Vulcan Drifter Riders

DISCUSSIONS => Drifter 800 Only => Topic started by: Steve45 on August 28, 2021, 06:52:34 AM

Title: Larger passenger. Is the 800 up to the task?
Post by: Steve45 on August 28, 2021, 06:52:34 AM
Hi everyone. I?m currently in negotiation for a deal on a drifter 800 with the 2 up Corbin seat but I need a bit of advice from someone with more experience. I will be riding a decent amount with my wife as a passenger. I?m about 200lbs but my passenger will be about 280 (just a guess, not polite to ask!) My question is, would the rear mono shock be up to the task? Anyone had a similar load on the 800? Anything would be appreciated,
Thanks?
Steve
Title: Re: Larger passenger. Is the 800 up to the task?
Post by: mittico68 on August 28, 2021, 08:06:47 AM
I own a 800 and I've been riding together with my wife, many times.
But we weigh a lot less then you, so I can't help you.
Anyway, I've heard of many people of the same weight as you, having a smooth ride on a Drifter 800: all it takes is to harden the pre-load on the rear shock.
Title: Re: Larger passenger. Is the 800 up to the task?
Post by: Steve45 on August 28, 2021, 22:07:21 PM
Cool thank you. I definitely plan on doing that. I also plan on getting a new set of tires. Bike only has 4,700 miles and I believe they are the original tires. I don?t really want to load up the bike on 15 year old rubber..
Title: Re: Larger passenger. Is the 800 up to the task?
Post by: jack freeman on September 16, 2021, 23:07:12 PM
Read your owners manual or better still a shop manual will help . The tool you need in your tool pouch  its  is from left side .
Read your manual it will give the weight that the bike can handle . But a good rider knows what is safe . Enjoy

Thanks  Jack
Title: Re: Larger passenger. Is the 800 up to the task?
Post by: Troll on September 17, 2021, 07:49:24 AM
There should be a sticker on the frame with correct tire pressures and GVW/capacity written on it
Title: Re: Larger passenger. Is the 800 up to the task?
Post by: Hatchet54 on April 20, 2024, 01:06:15 AM
I wouldn't advise it. I did a fairly long trip with a girlfriend a couple of years ago on my 800, and the bike performed fine without complaint, but it definitely felt down on power and a bit "strung out" when going uphill. We were hard pressed to do much above 75. At the time, I was about 145-150 and my woman was in that same ballpark, so we were +/- 300lbs. The weight was noticeable. I would not expect the 800 to perform well with considerably more.