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Assistant Chapter Director
10/2005
CARRYING LOADS
Most motorcycles are not designed to carry loads. However, small loads can be carried safely if they are positioned and fastened properly. If you are unsure whether the load is too heavy, very motorcycle has a maximum load capacity specified by its manufacturer. It is the difference between the empty weight and the maximum allowable weight of the motorcycle and all of its load, including the rider and passenger.
There are three main points to think about when you need to carry a load on your motorcycle:
? How much the load weighs.
? Where the load is located.
? How the load is secured.
? Check the load.
The Load's Weight , Remember that saddlebags, tankbags, luggage racks, etc., have their own weight limits. Don't exceed them. For example, if a tankbag is rated for only 20 pounds (9 kilograms), don't try to fit a 50 pounds (22 kilogram) weight in it. As with carrying a passenger you need to adjust the suspension and tire pressures when carrying a heavy load. Where The Load Is Placed Try to keep the load low. Fasten loads to the seat, or put them in saddle bags. Don't pile loads against a sissybar or frame on the back of the seat. Placing a load high against a bar or frame raises the motorcycle's center of gravity and disturbs its balance and drastically affects its handling. Pack frames are made for packs carrying light clothes, not heavy items. Carrying a heavy load high and to the rear of the motorcycle will make the front wheel light and prone to losing grip. This can be at best exciting, at worst very painful and expensive! Keep the load forward as possible.Never place a load behind the rear axle as it drastically affects the bikes handling and can, in fact, cause the bike to develop a dangerous wobble. Tank bags are a good way to keep loads forward, but you should especially use caution when carrying hard or sharp objects on the tank. On the other hand, never strap things to the handlebar, front forks, or front fender. Even if the handlebar and suspension travel is unaffected, the weight can cause the bike to steer in an, er, "unusual" way....! Distribute the Load Evenly. If using saddle bags, make sure each is loaded with about the same weight. An unevenly balanced load can cause the motorcycle to drift to one side or create a steering wobble. Ensure the Load is Secure. Fasten the load securely with elastic cords (bungee cords) or straps. A loose load can catch in the wheel or chain, causing the rear wheel to lock up and skid. Don't use rope to secure loads as it tends to stretch and knots often come loose, with the exciting result that the load shifts or falls off. Don't block lights or moving suspension pieces. And be sure there are no loose items to fall off. (That may, or may not, include the pillion...) If the load is an awkward shape, size, or hard to tie onto the bike, don't carry it on a motorcycle. Surfboards and spinning wheels are not meant to be carried on a motorcycle. Check the Load. Stop and check the load every so often. Make sure it hasn't worked loose or moved. Remember that the additional weight of loads can catch the rider unawares in an unexpected situation. So, when you are carrying a load on your motorcycle, expect the unexpected. So you should adjust your riding to take this into account.
- Go a little slower, especially when taking curves, corners, or bumps.
- Start slowing earlier than normal.
- Open up a larger cushion of space ahead and to the sides.
- Wait for larger gaps when you want to cross, enter, merge with or overtake other vehicles.
Remember, you should try to warn your passenger of the unexpected - when you will pull out, stop quickly, turn sharply, or ride over a bump. Agree on predetermined signals to ensure good communications and talk as little as possible. When you must talk, turn your head slightly to make yourself understood. But, keep a weather eye on the road ahead, of course...
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