New User - Bike Squashed by Transit Van! :-(

Discussion in 'Technical Help' started by AndyD, Apr 26, 2015.

  1. AndyD

    AndyD New Member

    Apr 26, 2015
    0
    1
    Cornwall
    Hi All, just want to say hi, I am new here so be gentle :)

    A couple of weeks ago a transit van decided to park itself on the back of my '01 Daytona 955i, the insurance gave it a cat C write off as its cosmetic damage only so I now have the bike back and a pile of cash.
    On the inspection sheet they are saying that it needs a new rear frame. Now, I have loads of experience with mechanics as I used to build minis as a hobby so I am not a novice but the question I have is...

    How do I determine if the rear frame is indeed twisted or otherwise broken? I have visually inspected it and I cannot see any signs of weakened welds, paint crack of evidence of movement. The left hand rear panel doesn't quite sit right next to the middle panel near the seat but I think that is because the rear panel is twisted.
    The other panels on the rear are not quite right at the top over the rear light but again I suspect the plastics have been distorted rather than the frame. What I need is a relatively definitive answer before I go pulling it all apart.

    Also from a safety point of view, if the rear frame is slightly off will it affect the ride? On looking the suspension etc is all connected to the front frame so in my opinion it shouldn't but I would like to know from someone more experienced than myself.

    Thank you in advance!

    Many thanks
    Andy
     
  2. thebiglad

    thebiglad Old fart, still riding !

    Sep 25, 2013
    5,068
    1,000
    Central France
    Hi Andy, first of all, welcome to the Triumph Playground.

    Now, about your lovely bike. After visualinspection the rear frame looks OK then there's not a huge lot wrong with it. Also you are absolutely right that it's only purpose is support a pillion passenger and bodywork.

    If I were you I would work out a way where the bike was on it's wheels but held perfectly upright, then I would precise measurements to establish if/by how much, the rear frame is twisted.

    If it is twisted you can use a scaffy pole or similar to GENTLY straighten it out.

    Cheers and good luck

    Dave
     
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