Steering instability

I have 2001 DS. Is there any way to fix the unstable steering feeling that I get when going down a steep hill with out changing the stock upper A-arms?

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Make sure that your toe (out) is correct. It should be between 1/8 and 1/2 inch toed out. That will make all the diff in the world.

 

Set front shock sag first, for your weight, 'cause toe changes throughout suspension travel. Ideally, I've found that the best steering handling comes from 2 to 2-1/2 inches of sag on the front shocks, and 1/8" toe-out which must be measured with you on the bike in normal riding position. Add to that new tires, and throw the dominators in the trash. Some guys like a little more toe-out, like eaglecollector, but any amount of toe-in sucks big time.

 

I got a question for you hightower.
If i buy new front tires should i also buy new rims, are douglas rims off set like the new rims on the baja? Is it worth the Extra $$$$ to buy off set rims?

Thanks
Nick

 

I've been told that the new Baja rim offset, which makes the front a little narrower, helps improve handling too, but I haven't had the chance to ride a Baja to find out, and even if I did I wouldn't be able to tweek the suspension and toe for my weight just for a quick spin, so I really couldn't compare.
The magazine articles rave about how much better the Baja handles, but how much of that is due to the tires/rims/a-arms remains in debate.
I'm not sure what offsets Douglass offers, I haven't looked into it. I know they offer a variety of offsets for the hondas, maybe they do for the DS too.
I know that the tires alone will make a good difference, they did for me, and if the rims make it even better and the loss of width doesn't bother you, then get 'em.