Charon wrote on 09/26/10 at 20:37:52:I don't think I would want to use any grease on those rubber dampers, because grease might collect dirt and turn abrasive. I'd use a silicone spray, graphite, talc, mica, or something else dry. They aren't supposed to move, anyway. They compress or relax to smooth engine power pulses.
By the way, chain drive bikes use them, too, and for the same reason.
You are absolutely right about not greasing them. Clean the inside of the hub, wash the rubber dampers with soap and water and put it back together. You should do it every time you change your tire. It's called a cush drive and most bikes have them now. Even my shaft drive Guzzi's.