. Like Clifford said, I am sure it is not actually slipping, but it sure darn feels like it!

There are times when the wind is blowing in gusts, and it makes my Thrux feel like it has a rear flat tire. So I will take a quick glance to make sure, and ask my wife if she notices my tire being low or something. You figure I would learn, but nope, I still think I have a flat when the wind is blowing my around all weird like.

blacktothebonne · 06-17-2005

Thanx for the tip cliff!

d2mini · 06-17-2005

Yup, and what's even scarier is when you feel the same thing while doing 35mph downhill on a road bicycle with those skinny tires (with 120psi) and wearing nothing but skin tight shorts/shirt.