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Member
Question for the seasoned one-up road warriors. Sway Bars
Hi Folks! I'm sure this question has been asked numerous time, but please humor this relative newbie.
I'm looking to the future in taking longer rides. My aim is to have better control in high winds and maneuvering around semi's on interstates riding one-up (as opposed to tearing through twisties).
Is it worth the investment in a beefier sway bar (BajaRon more than likely)? Or, since I'll be riding solo, is the stock sway bar sufficient?
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Ozzie Ozzie Ozzie
Originally Posted by JBMGDM
Hi Folks! I'm sure this question has been asked numerous time, but please humor this relative newbie.
I'm looking to the future in taking longer rides. My aim is to have better control in high winds and maneuvering around semi's on interstates riding one-up (as opposed to tearing through twisties).
Is it worth the investment in a beefier sway bar (BajaRon more than likely)? Or, since I'll be riding solo, is the stock sway bar sufficient?
Given the criteria above, YES!
That said, the stock sway bar may well be 'sufficient', but if better control in the stated circumstances is your aim, then an upgraded sway bar will provide a significant improvement over just 'sufficient', and IMHO, that improvement in control & therefore safety, rider confidence, & comfort would be worth it at twice the price! There again, your milage may vary.... . But you did ask...
Last edited by Peter Aawen; 03-07-2022 at 04:56 PM.
2013 RT Ltd Pearl White
Ryde More, Worry Less!
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Very Active Member
For interstate driving the sway bar upgrade will definitely help especially around semi’s.
Also switching to good car tires will provide additional stability.
"Stupid is as Stupid does"
Don't Drink and Drive or Ryde!
Each Day is a Gift
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Very Active Member
The beefier sway bar helps with cornering, wind gusts, and semis. Shocks will improve ride on irregular surfaces (bumps). Tires will improve ride, traction, and longevity.
'20 Spyder RT: Bajaron swaybar. Vredestein tires, Pedal Commander, Elka front shocks, GPS/USB/12V handlebar mount, Heli-Bars, Radar Detector, KOTT grills & vents, Shad top case, chin & DRL LEDs.
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Very Active Member
The stock sway bar should be replaced regardless of load and riding conditions. Upgrading will improve your handling in many ways...... Jim
2005 Windveil Blue Premium Mustang Convertible
2008 Honda GL1800/California Sidecar Trike, SOLD
2014 Platinum Silver Satin Spyder RTL, SOLD
Semper Fi
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Member
Your Magic Words
Originally Posted by Peter Aawen
Given the criteria above, YES!
That said, the stock sway bar may well be ' sufficient', but if better control in the stated circumstances is your aim, then an upgraded sway bar will provide a significant improvement over just 'sufficient', and IMHO, that improvement in control & therefore safety, rider confidence, & comfort would be worth it at twice the price! There again, your milage may vary.... . But you did ask...
You've conveyed the magic words - improvement in control & therefore safety, rider confidence, & comfort. Thanks Peter!
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Very Active Member
2022 RT Sea To Sky
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Very Active Member
Originally Posted by Peter Aawen
Given the criteria above, YES!
That said, the stock sway bar may well be ' sufficient', but if better control in the stated circumstances is your aim, then an upgraded sway bar will provide a significant improvement over just 'sufficient', and IMHO, that improvement in control & therefore safety, rider confidence, & comfort would be worth it at twice the price! There again, your milage may vary.... . But you did ask...
with Peter, but I still don't have one .... My experience has been different though .... I designed and made a Bracket that changed the ANGLE of the Front shocks (a lot more up-right ) It appears the OEM shocks now work better..... So I never got the SWAY-BAR ...... I know it works, get one ...... Mike .......PS if your curious about what ,my Brackets look like , I have pics with explanations in my Albums ....." shock re-locators 2013+ & F-3
Last edited by BLUEKNIGHT911; 03-07-2022 at 07:24 PM.
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Very Active Member
All plenty of positives above FYI still oem @ 70+k miles all laid back & casual, can’t say have had any difficulty around trucks , maybe just not as bothered each their own with that said - additional lighting a definite plus for just being seen on those solo interstate stretches. Enjoy
Last edited by Bfromla; 03-07-2022 at 07:56 PM.
