280 R.I. Code R. 280-RICR-30-15-4.21

Current through December 26, 2024

Section 280-RICR-30-15-4.21 - Suspension

A. Visually examine the suspension system for broken or defective springs and/or shock absorbers.

B. Check front end geometry to determine the angle of rake of the motorcycle (degrees of steering kingpin in relationship to level ground) and to determine steering trail of the front wheel (distance between projected line of kingpin to level ground and the vertical line of the front axle to ground, measured in inches.)

C. The angle of rake shall not be more than forty-five (45) degrees or less than twenty (20) degrees; the trail shall not be more than fourteen inches (14") positive or less than two inches (2") positive.

D. RAKE AND TRAIL MAY BE MEASURED AS FOLLOWS:

1. Place the cycle in your inspection lane on flat, smooth level ground in a straight upright position with both wheels in contact with the ground.

2. Place carpenter's square on floor with one outside edge against center of front wheel axle.

3. Place a straight edge along the center line of the steering head (kingpin) and extend it until it touches the ground. Be sure that the straight edge follows the center line of the steering head.

4. In order to measure the angle of rake, (shaded area in diagram) place the BASE CENTER of the protractor at the point where the carpenter's square intersects the straight edge and measure the angle formed in degrees.

5. The trail is the distance in inches between the axle vertical center line and the point where the straight edge touches the ground, (distance between A and B in diagram.) Be sure to keep the straight edge and the carpenter's square in the same position and measure the distance in inches between these two points at ground level.

E. Cause for rejection:

1. A rake more than forty-five (45) degrees;

2. A rake less than twenty (20) degrees;

3. A trail more than fourteen inches (14") positive;

4. A trail less than two inches (2") positive;

5. Broken, worn, missing, disconnected or any malfunctioning part(s) of the suspension system; or

6. Broken or missing suspension springs.

280 R.I. Code R. 280-RICR-30-15-4.21