Motorcycle Alabama

Open House => Open Discussion about Motorcycles => Topic started by: 2372ighost on December 01, 2018, 02:13:47 PM

Title: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 01, 2018, 02:13:47 PM
I'm thinking about putting my toe in the world of Hacks. I'm going to look at a Ural.
Besides Scooter, are there any other members that drive a sidecar rig? I don't want to be the Lone Ranger.
Ural, Dnepr, CJ, or customs?

Rich
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Nice Goat on December 01, 2018, 04:33:33 PM
I think @Yankee Dog has a Ural.  @polarissalesman sells them in Hamilton.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: springer on December 01, 2018, 05:00:25 PM
Quote from: 2372ighost on December 01, 2018, 02:13:47 PM
I'm thinking about putting my toe in the world of Hacks. I'm going to look at a Ural.
Besides Scooter, are there any other members that drive a sidecar rig? I don't want to be the Lone Ranger.
Ural, Dnepr, CJ, or customs?

Rich

Guy on ADVRider has one for sell, 2009 Ural Patrol T in WV, for $5,000.00, 25,590 miles, 2wd. Neutral light doesn't work but he has a replacement that will work to go with it.

Linky for addy;

https://advrider.com/f/threads/2009-ural-patrol-t-wv.1348967/

I do not know him at all, but looks like a good rig in the crappy pictures. ;) Have NO idea if the price is fair, good, or to much as I do not know what they go for new and it is a drive to see it.

I DO thinks they a cool looking  motorcycle though.  ;)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: KevinB on December 01, 2018, 08:38:11 PM
Paging @Moto Guzzi  to the white courtesy phone.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 01, 2018, 09:18:15 PM
I bought a 2013 Ural Gear Up back in March after wanting one for several years. It is an absolute hoot. Urals do have occasional issues but most are easy fixes. Check out the Soviet Steeds forum or the Hacks forum on Advrider.

Guntersville Powersports is a dealer as is Motorsports Superstore in Hamilton (polarissalesman works there).

A friend of mine bought Yankee Dog's Ural and she is having a blast with it.

Let me know if you have any questions. I'm new to sidecars but willing to offer assistance if you want to check one out.


Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 02, 2018, 06:10:32 PM
Thanks one and all. I will post pics of my purchase in the next day or so. I'm going to have to correct the lean on the tug, fix an inoperable brake light switch on the rear brake, and do all fluid changes. I'm going to do some drills at the church parking lot to get comfortable with right hand turns specifically.
I would like to do a ride with the other hack drivers when the weather and my abilities both improve ;D

2006 Patrol with 4900mi.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 02, 2018, 08:08:52 PM
If you don't already have a copy this is a great book for sidecars.  Good info and range layouts to use while learning to ride an outfit.

http://www.dmcsidecars.com/yellow-book/ (http://www.dmcsidecars.com/yellow-book/)

In what part of Alabama are you located?  I'm always up for a ride.  I'm just north of Birmingham.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on December 02, 2018, 08:14:17 PM
I am not an expert by any means. I have a total of 7 yrs experience in one rig and that is the one that I own. But I am more than happy to share my thoughts and knowledge for it's worth. But I have never ridden or worked on a Ural. However I would assume that basic adjustments would be similar. You will have to have lean out and some amount of toe in. My Harley has 1 1/2 degrees lean out and 1/2" of toe in. I have 9" of lead on the side car wheel. Meaning the sidecar wheel sits 9" in front of the rear wheel on the tug. You want to do all of this while keeping the frame of the sidecar level.
I am sure if you have taken the plunge into sidecars, you will give it a chance. You will either hate them or love them. If you get it sorted out to where is drives as it should, I bet you will too love it. They open up a entire new world of motorcycling. The world of Ural is huge, just not in this area. But the hack forum on Adventure Riders is full of info, with great knowledge and experience as well as Soviet steeds. There is help out there for whatever you might need. Again, if I can help in any way, let me know..
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on December 02, 2018, 08:27:28 PM
And find a large parking lot you can do large figure 8's. As you gain confidence you can gain a little speed and tighten up the figure 8's and you will begin to see and feel some sidecar lift. Do this a lot. Then do some more. I promise the conform level will grow. But you will have some scary moments once you get into traffic. But take your time. As much time as you want on back roads, less traveled roads and with time it will all click for ya and you'll want to ride it everywhere. But also know there will be no fast gas stops, no fast stops for milk, bread or beer. Everyone will want to talk to you about your rig. What's it like? Is is just like riding a two wheeler? Will you take me for a ride? Honestly, if you don't people, don't buy a sidecar.......
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 02, 2018, 10:48:54 PM
Thanks Moto Guzzi and Scooter, I will be leaning on you both.  :)
A hack rig has been on my "to do list" for a long time. When Scooter joined up, that really put me over the edge.
I have a copy of the "yellow book" and on my second slow read of the maneuvers.
I also joined Soviet Steeds and have been lurking for a while. Also ADV rider for a while since getting my KLR.
Moto Guzzi, I live in Gardendale.

