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General Category >> Rubber Side Down! >> Fork streering bearings...
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Message started by sdlc808 on 08/18/11 at 13:55:43

Title: Fork streering bearings...
Post by sdlc808 on 08/18/11 at 13:55:43

So I took my 2006 S40 in for its 7500 mile service and the mechanic tells me that my fork bearings need to be replaced ($350). Since I never noticed any unusual performance with my steering I borrowed my friends jack and jacked up the bike. There was absolutely no play or hesitation when turning left to right or pulling/pushing on the fork. I no longer trust that shop anymore.

Title: Re: Fork streering bearings...
Post by serenity3743 on 08/18/11 at 13:59:52

From my own experience, the only reason to replace those bearings is if you have a frontal impact which knocks the rollers loose. That's what I discovered after I plowed into the rear bumper of a van at a red light. I could feel some squirrelly vibration when leaning into curves and it was the bearings, so I fixed 'em.

I suppose they could also dry out if the bike sits for an extended time also.

Oh, and it shouldn't cost anywhere near $350 - parts were less than $30.

Title: Re: Fork streering bearings...
Post by Sunchasers on 08/18/11 at 14:44:28

23343C33686068500 wrote:

+1 Mine is an '87 with about 8300 miles. My fork bearings are original and just fine. Can't imagine your '06 needing them...unless they were improperly installed at the factory, but I think you would notice something not being right when you tested it. ;)

Title: Re: Fork streering bearings...
Post by verslagen1 on 08/18/11 at 15:21:07

I've got an '88 that had bad bearings.
Took it apart, scotch bright the races and put it back together.
like new.

While the parts are only $30, getting them out is a be otch.

Title: Re: Fork streering bearings...
Post by markbacon on 08/18/11 at 16:32:45

Somewhere near 40,000 km my steering head bearings were toast, but that was year-round, 120 km-worth of daily commute. So they'd seen a lot of high speed in heavy rain. Seems like the dust cover over the top bearing is not enough to keep water out, but the seal under the bottom bearing is enough to keep it in ... for a while anyway. All the grease had washed out and races were badly rust pitted and worn. When I replaced the bearings I used copious amounts of the most water proof grease I could find and left the bottom seal out.

Hadn't realised how much fear the notchy/sticky steering had been producing.

Oh ... there's no way you're getting the bottom race off the head stem, or fitting the new one, yourself. Verrry big press required.

Title: Re: Fork streering bearings...
Post by justin_o_guy2 on 08/18/11 at 17:46:14

You keep it outside? Do YOU think they need replaced? Turn the wheel to one lock, hold the brake, push & pull,, feel clacking? If so, get in to the bearings & lube them, then tighten it up & rock the front left & right, then, after youve made the bearings let go of the crap, adjust it so it moves freely, but doesnt clack,