CB1100 Sidecar Experiment

[deltamark]

Hi all,

I’m fairly new here and recently introduced myself in the “New Members” thread. After a suggestion from another CB1100 Forum member, I decided to start a thread about my new-to-me 2014 CB1100 standard / sidecar rig. This is my first rig and first CB1100.




I’d been interested in and fascinated by sidecars for several years. Did a lot of research and began seriously shopping for a rig late last summer. I was being really picky about what I wanted and since I didn’t really find it, decided to have one built.

I read some advice about when building a sidecar rig to start with the bike you like. : ) Well, the CB1100 was on my radar for a while. I was aware that not all bikes are ideal to use for a rig, but the CB seemed to have enough of the elements to give it a go. I also saw pictures of another CB1100 / sidecar combo on this site, so I knew it could be done.

I purchased my CB back in December from a private seller.

The bike appeared to be in very good condition and had about 2,600 miles. Earlier in December, I also found a 2002 Ural Tourist sidecar-only for sale at [url=http://www.heindlengineering.com/]Heindl Engineering in Eaton, Ohio.
The sidecar looked a bit weathered so I had it painted.

I contracted with Bob Wark of [url=http://www.warkshop.com/]The Warkshop to install the sidecar frame. Bob is a professional sidecar builder / seller and his work is top notch. He fabricated a subframe to link the sidecar frame to the CB. He had to remove the center stand and customize and replace a new left seat bracket to attach the subframe.
I picked up the installed frame a few weeks ago, took it home and fastened the tub onto the frame.

I’ve taken a few test rides since then and am extremely pleased! I knew going in that piloting a sidecar rig would be dramatically different than riding a motorcycle and it is. I have a good deal to learn and plan to continue practicing my skills before I begin with my real adventure … traveling with my dog, Rudi!


I have a lot of things I want to add to this rig and it will take time and $. Will post more in the future. In the meantime, I'm really looking forward to some better weather and a lot of riding!!!