What is speed wobble?

Speed wobble, or tank slapping, is a motorcycle instability which can occur above a certain speed. It is characterised by a rapid side to side oscillation of the handle bars. This is accompanied by a violent shaking/wobbling of the forks and chassis due to resonance between the steering/frame system and the rolling pneumatic tyre.

Speed wobbles are usually due to a combination of factors, including:

1) Imbalances in the wheels or tires. This can cause an imbalance in the forces that act on the motorcycle, which can lead to a loss of stability.

2) Improper alignment of the handlebars, front wheel, or forks. If these components are not aligned properly, they can also put stress on the motorcycle and lead to a loss of stability.

3) High speed riding on bumpy roads. This can cause the motorcycle to become unbalanced and start to wobble.

4) Weak forks that flex excessively. This can also cause the motorcycle to lose stability and start to wobble.

5) A too soft rear tire. This makes it more difficult for the rear tire to absorb the forces that are generated by the front tire when it wobbles.

6) A high-speed crash that damages the frame, forks or steering head can also cause a motorcycle to develop a speed wobble.