What does an adjustable steering damper do?
What does an adjustable steering damper do?
A steering damper is basically a shock absorber for the steering. It dampens the effects of tyre vibration and feedback from the track surface. These problems are multiplied when you add bigger tyres and lifts which alter the factory steering geometry.
How do I know if my steering damper is bad?
Here are a few warning signs to watch for that might signal your steering damper is going bad or has failed:
- Steering wheel feels wobbly or loose.
- Steering is unstable off-road.
- Leaking hydraulic fluid under the vehicle.
- Clunking noise under the vehicle.
- Steering wheel shakes at higher speeds.
How important is a steering damper?
It grants better overall control of your motorcycle. A steering damper is basically a shock absorber for your handlebars. You get to ride more comfortably, fatigue from long rides is drastically reduced, and you have better control of your motorcycle when riding – especially at high speeds and sharp corners.
Can I drive without steering damper?
The fact is, if you have your suspension/steering dialed in correctly, you could drive around all day without any steering stabilizer at all and likely wouldn’t notice a difference on smooth flat terrain. If you have a heavy duty steering stabilizer, it will absorb more bump-steer and flighty steering issues.
Can a bad steering damper cause death wobble?
Death wobble is often blamed on a failed steering stabilizer or shocks and struts. While the steering stabilizer is not usually the only cause of death wobble, the extreme abuse that the stabilizer and the shocks take during the death wobble causes them to wear out very quickly.
Can steering damper go bad?
A final warning sign of a bad steering damper is when the steering wheel vibrates at higher speeds. This symptom is very common with out-of-balance tires, worn out CV joints or warped brake rotors. However, when the steering damper is loose, it can also create a similar situation.