2013 STL SE5 BLACK CURRANT
SpyderPop's: LED bumpskid
SmoothSpyder: dualmode back rest
T r * * LED:foam grip covers, Tricrings, FenderZ,
brake light strips, wide vue mirrors
Rivico SOMA modulation brake leds
sawblade mowhalk fender accents
minispyder dash toy
Lid lox
KradelLock
Pakitrack
GENSSI ELITE LED H4 headlights
FLO (Frunk Lid Organizer)
BRP fog lights, trailer hitch
SENA 20S EVO
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Very Active Member
Originally Posted by JBMGDM
Hi Folks! I'm sure this question has been asked numerous time, but please humor this relative newbie.
I'm looking to the future in taking longer rides. My aim is to have better control in high winds and maneuvering around semi's on interstates riding one-up (as opposed to tearing through twisties).
Is it worth the investment in a beefier sway bar (BajaRon more than likely)? Or, since I'll be riding solo, is the stock sway bar sufficient?
I went for 6+ years without changing my swaybar (all solo riding). This year I bit the bullet and got the BajaRon bar but due to the cool/cold weather limited my trips to local only....no highway riding whatsoever. This past weekend I did a quick trip up to another town, riding at highway speeds (110 kph to 120 kph) and couldn’t believe the difference in my ride. My RTS is now firmly planted on the highway. It feels far more secure. I’m running Vredesteins on the front and Altimax 43 on the rear. The combination of those tires AND the BAJA RON SWAYBAR gave me a brand new ride. jmho wthdik
Tri-Axis Chrome Handlebars
Sena SM10 BT Dongle
Double USB Port/Volt meter
LaMonster Magic Mirrors
BajaRon Swaybar
HALO Skid Plate
Spyder Pops Rear Running Lights Turn Signals/Brake Light
Spyder Pops Mirror Running Lights/Turn Signals
Shorty Antenna
LaMonster Cat Delete
Akrapovic Muffler
FOBO2 TPMS
Rear Trunk Rack
Bruce Erickson
Chilliwack, BC
Canada
You know when a politician is Lying. It's when his lips are moving!
2014 RTS-SE6 - Cognac
intro to m/c 1949 Royal Enfield 500cc thumper
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Very Active Member
Another vote up for the BajaRon sway bar here. Definitely made a noticeable difference.
2020 F3 SE6
Safety and Lighting: LED Headlight upgrade, IPS LED Fog lights, Show Chrome LED Fender Signals, LED Signature Light, Tric LED Afterburnerz, MotoHorn 2.0
Suspension: Wilbers Front and Rear Shocks, BajaRon Sway Bar, Vredestein Quatrac Front and Rear Tires
Comfort: Blue Ridge Windshield, Corbin Dual Touring Saddle, Ultimate Floorboards, OEM Passenger Backrest with Rear Shelf, OEM Passenger Floorboards Modified with High Risers from Pierre
Tackform Center Mount Phone Holder w/ rapid charging USB-C.
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I don't confuse investment with spending, but adding a swaybar, IMO, was definately an investment in control, handling, comfort and increased yee haw.
If you are still on Kenda tires, ditch them and get real car tires - another real investment that's even more effectiver.
Ours is a red, black and chrome 2017 F3 Limited. Bought new in 2/2019. The avatar is my first bike back in 1952, a Simplex Servi-Cycle. Photo taken at the Barber Museum.
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Very Active Member
Originally Posted by JBMGDM
Hi Folks! I'm sure this question has been asked numerous time, but please humor this relative newbie.
I'm looking to the future in taking longer rides. My aim is to have better control in high winds and maneuvering around semi's on interstates riding one-up (as opposed to tearing through twisties).
Is it worth the investment in a beefier sway bar (BajaRon more than likely)? Or, since I'll be riding solo, is the stock sway bar sufficient?
Yes, it well worth having a sway bar.
I am a solo rider myself, I have noticed a difference when I am maneuvering on the interstate,and on my local roads. The spyder handles much better and sticks to the road better.
Deanna
Current Spyder - 2023 F3 LTD Special Mineral Blue
Red LED NANO Saddlebag Marker Lights with Full Illumination
Sequential Fender LED'S (Amber/Red) with Safety Reflector
Dual Power Plate (12 V & USB ports)
Gremlin Bell
Rear Trunk Organizer (4 holders, 2 Elastic Holders)
Lamonster "Top Cuff" with adjustable drink Holder
SpyderPops Missing Guard Belt
Console Accent Trim (Carbon Fiber Domed Black)
Ultimate F3 Floorboards
Front Fairing Service Access Door Covers (Carbon Fiber Doomed Black)
Sway Bar with Links
Rolo Laser Alignment
Half Cover
A-Arm Daytime Dual Color LED Running Lights with Blinker Module
Hi-Viz DRL and Sequential Mirrors lights
Marinco 12Volt Power Receptacle with polarized leads & slide lock
Show chrome Trunk Shock
Former Spyder - 2014 RTS SE6 Cognac SOLD
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Very Active Member
Originally Posted by RayBJ
The beefier sway bar helps with cornering, wind gusts, and semis. Shocks will improve ride on irregular surfaces (bumps). Tires will improve ride, traction, and longevity.
