Let’s talk about upgrading the steering damper

[SS4Luck]

With the new ride height and wheelbase length the stock steering damper just doesn’t cut it anymore. Under 40 it’s useless and at freeway speeds/under power the bars move more/easier than I’d like them too.


Anyone swapped the stocker out for an ohlins or anything yet?

 

[Hayabusa Wannabe]

The steering damper's job is to stop uncontrolled oscillations, not apply friction to slow down steering movement in general. However, if the geometry that is contributing to excessive jitteryness is truly how you want it, I suppose that you must go in this direction.

A heavier front wheel will track better, but unless the rims are CF then this is unhelpful.

Just like with adjusting fork damping, different viscosity oils can be used to significantly alter the effects of the damper. Here is a discussion I randomly found where some thoughtful effects are brought up, like compromises for outside temperature:

Steering damper fluid...... | General Bike Related Topics

Just a quick question Guys, what fluid specification do you recommend to replace the “fish oilâ€

www.hayabusa.org

 

[wreckwriter]

I refilled mine with 90w gear oil. Significantly stiffer

 

[smithabusa]

I've had good luck with heavier weight also, though not as fancy or pretty as a new damper

 

[Coffs]

Didn't even realize there was one when I first bought the bike, no issues whatsoever at any speed or condition and I don't baby it.