I think my motorcycle golf bag is full of clubs now.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on December 03, 2018, 07:46:15 AM
Also, I forgot to mention, I started out with 75 lbs of ballast sitting under the seat of my rig. Pushed as far to the right as possible to help with the learning and making sure the sidecar did not lift much. I probably rode it that way for 5k miles. I no longer use or need ballast, even on twisty roads. You will learn at what speed you need to enter right handlers and when you can apply power coming out of the turns. Also, if it is pulling right or left, just a small amount, you can play with tire air pressures. Plus the Crowne of the road plays the most in rig set up. You can have it perfect for one road and then change highways and you may feel some pull from either right or left..

Ya gotta love to tinker, it's part of the experience.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 03, 2018, 12:38:48 PM
Cool.  My friend who bought Yankee Dog's Ural lives in the Gardendale area too.

Like Scooter, I started out with sandbags in the hack, 2 @ 50lb ea up front and 1 in the trunk.  I eliminated them one at a time at 2 week intervals after a month or so of riding it.  Lots of opinions out there on using ballast or not but I think it helped.  The rest of Scooter's advice is spot on too.  I still take it easy in right handers, I'm still learning that bit!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on December 03, 2018, 04:11:30 PM
Annie and I went for a ride today. Mid 60's here today in Montgomery. While out, another tip I remembered is when you are in to a right hand turn and the chair begins to lift, just apply a very small amount of front brake and it will sit the chair back down...
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 03, 2018, 07:35:51 PM
Thanks Scooter, good info,  I'll practice that.
Moto Guzzi, it's good to have close local riders to lead the way. 
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 03, 2018, 07:50:59 PM
Picked up the rig today.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/3faa551be183ed6725e85bb0d1448a0f.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/bb13e78d259a70750c323b96d85d10d4.jpg)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 03, 2018, 08:05:03 PM
Very nice.  I like that green.  What size is your trailer?  I only had a 5x8 utility trailer when I bought mine.  Had to borrow my brother's 6x14 to bring it home from Florida.  I've since sold the 5x8 and bought a 6x12.

Here's my Ural Gear Up.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-dpRcShP/0/266a4610/M/DSCF7014-M.jpg)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 03, 2018, 08:06:44 PM
The rig was a beast to handle!! This is the reason why. Side car wants to turn left.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/29da709b2b8380021bd8bb3e5fe45a2e.jpg)

Tug wants to turn right.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/1e4d45bbe7a3bbf01cb2eccd44c45a3d.jpg)



Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 03, 2018, 08:13:24 PM
Moto Guzzi, I have a 6x10.
This is the first adjustment on the hack. Picture crooked
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/ccf7475aeb9a2ebd510e4f8b52ced111.jpg)

Tug
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/20159dc4e8d67603264f7d3d45431ddc.jpg)

What an amazing difference. Did a 1 mile straight road with left turns at either end. 40mph, 3rd gear 3500rpm.
I think I can do this!! With practice
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 03, 2018, 08:18:33 PM
This is how off it was up front after leveling and lean out.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/b1fe3c2a93600a46bc5f73657a45e396.jpg)

The bolt on the left is what belongs in the rear tug support.
The one on the right is what was there.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/250872a00cb83ce09cfea81c8f0d22fa.jpg)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on December 03, 2018, 08:51:19 PM
2372ighost you are well on the way of being "bite" by the bug. In just a few hours you have already corrected numerous issues and made needed improvements. It's only gets better from here. The rig looks great. Actually it almost new. Both of y'all rigs look great.

