Once you have your motorcycle driving license, you’ll have to decide whether you want a motorcycle with or without a steering dampers.
When riding, riders need to feel comfortable and safe.
However, there will surely be times when you’ll feel anything but. An example may be a strong abnormal tremor when your bike reaches high speeds and loses balance.
In these cases, it is essential your steering damper is in good condition.
Although this key part of your bike may solve this problem, few know its real uses. If this is the case for you, read on to find out what a steering damper (or shock absorber) for motorcycles is and its use.
What is a steering damper?
Part of a bike’s suspension system, a steering damper can be found in some motorcycles to provide stability, especially in frontal crashes at high speed.
What is the purpose of a steering damper?
The main purpose of this component is to cushion any sharp, sudden blows that may cause the front wheel and handlebar to rotate, leading to riders falling.
As such, steering dampers make it possible to adjust for the force and speed at which you are driving.
How does a steering damper work?
In short, steering dampers add resistance to motorcycle steering. That is, handlebars require more strength to turn from one side to the other, which lessens the effect of unintentional movements at high speeds.
An example would be a driver hitting a pothole while leaning into a curve. They could redirect the front wheel momentarily, allowing them to avoid losing control of their bike while the front wheel recovers from the impact.
What types of motorcycle steering damper are there?
There are currently two types of steering damper on the market: mechanical and electronic. The main difference is that mechanical dampers are activated independently of speed, while electronic ones are calibrated according to the speed at which the bike is going.
In terms of electronic steering dampers, they are suitable for motorcycles that reach high speeds, as they prevent strong handlebar oscillations.
In addition, they do not interfere with steering when bikes are moving at low speeds.
In contrast, low-speed steering may be impaired when a bike is fitted with a mechanical model, as its adjusting action is not directly related to the bike’s speed.
As it depends on manual action being taken by the driver, it can result in potentially problematic oscillations when manoeuvring at reduced speeds.
Is it worth investing in a bike with a steering damper?
Although they are important components to ensure driver safety, not all types of motorcycle have steering dampers. In general, the models that come with the accessory are those designed for riding at high speeds in motorcycle competitions.
Always choose to buy an original part
Although you may be tempted otherwise, always choose to buy new parts. After all, a second-hand component or part does not give you the guaranteed safety and durability of new equipment.
Another aspect that must be considered is where your steering damper was produced. To ensure your safety, do not buy counterfeit parts or those of dubious provenance.
Take care when using a motorcycle steering damper
A steering stabiliser will not make your bike fall-proof. However, it can help you navigate unforeseen circumstances.
Getting a damper does not substitute taking proper care of your handlebar bearings and ensuring correct tyre pressure, among other components assessed when you get your motorcycle serviced.
If your bike is vibrating strangely or its speed fluctuates dramatically, do not hide these problems with a steering damper. Instead, book your bike in for preventive maintenance.
Remember that getting a motorcycle steering damper does not permit you to push your bike beyond the limits of what’s legal. Quite the contrary, in fact – it is a useful tool for drivers to avoid dangerous situations.
If buying a motorcycle steering damper is viable for you, it’s important to know how much the investment could cost you.
How much does a steering damper cost?
Although the price of this part varies from bike to bike, prices of steering dampers start at 100 euros.
Take your bike to a specialised workshop to ensure your steering damper is safely installed.
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