Atlas Lowrider

[NMPete]

Hi - I am restoring a '64 Atlas and have an unusual problem: the front sits a lot higher than the back (all pictures I have seen show the frame fairly level). Here is what I have:
- New Atlas fork tubes (21.8")
- Spring length 18-9/16"
- Short damper tube (9", about 1-3/4" shorter than Commando)
- 19" front wheel/tire
- Steering head angle 24 deg (as best I can measure it, but not 22 or 26)
- Rear 18" wheel/tire and 11.85" Hagon shocks - angle of swingarm looks similar to all pictures in the books, forums, etc.

Any suggestions on what might be wrong?

Thanks

Pete

 

[texasSlick]

With the original Avon tires (3.25-19 F, 4.00 -18 R) and stock shocks on mid position , my Atlas sat on the center stand with the front tire well off the ground. I now have a Dunlop 4.00-18 on the rear and the front tire touches the ground.

There may not be anything wrong.

Slick

 

[mdt-son]

Hi - I am restoring a '64 Atlas and have an unusual problem: the front sits a lot higher than the back (all pictures I have seen show the frame fairly level). <...> Any suggestions on what might be wrong?

It might be an idea to have your frame's steering head checked. Maybe the bike had an accident while in previous ownership?

-Knut

 

[texasSlick]

As best I can measure it with an adjustable protractor, my '63 Atlas steering head is 24.5 degrees. Thus it seems yours is correct.

What size tires do you have F & R?

Slick

 

[mdt-son]

As best I can measure it with an adjustable protractor, my '63 Atlas steering head is 24.5 degrees. Thus it seems yours is correct.

With several factors that come into play, the steering head angle should be measured on a bare frame, not a rolling chassis. Spring length for the Roadholder fork shall be 18.687" according to the NOC. Are your rear dampers of the correct type? Unloaded length shall be 11.9 in and the spring rate 110 lbs/in.

-Knut