Moto Guzzi, I am assuming by your name you have a guzzi. I had a 1975 850T, that I cafe'd and added the second disk to make it a T3. That was many years ago, but will most likely go down as the most reliable motorcycle I ever owned. I bought it as a basket case and spent a lot of time and dollars on it, but also put many, many happy miles on it without ever having an issue. Not even a light bulb. Totally bulletproof...
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on December 03, 2018, 09:05:46 PM
Also, just in case you guys might be interested, there is a good sidecar rally the last weekend of April in Stecoah NC at the Iron Horse Resort. Called Sidecars in the Smokies. I attended two years ago and had a blast and met numerous, really knowledgable folks. Several Urals there and also several high dollar, high horsepower rigs too. Probably 50 plus rigs there. There is also one in Georgia, that is put in by the Georgia sidecar club. I'll see if I can find the date for it. To my knowledge, there is nothing in Alabama, but come spring, I'd love to ride up ya'lls way for a meet up..
Until then, enjoy your rigs. My love for sidecar rigs only grows each time I get it out to play.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 03, 2018, 09:17:31 PM
I had a 1975 850 T3 that I got back on the road after it sat in a barn for 30 years.  Like yours, bought as a non-running, non-moving (calipers were frozen) basket case.  Also spent a fair amount of $$$ and lots of time getting it back on the road.  Put 20,000 miles on it then sold it to a friend who had wanted it from the day it was road-ready.  Only Guzzi I currently have is a Robin moped lol.  I do like the look of the new V85TT quite a bit.  I hope to get another Guzzi soon for sure.  Like a sidecar, they get in your blood.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 03, 2018, 09:19:27 PM
2372ighost good job on getting the set up sorted.  Key to a good handling rig.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 03, 2018, 09:28:27 PM
Sidecars in the smokies sounds like a doable trip. By April, I should be comfortable on a trip that far.
A group contingent from AL. Would be fun.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 04, 2018, 10:34:28 AM
A Rally trip sounds good!  The Tin Shed Pow Wow in Fayetteville TN was in October this year, if it repeats next year that would a good one to keep in mind too. 

Besides my friend in Gardendale there are a few other Ural riders around in Alabama, one up in Hartselle ( he is active on the Soviet Steeds site) and another who lives near Birmingham.  Haven't heard from him since February but as far as I know he still has his Ural. 
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on December 04, 2018, 12:52:18 PM
Any of them Sounds like fun! We just gotta make it happen next yr. and the more the better.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: bblass on December 05, 2018, 09:01:06 AM
Quote from: 2372ighost on December 03, 2018, 07:50:59 PM
Picked up the rig today.
(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/3faa551be183ed6725e85bb0d1448a0f.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20181204/bb13e78d259a70750c323b96d85d10d4.jpg)


Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk

Go ahead and put me down as first in line if you ever decide to part ways with her. That bike is beautiful!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: polarissalesman on December 05, 2018, 01:20:00 PM
Quote from: 2372ighost on December 01, 2018, 02:13:47 PM
I'm thinking about putting my toe in the world of Hacks. I'm going to look at a Ural.
Besides Scooter, are there any other members that drive a sidecar rig? I don't want to be the Lone Ranger.
Ural, Dnepr, CJ, or customs?

Rich, I have a woodland camo Gear-up 2wd on the showroom floor.... call me @ 205-430-2533
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 06, 2018, 10:12:37 PM
Waiting on filter and Orings. Going to mod a air oil separator for the crankcase. Ordered rear brake switch. Changed all fluids. Adjusted tire pressures. Adjusted clutch engagement. Replaced tail light bulb. Saturday I'll polish the wheels. When I run out of "to do's" , I'll have to drive it😄
I'm blessed with the fact that the rig has been in a garage it's whole life and not been ridden off-road.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on December 08, 2018, 03:08:33 PM
Sounds like a plan that is coming together nicely! Keep us informed as you complete the tasks to a roadworthy rig...
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 08, 2018, 03:53:13 PM
That's a big 10-4👌
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 30, 2018, 04:59:31 PM
Took my Ural Gear Up out for a 117 mile ride today.  No rain thankfully, just wet roads here and there.   Made a big loop through Locust Fork, Rosa, Oneonta, Altoona, Ivalee, Gallant, Ashville, St. Clair Springs and Springville.

Good ride!

