Handling Makeover

[jimmi707]

Calling all super techs – how to improve front end grip. I am with my current bike which suffers from shocking front end traction. In even in moderate turns traction is lost as the front wheel washes out sending the bike and myself in opposite directions. Riding the edge of traction produces severe under steer – uncool on hi speed fire breaks. I don’t think it is the tires because even when climbing in the seat the front is nervous and struggles to maintain a line.

In general I feel the bikes riding posture is rather upright with a lofty cockpit on 100mm forks, a 2inch rise bar and 80-odd mm stem with slight rise. Head tube angle is a claimed 71 degrees. It could be and I’m hoping, the dicky Manitou fork which has more flex than a Mr Universe competition.

I’m considering getting a new RS Reba 100mm fork but don’t see the point if the bike still handles like a brick of soap.

Can you adjust handling with a better combination of a stiffer fork, tire, bar and stem? Or should I invest in a new rig?

 

[Scotty_Dog]

Without actually seeing you on the bike, I would guess your problem is a combination of poor riding position and technique. It sounds as if you are positioned too far back on the bicycle, unweighting the front end.

Before further explanation, have you been properly fitted on the bike?

 

[strader]

What tire do you have on the bike now? What width and inflation pressure?

 

[sogood]

IIRC, the reference weight distribution b/n front and back is 45-55%.

 

[jimmi707]

I run a set maxxis Exiwolf tiries 2.1 inch at 55 psi

 

[strader]

55 psi is way too high for a 2.1" tire, unless you weigh 300lbs or something. I run 55 in my 30c cross tires. Try running 30-40lbs.

 

[garage sale GT]

Without actually seeing you on the bike, I would guess your problem is a combination of poor riding position and technique. It sounds as if you are positioned too far back on the bicycle, unweighting the front end.

Before further explanation, have you been properly fitted on the bike?

I once put some cruiser bars on my MTB. I experienced a similar situation, then the straight bar went back on.

Conversely, I hopped up my "simple commuter" coaster brake cruiser and 3 speed Next bike by tossing the swept back cruiser bars and the 5" rise bar from the 3 speed. Much better handling.

Unless you got a riser bar and stem to compensate for an excessively long frame, get a lower stem and a flat bar before you spend $$$ on a new fork. Fix your bike so that your wrists carry the weight of your upper torso. Last, don't unweight the front end when you turn by leaning back. You could try it for free by flipping your riser bar or stem, or removing any spacers which may be under your stem.

Of course, this is all a guess. I assume you checked the obvious stuff like a loose headset bearing or looseness in the fork which would let the front wheel clatter around and lose traction.