Tyres, Brakes and Suspension » Steering Damper replacement upgrade

R1200RS + R1250RS Forum � 1250 RS technology � Tyres, Brakes and Suspension � Steering Damper replacement upgrade

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#1 | Steering Damper replacement upgrade datum

Thu Jul 23, 2020 10:32 am

I am not satisfied with the OEM steering damper on my 2020 R1250RS, and I wasn't happy with the OEM one on my 2018 R1200RS. I am thinking about getting one from Ohlins to stiffen up the steering. I find that the steering is a bit to "loose" at low speeds. Anyone have any experience with this modification?

"This year I'm riding my motorcycle to trailer week"

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#2 | RE: Steering Damper replacement upgrade datum

Thu Jul 23, 2020 11:47 am

Can't really say that I've ever been aware of the steering damper doing its thing, badly or otherwise, which usually suggests that it's okay. I don't think that the RS is really prone to shaking its head. Maybe I just haven't provoked it enough!

these members like the post: duccrazydave, Duckbubbles, Ray B, Richard230, Mark and Jim Evans

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#3 | RE: Steering Damper replacement upgrade datum

Thu Jul 23, 2020 11:49 am

Can you explain more what you mean?
I´ve been upto 200kmh on mine and not noticed anything, bike always feels super planted.

these members like the post: Grumpy Goat and Jim Evans

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#4 | RE: Steering Damper replacement upgrade datum

Thu Jul 23, 2020 12:27 pm

Zitat von Hydrashok158 im Beitrag #1
I am not satisfied with the OEM steering damper on my 2020 R1250RS, and I wasn't happy with the OEM one on my 2018 R1200RS. I am thinking about getting one from Ohlins to stiffen up the steering. I find that the steering is a bit to "loose" at low speeds. Anyone have any experience with this modification?

wasn't one of the "improvements" for the 2020 bike to reduce the wheelbase to make the steering more responsive?

I actually find the 1200RS needs quite a bit more steering effort compared to my other bike, the XR with wide, GS like bars. Now, that is a bike with flighty steering...

duccrazydave likes the post

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#5 | RE: Steering Damper replacement upgrade datum

Thu Jul 23, 2020 1:03 pm

I suspect if you reduce your front tyre pressure to 36 and jack the rear up to 42 it should sort the issue out. 😁

these members like the post: Sanemancured, Grumpy Goat and Jim Evans

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#6 | RE: Steering Damper replacement upgrade datum

Thu Jul 23, 2020 1:26 pm

Zitat von Oscarguitar im Beitrag #5
I suspect if you reduce your front tyre pressure to 36 and jack the rear up to 42 it should sort the issue out. 😁

Indeed.

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#7 | RE: Steering Damper replacement upgrade datum

Thu Jul 23, 2020 2:50 pm

My steering damper was removed from the 1200 and lives in the box on the shelf. This bike is super stable and I suspect the damper is fitted in case people overload with worn tyres and poorly set suspension.
In some respect the bike is almost too stable but I have to remind myself this is a sports / tour bike.
Low speed steering felt better once removed and I am now happy for damper to stay in box and the factory fitted safe guard just not required.

Tony101 likes the post

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Hill brake not holding bike...? � � 2020 rubber tested on an RS