Well said. I ride solo and alot on the highway. Baja Ron sway bar was one of the first additions to my bike.
Tires will be my next investment.
David C
2016 F3T
DIY Garage Door Opener & GPS Mount
Battery tender cable
Rear IPS Pack Rack
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Active Member
GET THE SWAYBAR, it will make for a better handling byke, and get a decent brand tyre, they also make a huge difference, do one upgrade at a time, so you'll notice the benefits...
the funniest thing about this particular signature is that by the time you realise it doesn't say anything it's to late to stop reading it........
Spyder F3s 2019 All Black ( Named it: Brutus)
Carbon Items added, just for looks
Upgraded Shocks Trac-Tive, Rear hi/lo and rebound adjustable, with Hydraulic Pre-Load adjuster
fronts hi/lo and rebound adjustable, custom made by the Trac-Tive Guru's
Swaybar (Ron's)
Tyres Front Michelin Cross Climate+ 175/60-15
Rear, for 2022 still a Kenda, next Yokohama Advan Fleva 205/55R15
Exhaust Bone stock, with a RLS Cat- Delete
Custom ECU-Mapping, rewritten/adapted to my Ridingstyle
Pedalbox, Awesome Upgrade...
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On my 2020RT it was a big improvement: Straight line stability was greatly improved (I can one hand it on the interstate at 80 mph) and the Spyder was a lot less jittery in the twisties. Worth every penny spent.
Sold: 2020RT base with numerous improvements and farkles
Previous 2 wheels: 3 BMWs, 1 Honda, 1 Yamaha and 1 Husqvarna
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Member
I have the lighting situation under control. Those were my first mods.
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Very Active Member
With all due respect to posters and products, I’m going to say, if you have the inclination and the money, upgrade whatever you wish. I’ve had 3 Spyders in my life so far. I’ve used car tires, sway bars, different shocks, etc.. On those Spyders, I’ve traveled all over the country, all kinds of terrain, in all types of weather, at all times of the year and racked up 158K miles, collectively. The only upgrade I ever was able to concretely say I noticed any difference having installed was putting Elka shocks on the front. I get better miles out of Kenda’s than any car tire I’ve ever tried. I can handle being buffeted by strong winds or the draft of semis without any questions of safety. Just my opinion.
2022 Plasma Red, F3 Limited, Special Series
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Very Active Member
Originally Posted by tofriendscreek
With all due respect to posters and products, I’m going to say, if you have the inclination and the money, upgrade whatever you wish. I’ve had 3 Spyders in my life so far. I’ve used car tires, sway bars, different shocks, etc.. On those Spyders, I’ve traveled all over the country, all kinds of terrain, in all types of weather, at all times of the year and racked up 158K miles, collectively. The only upgrade I ever was able to concretely say I noticed any difference having installed was putting Elka shocks on the front. I get better miles out of Kenda’s than any car tire I’ve ever tried. I can handle being buffeted by strong winds or the draft of semis without any questions of safety. Just my opinion.
The key point that needs to be understood is the type of rider driving the machine. Casual riders may not notice the limitations of the OEM equipment. Those that push their machines hard discover the weakness in the stock suspensions and upgrade to create a safer and more enjoyable experience.
'20 Spyder RT: Bajaron swaybar. Vredestein tires, Pedal Commander, Elka front shocks, GPS/USB/12V handlebar mount, Heli-Bars, Radar Detector, KOTT grills & vents, Shad top case, chin & DRL LEDs.
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In my (limited to 8K miles on a 2020 RTL) opinion, get BajaRon's swaybar. I won't go as far as to say it will resolve issues passing a semi at interstate speed, but I found it stabilized my RTL in corners & curves, specifically curves that tighten or are unevenly surfaced. This opinion would be "seconded" by my wife, who commented on how much "correction" I was doing IN a curve (pre-BajaRon swaybar). Now my RTL gets a "set" and requires little, or no, correction; I consider it money well spent.
