Why a steering dampner? - Ducati.ms

08hyper · Apr 15th, 2008, 1:30 am

I'm wondering why some of us want some sort of steering dampener, I have about 4000mi now, 25+ canyon runs, and a track day, I'm still not convinced I NEED one, I have NEVER encountered head shake, or any wobble at any speeds, either ON or OFF the gas, so why are some of you getting or have a steering stabilizer? besides looking cool?

Aloha Alex

parkcrf · Apr 15th, 2008, 1:35 am

It sounds like you may not need one. The Hyper, like dirtbikes, has a steep angle that can make the front end twitchy. If the suspension is dialed properly it may not need it but unlike a bike like a Harley with a gradual angle this bike is more prone to twitchy handling

08hyper · Apr 15th, 2008, 1:47 am

Quote:

Originally Posted by parkcrf

It sounds like you may not need one. The Hyper, like dirtbikes, has a steep angle that can make the front end twitchy. If the suspension is dialed properly it may not need it but unlike a bike like a Harley with a gradual angle this bike is more prone to twitchy handling

What were you doing when your bike's handling became "twitchy?" Alex

**st2lemans** · Apr 15th, 2008, 1:56 am

I almost crashed an HM1100S during a test ride because it got severe headshike. I hit a bump while braking, which resulted in my applying more pressure than desired, locking the front wheel briefly and getting severe headshake. Luckily I was able to ride it out.

Tom

**desmoworks** · Apr 15th, 2008, 9:07 am

I never felt I needed one either - no problems at all on the track.

dukepilot · Apr 15th, 2008, 9:16 am

I'm not sure that I need one but I do want to try one out. I grew up riding bikes that handled like crap like the H2 Kawasaki so a little headshake is no big deal.

Ferrell75002 · Apr 15th, 2008, 9:49 am

My hyper got stolen, so if anyone is interested in the dp damper let me know. I have one boxed up never been open.
F-

Brainfry · Apr 15th, 2008, 10:56 am

PM sent.

b

Jeff4510 · Apr 15th, 2008, 11:28 am

I have ridden baja a lot and tight single track in oregon and I absolutely NEEDED a damper for both. When I first rode the Hyper It felt too twitchy hence I bought a damper.

gp637 · Apr 15th, 2008, 12:29 pm

I crashed an SXV 550 about a year ago when I put down a 5th gear wheelie at about 80 mph. I had the handlebars crossed up a bit and it went inot a pretty violent tank slapper. No doubt that if I had a steering damper, it would of corrected the tank slapper.

From that point on, I will install a damper on every bike that I own......or at least every bike that I plan on doing 5th gear wheelies with.

There are reasons for the damper, but that crash was enough to convince me.