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Author Topic: CB700 handling feels wonky  (Read 421 times)
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polar8 Topic starter
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« on: June 12, 2011, 03:55:33 PM »

I picked up a CB700 on craigslist with hopes of having a good summer project. Got it running great, but the handling feels weird. The only other comparison I have is my Suzuki GS500, which handles great. When I go to take a turn on the CB700, it feels like it wants to fall over and I have to provide a great deal of pressure on the inside handlebar to keep it on its line. Does this sound normal?

I'm worried that it might have been crashed and the frame bent. Any way to measure it to see if that's a possibility? No crash damage other than an apparent lowside- a broken fin and some moderate scratches on the clutch cover.

Am I crazy, or is this how these bikes handle?
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polar8 Topic starter
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« Reply #1 on: June 12, 2011, 05:36:37 PM »

I should add, the steering I described is the same on both sides, and the bike does not pull to either side at any speed.
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tomb raider
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« Reply #2 on: June 12, 2011, 05:50:16 PM »

When I test rode my 85 it was the same way. The tires had Les than 10 lbs of air.. Check that.. Made big difference..
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Jimbo
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« Reply #3 on: June 12, 2011, 06:02:18 PM »

I have heard that the handling is wonky if you aren't going fast enough......

Seriously.....I had an issue with a tire on the front that was too big and had a strange profile. When I put the correct size tire on, all handling issues were cured.
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Dave
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« Reply #4 on: June 12, 2011, 06:07:52 PM »

I would check the forks. When the oil is old, it can affect your stability tremendously.
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« Reply #5 on: June 12, 2011, 08:30:47 PM »

I'd go easiest to hardest...Check the air pressure in your tires first, also visually check for tires with uneven wear, tread patterns, etc. If the bike is tracking true, with the front wheel straight, i'd imagine that the frame isn't damaged...but it's always possible, especially with an old bike.

Also, depending on the center of gravity, the Hawk might be a tad more top heavy than the GS, which could give you the feeling of the bike tipping over, even though it's very stable.
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tomb raider
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« Reply #6 on: June 12, 2011, 08:36:33 PM »

Shaft is differant in a corner than a chain bike.
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Jimbo
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« Reply #7 on: June 13, 2011, 06:27:06 AM »

In addition to what others have suggested, perhaps pull the wheel and examine the front wheel bearings.  Torque the pinch bolts and axle to the specified amount.
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Brittles
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« Reply #8 on: June 13, 2011, 07:44:33 PM »

Could it just be the way a 16" front wheel compares to whatever is on your Suzuki (17", 19")?
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John

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