Newbie question

After passing my test a week ago I have finally rode my VFR for the first time, the thing that struck me was how much it wanted to pull into a turn as soon as the direction was changed, I had to positively push on the opposite grip to where I was going, so is this normal?
For information the Honda 650 I used in the test and a KTM 390 hired last week (yes last week!) on holiday didn’t do this.

Thank you in advance

 

No it shouldn't. Many variables can contribute. Is your bike mostly stock?

Verify you are running the correct tire pressure and the condition of the tires is good.

If they were previously ran too low they could be cupped. If they are nearing the end of their life, the profile could be far from ideal.

After that, time to look at suspension settings and condition likely. But it's usually tires on a stock(ish) bike.

 

All VFRs should have very neutral steering, my 5th gen requires no thought from me in that regard. As the Captain advises, check tyre pressures are correct (36F/42R), and if that doesn't help take a good look at the tyre profiles, they should be evenly rounded but if you have a central flat spot then you need new tyres. Lastly, check your front suspension is at the stock height, there is a circlip at the top of the fork tube that should be sitting down near/on the handlebar clamp; if the fork has been slid up through the triple clamps it can make the steering faster.

 

And don't discount your contact points on the bike, specifically your hands (grip and pressure on bars). You may be inputting more than you think.

 

Thanks guys, that’s good information. I’ll check both pressures and tyre at the weekend and the little circlip.
BTW it’s stock other than an Arrow exhaust.

I have another VFR (bottom image) however that’s not been on the road in 20yrs!

 

Probably worth looking at the date codes also.

 

By the way... This site doesn't like links to photos. They don't show in the feed, only in replies. They need to be uploaded via the "Upload a File" button next to "Post Reply".

 

Big sidebags and top box mounted high an far back will affect (destroy) steering amd handling. Especially so when loaded (the bags/topbox) or going fast.