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-VVFcnws/0/1186382b/L/DSCF4172-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-x7F4jWp/0/8ab0bca4/L/DSCF4175-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-MHFHtqf/0/874cf152/L/DSCF4178-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-vQCKRn2/0/ca1cb0a9/L/DSCF4183-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-wTdvsvj/0/ad593339/L/DSCF4188-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-HJnTJ3J/0/94a6844f/L/DSCF4190-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-F9ZqWGw/0/2fd6f3ca/L/DSCF4192-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-bNX4P5H/0/8502d9fd/L/DSCF4196-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-mJJqzWV/0/eb1291d2/L/DSCF4197-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 31, 2018, 10:59:38 PM
I'm sorting out an ignition glitch presently. I'm looking forward to doing a ride with you.
Looks like a lot of fun.
Title: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on January 08, 2019, 02:45:29 PM
I was on my way home from work last night and some cell phone user decided to try and make me her hood ornament. I'm ok, just banged up. Sidecar took a direct hit.  Doesn't look too bad in pictures but its bent up quite a bit. Waiting on adjuster to schedule a visit and go from there.

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/48ff09061022e44347092e1ebd0578a9.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/f4a8f49e160e7911c5f875df6b216e78.jpg)

(https://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20190108/7d889b05fd2fc8d3a279e3603f1eff67.jpg)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on January 08, 2019, 03:11:44 PM
Glad you're ok. What a bummer!! You need to redo toe in, after you mount the new sidecar
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Chuck & Susan on January 08, 2019, 03:22:49 PM
Yes glad your good to go. Both you and the side car could have fared much worse.

Hope the repairs go well.

Chuck
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on January 09, 2019, 11:22:54 AM
Thanks.  The adjuster is coming by today to do an inspection.  I want the dealer in Guntersville to check it over too.  I spoke with him yesterday. 
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on January 11, 2019, 08:23:38 PM
Update? Inquiring minds want to know!!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on January 11, 2019, 09:06:45 PM
Not much to report. Taking it up to Guntersville Powersports tomorrow so they can check it over. Hoping it can be fixed and not totaled. Adjuster estimate was quite low. We will see.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Gam on January 13, 2019, 07:29:38 AM
Hope you get back on the road soon, I like your "Southern Decay"  pics.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on January 15, 2019, 04:43:27 PM
Quote from: Moto Guzzi on January 11, 2019, 09:06:45 PM
Not much to report. Taking it up to Guntersville Powersports tomorrow so they can check it over. Hoping it can be fixed and not totaled. Adjuster estimate was quite low. We will see.
Very happy you are OK from the accident.  Any more news for the dealer? Lucky, I have never had an issue such as yours, but often wondered how it would be handled with a motorcycle and sidecar damaged.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on January 16, 2019, 01:49:47 PM
Nothing yet.  Took the Ural to them last Saturday, like most motorcycle shops they are closed Sun-Mon.  Hope to hear something by the end of the week.  If not I will call them on Saturday.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on January 19, 2019, 03:07:51 PM
Called the dealership today.  I was told they haven't done much of anything to it.  Said they were waiting on my insurance company to provide the estimate.  I had a copy of the estimate with me last Saturday when I dropped it off.  Offered to let them keep the copy.  They told me they didn't need it, if their estimate was different they would contact the adjuster direct.   >:(
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on January 19, 2019, 07:18:07 PM
Sounds like the left hand doesn't know what the right hands doing.  ::)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on January 19, 2019, 07:35:33 PM
Very sad. You would think, this being January, that it would be their slow time of the year and would be all over the repair and working to make you and the adjuster happy. But maybe it's it us, thinking we should be getting something in return for our hard earned dollars!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on January 20, 2019, 12:57:26 AM
Yeah, not too happy with that response.  The person I spoke with last Saturday was not there today.  Maybe he has better info than the person I talked to and will be able to give a better update on Tuesday. 
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: renchinrider on January 20, 2019, 11:54:30 AM
So glad to hear that YOU are safe and sound, and hate it about the bike.  Sounds like several valuable pieces of information may come out of all this:

1.  Overall durability and reparability of the motorcycle (I'm very curious, as I have a great interest in Urals!)

2.  Overall quality and dedication of Guntersville Powersports

3.  Overall quality and dedication of your and Ms. Happytexter's insurance companies

Hopefully, all three will be positive and encouraging!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on January 20, 2019, 02:12:36 PM
Quote from: renchinrider on January 20, 2019, 11:54:30 AM
So glad to hear that YOU are safe and sound, and hate it about the bike.  Sounds like several valuable pieces of information may come out of all this:

1.  Overall durability and reparability of the motorcycle (I'm very curious, as I have a great interest in Urals!)

2.  Overall quality and dedication of Guntersville Powersports

3.  Overall quality and dedication of your and Ms. Happytexter's insurance companies

Hopefully, all three will be positive and encouraging!