I would be quick to add that BlueKnight911 probably has a handle on the true "root of the problem"; the angle of the coil-overs on these machines. I just don't have the education in suspension geometry, or experience in fabrication, necessary to compensate for the factory set-up..., so I bought a swaybar.
Also..., remember that tire pressure is very important. Radial tires tend to move horizontally, or "roll over", because they have flexible sidewalls intended to afford you a softer ride. The lower the pressure, and the taller the sidewall, the more they will do this. If your running car tires, at a lower pressure than manufacturer specs, this has to affect your steering/handling; to what degree, I don't know. I put 16" wheels & tires on mine & am happy with that decision.
2020 Spyder RT Limited; Deep Marsala/Chrome
Formosa AZ01 165/50/R16's on PPA Recluse wheels up front
General Altimax RT43 215/60/R15 on factory rear
Primary exhaust: RLS Cat delete w/ his baffle; secondary, custom built w/ Flowmaster HS2
Suspension: BajaRon swaybar (highly recommended!), M2 coil-overs, front & rear (also highly recomended!)
Extra LED lighting and misc. to suit my needs/wants
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Very Active Member
Originally Posted by spyderdave
In my (limited to 8K miles on a 2020 RTL) opinion, get BajaRon's swaybar. I won't go as far as to say it will resolve issues passing a semi at interstate speed, but I found it stabilized my RTL in corners & curves, specifically curves that tighten or are unevenly surfaced. This opinion would be "seconded" by my wife, who commented on how much "correction" I was doing IN a curve (pre-BajaRon swaybar). Now my RTL gets a "set" and requires little, or no, correction; I consider it money well spent.
I would be quick to add that BlueKnight911 probably has a handle on the true "root of the problem"; the angle of the coil-overs on these machines. I just don't have the education in suspension geometry, or experience in fabrication, necessary to compensate for the factory set-up..., so I bought a swaybar.
Also..., remember that tire pressure is very important. Radial tires tend to move horizontally, or "roll over", because they have flexible sidewalls intended to afford you a softer ride. The lower the pressure, and the taller the sidewall, the more they will do this. If your running car tires, at a lower pressure than manufacturer specs, this has to affect your steering/handling; to what degree, I don't know. I put 16" wheels & tires on mine & am happy with that decision.
Thanks for the compliment, .... The reason " radial tires " provide better Traction when turning, is because the sidewalls " flex " more .... I've watched ( proprietary ) video's of various types of tires in action while the veh. is turning.... Radial tires will have a larger " footprint " ie. tread on the road surface, than tires with different types of cores..... The KEY reason auto tires work on lightweight Spyders is the inflation pressures MUST be lower than what would normally be used for a Car ..... Mike
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Very Active Member
Originally Posted by JBMGDM
Hi Folks! I'm sure this question has been asked numerous time, but please humor this relative newbie.
I'm looking to the future in taking longer rides. My aim is to have better control in high winds and maneuvering around semi's on interstates riding one-up (as opposed to tearing through twisties).
Is it worth the investment in a beefier sway bar (BajaRon more than likely)? Or, since I'll be riding solo, is the stock sway bar sufficient?
Since the investment compared to the cost of a Spyder is negligible, just go ahead and do it. I did ride mine for a year before putting it on but I also wanted to be sure I could tell a difference, I could. For all those reasons you said you wanted in your original post. I ride solo and at 70,000+ miles I wouldn't have my Spyder without a bar.
Happy TRAils/NSD
Paul
2012 RT L
AMA 25 years Life Member
TRA
PGR
Rhino Riders Plate #83
Venturers #78
TOI
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Very Active Member
Tri-Axis Chrome Handlebars
Sena SM10 BT Dongle
Double USB Port/Volt meter
LaMonster Magic Mirrors
BajaRon Swaybar
HALO Skid Plate
Spyder Pops Rear Running Lights Turn Signals/Brake Light
Spyder Pops Mirror Running Lights/Turn Signals
Shorty Antenna
LaMonster Cat Delete
Akrapovic Muffler
FOBO2 TPMS
Rear Trunk Rack
Bruce Erickson
Chilliwack, BC
Canada
You know when a politician is Lying. It's when his lips are moving!
2014 RTS-SE6 - Cognac
intro to m/c 1949 Royal Enfield 500cc thumper
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Very Active Member
Happy TRAils/NSD
Paul
2012 RT L
AMA 25 years Life Member
TRA
PGR
Rhino Riders Plate #83
Venturers #78
TOI
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