Pulling to the right???

[uofkis1st]

What would cause a bike to pull to the right at low speeds (meaning in 1st, around 15mph)? I can hear the normal, or at least I think it is normal rear break noise, almost like a squeaking rub as the rear wheel rotates, and it usually happens when I'm coasting to a stop. Luckily I'm no dare devil that lets loose of the handle bars, because if I had, I'd be in a ditch, trying to get the bike out. The bike has 4500 miles on it, I've checked the brake components, no mods, and I'm a 165lbs rider. Any input would be appreciated. Ride safe everyone.

[Weo]

What's your riding experience? Are you using the front brake when you come to a stop? Minor changes in bar direction when coming to a stop while using the front brake can cause the bike to veer (or fall) in the direction the bars are angled.

If this is the case, remember "eye's forward" and "bars straight" while coming to a stop using the front brake. If you are a more experienced rider and know its not that then I don't know. Does it happen when you use the rear brake only at slow speed, i/e/ parking lots?

[xllent01]

Check for low tire pressures..........the squeaking sound in the rear is the rotor rubbing on the brake pads from H-D not using a floating brake system on the Sportsters........this is NORMAL.........they all do it!!

[uofkis1st]

Originally Posted by Weo

What's your riding experience? Are you using the front brake when you come to a stop? Minor changes in bar direction when coming to a stop while using the front brake can cause the bike to veer (or fall) in the direction the bars are angled.

If this is the case, remember "eye's forward" and "bars straight" while coming to a stop using the front brake. If you are a more experienced rider and know its not that then I don't know. Does it happen when you use the rear brake only at slow speed, i/e/ parking lots?

I've got a few years of dirt biking under my belt, but just over a year of street experience. It only happens when I'm coasting, no brakes applied. I'll check my tire pressure, I don't do that enough. I was just wondering if there was anything mechanical, besides the brakes dragging that would cause it. But it confused me because both brake units are on the left side of the wheels. I'll start with the simple stuff though, by checking the tire pressure. Thanks for both of your quick responses.

[Weo]

Someone started a thread recently about his friend's Sportster randomly pulling to the side. I can't remember what section its in, but it might have some suggestions.

[MWD]

If it were my bike, I'd start with the Critical Fastener list in the service manual.

Are we talking about the bike's forks *steering* the bike slightly in one direction, or are we talking the whole bike *drifting* slightly in one direction?

[revnd]

Rear wheel out of line?. Front forks and triple tree might need a reset?