30
ADJUSTMENT OF SIDECAR INSTALLATION
The sidecar should be installed in a definite position relative to the motorcycle. The position is
determined by the camber and toe-in of the motorcycle and the sidecar wheels. An incorrectly
aligned sidecar will drag the motorcycle to either side and cause extensive tire wear. If the motor-
cycle is not stable on the road or is difficult to steer,
check the alignment. Checking and measuring the
alignment should be done on level ground.
Check toe-in of the motorcycle and the sidecar wheels
with two straight bars applied to the side faces of the
wheels just below the axles. The toe-in should be 5 to 15
mm or 3/16 to 9/16 in. at the front wheel. When adjust-
ing, unbolt the top of the slanting legs fastening the
sidecar to the motorcycle, slacken off the bolt clamping
the lower rear bracket, adjust the position of the bracket
relative to the rear tube of the sidecar frame to obtain
necessary toe-in of the wheels. Tighten up the bolt
fastening the bracket, adjust the length of the legs and
secure them with bolts.
Check the lean-out of the motorcycle using a level gauge
or protractor with a plumb bob and a ruler. Adjust the
two inclined legs by screwing the forks in or out. When
the lean-out is correct, the rider will remain vertical while
riding on the local roads which may be slightly sloped to
assist with water runoff.
Check the toe-in while the motorcycle is running on the
road. With the toe-in properly adjusted, the motorcycle
will not pull to either side while running at normal road
speed. If it pulls to the right, increase the toe-in, if it
pulls to the left, decrease the toe-in.
CAUTION: Double check for correct toe-in before
making any change to lean-out.
0 to 3
º lean out