Thanks, yes it could have been a lot worse no doubt. 

A Ural is a Ural  :D  I've only had mine for 10 months but it has been great so far.  Soviet Steeds Forum is full of good information on them.  Yes, there are sometimes issues, even with the new ones, but I would buy another one without hesitation. Aside from the  bent up sheet metal on the sidecar, the main question is whether the frame is tweaked or not.  Of course I hope it can be repaired and not totaled.

As for Guntersville Powersports, mixed feelings so far.  I've been dealing with them since last July to get a wheel replaced due to cracks in the aluminum rim.  Supposed to be here soon after a parts delay with imz-ural (US Importer).  Been lots of fingerpointing  between the 2 with me in the middle about the wheel. And now with the previously mentioned response regarding the accident damage I'd say the jury is still out.  Really nice folks though.  Old school low key dealership.   How it works out remains to be seen.  I will call again on Tuesday to see what the status is.

The owner of the car that Happytexter was driving has the same insurance company that I have, so no worries there.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: renchinrider on January 20, 2019, 02:44:48 PM
I looked at the Urals Blue Moon Cycles had on display at Barber Vintage Fest, and I really like the nostalgic styling and seemingly bullet-proof engineering...  Maybe one day... ::)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on January 26, 2019, 11:54:56 PM
I did my first ride on my patrol today that didn't involve a maintenance/alignment test run since purchase. I rode 65mi, only stopping twice to adjust tug brake. The route was all secondary country roads and no traffic.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on January 27, 2019, 08:01:37 AM
Outstanding! Your rig looks great and your pic's are too.. i think I have already stated this, but I really enjoy playing with my rig. I still ride my two wheeler (Triumph)'more, but look for opportunities to get the rig out and go.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on January 28, 2019, 09:48:37 PM
I think we're going to have to have a hack get together when there's consistent weather. I managed 61mi today.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on February 07, 2019, 06:22:41 PM
Moto Guzzi, any news on your rig? Being repaired to your satisfaction?
Title: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on February 07, 2019, 08:14:43 PM
Not really. Last Friday when I checked in the person they use for paint and bodywork had determined he could fix the sidecar. LGP could not give an estimated time for the repairs to be completed.

I usually call on Friday for a weekly update. If there is anything new tomorrow I will pass it along.

Saturday will mark 1 month that LGP has had my rig.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on February 07, 2019, 09:16:40 PM
Surely not what I was hoping to hear. Sadly, not a lot you can do but wait it out and hope for best outcome. If not then lawyer time, no one can put up much arguement, when you were hit from behind!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on February 13, 2019, 02:40:17 PM
I didn't get a chance to call the dealer last week, but I called today.  My Ural has been picked up and taken to the shop that will be doing the bodywork and paint.  The replacement rim I have been working on getting since last July (separate issue, not from the accident) has arrived and is being taken care of too.  Things are looking good at this point.  Hope to be Uraling again soon!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on May 25, 2019, 11:13:12 PM
Went up to Guntersville today and picked up my Ural.  Although it took entirely too long, I am satisfied with the repairs.  While it was there the dealer also laced up the replacement rim for my spare wheel, so I now have a usable spare. 

