What Is Active Trail on a Motorcycle and How Do I Measure It?

Most riders only measure their chassis while the bike is suspended in the air on jacks. This gives you your static numbers. But it is amazing how much more important—and more useful—it is to know your active trail rather than your static trail.

Active trail is the measurement of your chassis geometry while you are actually applying load to the bike. To measure this properly, you cannot use traditional methods. You have to use a dedicated chassis tool that mounts directly to the frame.

Try this experiment: Sit on your bike with the tool in place. Sit upright, comfortable, exactly how you normally sit. Have a helper measure your tool and forks. Now, before you get off, lean forward into a tuck, exactly like you are heading into a turn. Have your helper measure your tool and forks again.

Wait until you see how different those numbers are. Your riding position drastically changes your active trail. A proper chassis tool takes into consideration your gearing, chain length, rear ride height, fork length, fork position, and your triple clamp inserts, all while the bike is under active load.