Tank slapper

A tank slapper is when the front end starts shaking so hard that the handlebars swing violently from side to side, sometimes hitting the tank. It usually begins when the front wheel goes light and lands slightly out of line, for example over a crest, a bump under hard acceleration or a rut.

Contributing factors include worn or loose steering head bearings, poor tyre condition or pressures, badly set suspension, heavy luggage at the rear and a missing or poorly adjusted steering damper.

If it happens, keep a loose grip, do not fight the bars, stay off the front brake and roll off the throttle smoothly or keep it steady. A steering damper and a well-maintained front end are the best prevention.