in depth steering damper question . . .

[desmo796]

Is a dampers function based on weight and geometry of the bike? Could one theoretically adapt a damper from one bike to another if the bikes share common design/handling characteristics?
Does mass moment play into this as well, that is, the rotational weight of the steering head/forks?

I'm aware of the importance of suspension set up and dialing that in therefore not needing a SD. Don't want to get into that, just focus on the original question.

[Hazzbin]

Originally Posted by desmo796

Is a dampers function based on weight and geometry of the bike? Could one theoretically adapt a damper from one bike to another if the bikes share common design/handling characteristics?
Does mass moment play into this as well, that is, the rotational weight of the steering head/forks?

I'm aware of the importance of suspension set up and dialing that in therefore not needing a SD. Don't want to get into that, just focus on the original question.

The necessity for a damper may have something to do with the weight and geometry of a bike but the damper itself is purely that, a damper which restricts the ease with which the steering can be turned. When the front forks get into whatever you want to call it, a head shake, wobble or tank slapper, the damper keeps it from oscillating back and forth the same way a shock absorber keeps a wheel from bouncing up and down after spring compression.

The level of adjustment needed on a steering damper is from a number of things, which include both the handling characteristics of the bike and what the rider feels and/or likes. As an example, I don't like to feel the damper, so I turn mine down for riding around town at low speed and crank it up when I'm pushing harder, as I only feel it at low speed. If you have a damper with enough adjustment you'll be able to cover just about any situation.

You could use anything if you're comfortable with the rate of damping, they don't have to share handling characteristics. Hell, pluck a shock absorber off of a Ford F-150 and find a way to mount it if you like that much damping and don't mind the ugly-ass install.

As far as mass moment, the real rotational weight in the front end of a bike are the front tire and wheel, which has a gyroscopic effect and should help to keep the front end stable. There's still a matter of mass moment as you call it because the damper will be affected by the mass of the forks as they attempt to shake in a bad situation.

[desmo796]

good synopsis. I am researching options if the need arises, that I can add a low budget system if needed after tuning the front suspension. wanted to get some other opinions.

[NikMusolino]

I am entirely certain the Scott's Damper that I have installed prevented a crash when I went off the course at Fontana a few weeks ago. It was a fast chicane which I didn't scrub enough speed off for, and rode straight across the grass. I got a nasty shake, but remained upright. I think the difference was in the damper, and Mi desert-riding skills... All high-powered motorcycles should have a steering damper.

[desmo796]

Originally Posted by NikMusolino

I am entirely certain the Scott's Damper that I have installed prevented a crash when I went off the course at Fontana a few weeks ago. It was a fast chicane which I didn't scrub enough speed off for, and rode straight across the grass. I got a nasty shake, but remained upright. I think the difference was in the damper, and Mi desert-riding skills... All high-powered motorcycles should have a steering damper.

I agree on all counts, glad you're alright.