Is a hardtail frame suitable for your motorcycle?
If you’re considering building a custom bike, you’ll need to determine whether to select a hardtail frame (also called a rigid frame) or a swing arm frame. Deciding on a frame should not be taken lightly because there are some significant differences in frame styles.
The hardtail frame is a one piece frame. The motorcycle’s rear wheel assembly connects directly to the frame, unlike a softtail frame which is made of two pieces of tubing connected at a pivot joint. That is the source of the nomenclature; the frame really has a hard tail. The result is that there is no rear suspension to give that “floating” feeling when riding.
Initially all motorcycles were hardtails. Bent tube frames allowed the rear hub to be attached through the one-piece frame. That’s still the way hardtails are put together today.
The Harley-Davidson Duo-Glide, released in 1958, provided riders with the first option to purchase a motorcycle with rear suspension. Purists, however, still love the ride and feel of the hardtail frame.
Jesse James, custom bike builder and owner of West Coast Chopper, in a recent documentary on the history of motorcycles, stated that he loves hardtails because they allow the rider to truly become part of the road. There is no ‘bounce’ and road vibrations are not absorbed by the bumps, giving a rich feel unlike swingarm motorcycle frames.
Stiff rear frames provide a somewhat rougher ride; People who experience back pain during long trips almost always avoid this style of chart. Kidney-shaking jolts can occur when hitting potholes. However, at present, most roads are relatively smooth.
Some people just love the ride that the rigid hardtail frame provides. Others really hate the differences in ride. The bottom line is that you want to select the right frame for your motorcycle based on your personal needs, expectations, and planned use.
If you want an off-road touring cycle, a hardtail may not be the right option for you. If you want to build the best custom display helicopter, this frame style might be perfect for you. If you’re young, have plenty of stamina, are in excellent physical condition, and don’t mind a little jolt to the kidneys, the hard frame is a viable option. However, if you want to travel from New York to California when you retire, chances are you’ll be much happier riding a smooth tail.
The choice of hard tail frame or soft tail frame is entirely a personal choice. Just remember, it takes a lot of work to change frames, so think about exactly what you expect from your bike before making a decision on whether a rigid frame is the best solution for your custom bike.
Copyright 2006 Tyler Powers