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Bikes-and-Projects/2013-Ural-Gear-Up/i-TqWFQv6/0/183c91ea/L/DSCF5033-L.jpg)

Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on May 26, 2019, 01:32:05 PM
It did take a long time, but if you are happy with the repair, that's all that really matters. It not like there is a lot of folks out there to work on these things, much less understand them. Once the unknowing starts to loosen things up for removal, most won't understand what all is effected from a handling standpoint. Just simple tire pressure changes makes a lot of difference in tracking properly.
Glad you got it back and more so that you weren't hurt in the accident!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on May 26, 2019, 02:14:12 PM
Very true.  The dealer told me had a hard time finding some one to do the repairs, all the local paint and body shops declined the job.  He ended up taking to an old school car restoration guy he knew. 
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on May 26, 2019, 06:05:21 PM
And you most likely got a better repair too! Most of those guys are more qualified to work on anything, since they aren't specialized in only one brand!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on May 26, 2019, 08:35:05 PM
Ok hack drivers, it's time to do a get together!!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on May 27, 2019, 11:16:29 AM
I would like a get together as well. Sadly June is already covered up for me with health issues of a family member and also another skin cancer surgery for myself. This one right at the hairline in my forehead where a helmet sits. But I should be back at it by July and available to travel a little.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on May 27, 2019, 08:02:56 PM
Get it done Scooter, heal up quickly and ride!!!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on May 28, 2019, 10:13:02 AM
June and July are pretty busy for me too but a local meet up is possible depending on the date.  I have another friend who has a Ural and is not on MA.  I will be sure to include her in any meet up plans.  I know of 2 others in the central/north AL area, one in Birmingham and one up in Hartselle.  Hopefully we can put something together.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on May 28, 2019, 11:17:58 AM
Maybe an afternoon/evening  meet and greet north of Bham would work for the majority. I'm in Gardendale.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on May 28, 2019, 04:25:35 PM
I am south and east of Montgomery, however, seems most are B-ham and northern. Set a date that works for you guys and I will make it if I can. With grandkids being out of school now and all parents working, the grandparents are running a babysitting service about everyday. Along with some health issues, I too are hurting for riding time. But I'll do what I can to make it if at all possible. By September, I will be freed up again and can do more..
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on August 03, 2019, 10:29:22 AM
July 25-29 I did a road trip up to Heindl Engineering Ural Open House and Rally in Eaton, Ohio.  Just over 1000 miles round trip on my 2013 Ural.  I will be posting about the trip over in Ride Reports.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: renchinrider on August 04, 2019, 07:26:10 PM
Can't wait to see your ride report!  I am really enthused about all I've read about the 2019 Urals, and would really like to figure out how to get one! :-\
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on August 04, 2019, 10:16:13 PM
Quote from: renchinrider on August 04, 2019, 07:26:10 PM
Can't wait to see your ride report!  I am really enthused about all I've read about the 2019 Urals, and would really like to figure out how to get one! :-\

Ride report is up. 

I'm sure @polarissalesman  could help you out with a 2019,  ;D.  Or the fine folks at Lake Guntersville Powersports.

I wanted to test ride a 2019 at the Open House, but the only demo bike he had was sold on Friday, a day before the Open House.  Not enough time to set up another demo bike unfortunately.  A couple who were on an extended trip had issues with their then-current Ural (rode in running on one cylinder), so they traded it in on the demo bike, a 2019 Bumblebee.  A  Bumblebee is a version that Heindl has developed, bright yellow with black powertrain.  The couple who bought the Bumblebee came back on Saturday for the Open House. Very nice looking Ural!  I would love to have one myself.

According to the co-owner, any dealer can place an order for one.......just have to request a "Heindl Bumblebee".

Heindl Bumblebee

https://youtu.be/_rHQBEHFY3Q (https://youtu.be/_rHQBEHFY3Q)

Here is an assembly video of a Bumblebee (it's a bit long but well worth watching)

https://youtu.be/u2YmjclpTQs (https://youtu.be/u2YmjclpTQs)

And a shorter video about the custom colors Heindl can get

https://youtu.be/Y3WPgpx2EEs (https://youtu.be/Y3WPgpx2EEs)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on August 19, 2019, 03:48:19 PM
Ural Ride Day for 2019 is coming up on Saturday, September 7th.  Free sidecar rides!  I gave 12 rides last year, looking to do that and more this year.  I know of one other Ural rider who is planning on participating.  Anyone else going to participate?

I'm going to put a post in the "Events" topic also.

https://www.imz-ural.com/ural-ride-day (https://www.imz-ural.com/ural-ride-day)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 20, 2019, 08:45:03 PM
I have created a "Ural Riders of Alabama" Facebook group.  Open to any sidecar owners or people who are interested in sidecars.  I'm thinking of setting up a meet-n-greet after the first of the year.  Any interest?  Come join the Faceboook group too!
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on February 17, 2020, 11:19:25 PM
Preliminary discussion on having a Ural gathering in the Birmingham area (probably Oneonta) soon.  Exact time and date TBD.  Main discussion over on the Facebook group but I will post updates here.  I'm not the organizer, but I can find out if all brands of sidecars are welcome, if there is any interest from non-Ural owners.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Scooter on February 18, 2020, 07:50:37 PM
I am interested, if other rigs are allowed. However I am currently going through some serious back issues, but hope to be better very soon. Thanks for posting here, as I am one of the few who don't use Facebook...
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on December 16, 2020, 06:12:12 AM


My 2013 Ural Gear Up has been sidelined for about a month with a front brake caliper issue. Last Friday I got it back together and took it for a short 20 mile test ride.
     (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-V98Rk4p/0/87937777/L/2020121316523573-3111172234532548593-62941815816__2FF86C97-7E56-40A6-8CA9-3B37E158119C-L.jpg)


All went well on Friday so on Sunday I took it on a longer ride, about 110 miles total. I also rode it to work on Monday.  So far so good, the caliper issue has not reappeared.

First up was a stop in the Turkey Creek Nature Preserve, a favorite spot.
    (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-LgNq62h/0/50249fc0/L/DSCF1106-L.jpg)

Next stop was at the long closed Calvert Produce Market.
   (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-64btHM9/0/e784da93/L/DSCF1109-L.jpg)

Followed by the booming town of County Line.
    (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-8RTBqrL/0/63607043/L/DSCF1112-L.jpg)

The next few are from Arkadelphia, AL.
     (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-Mxwmmr7/0/84e5efa0/L/DSCF1113-L.jpg)

    (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-5RcJHm6/0/d1b64e3b/L/DSCF1116-L.jpg)

  (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-HQ8W7mz/0/5f345f4e/L/DSCF1119-L.jpg)

I then rode over to Garden City River Park via County Road 509 which runs along the Mulberry Fork river.
     (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-PWxqs7d/0/d6fc8c45/L/DSCF1123-L.jpg)

     (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-5bfVd58/0/983a39d7/L/DSCF1127-L.jpg)

An old Upholstery Shop in "downtown" Garden City, may have been a General Store/Service Station at some point, there is an old island out front that is similar to many that were used for 2 gas pumps.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-T4k7wFm/0/22547635/L/DSCF1131-L.jpg)

Another old store/service station, this one is in Locust Fork, AL
  (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-GNfVsQV/0/61a00ae3/L/DSCF1138-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-gXDGRv5/0/268eb58b/L/DSCF1139-L.jpg)
   
Lunch was at a local Burger King. Since so many fast food places in our area have closed the lobby area, I opted to enjoy one of the many benefits of a sidecar.
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-9rBHVfJ/0/f3283bd2/XL/IMG_7400-XL.jpg)   

This structure in Palmerdale has always intrigued me, it sits next to a small stream. If it was larger I would guess an old mill of some type, but there isn't any evidence of a mill wheel on the stream side.
  (https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-7FNLGs5/0/580927da/L/DSCF1143-L.jpg)

Cock of the Roost says that's all for today!
(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/Sidecars/Test-Ride-13-Dec-2020/i-D33MQcW/0/056ce5de/L/DSCF1145-L.jpg)
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: 2372ighost on December 16, 2020, 09:27:09 PM
My ural has been neglected lately due to me riding other bikes. This reminds me to fire it up and get out. I ride those same areas when I exercise one of the herd.
Title: Re: Hacks (sidecars)
Post by: Moto Guzzi on January 02, 2021, 04:48:19 PM
Took the Ural on the Chef Troy's ride today.  Curvy roads on a sidecar outfit are "interesting" at any speed.  Today was no exception!  lol.

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/BamaRides/Motorcycle-Alabama-Chef-Troys-Ride-02-Jan-2021/i-HGqGzbz/0/ab20865d/L/DSCF1286-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/BamaRides/Motorcycle-Alabama-Chef-Troys-Ride-02-Jan-2021/i-LTZQDNp/0/930cc2a2/L/DSCF1295-L.jpg)

(https://photos.smugmug.com/Motorcycles/BamaRides/Motorcycle-Alabama-Chef-Troys-Ride-02-Jan-2021/i-W3sHBnH/0/37c0e80f/L/DSCF1309-L.jpg)