steering head bearing

[odewing]

I was wondering if there was a quick check of the steering head bearing? There's no play when i hit the front brake, but there's a wobble at slow speed ( 1st gear one hand, the other turning on radio ). Should the steering be stiffer or is normal because of the newly added weight of the fairings? Or, is that a sign of not enough air in forks? What would that check be.

[bustedwing]

With the bike on the center stand grab the front tire and try to pull up. If the head bearing is bad you will feel play in the top of the column. Also check the turning at the same time, make sure you don't hear or feel any grinding. The turn should be smooth all the way from stop to stop. And you can check the wheel bearing too, spin the tire listening for noises, grab the wheel at opposite angels and try to rock the tire. If there is any play at all remove and replace the front bearings. I hope I have helped you, and if you have any further questions please don't be afraid to ask. Good luck.

[WingAdmin]

Checking your steering head bearings is a fairly simple task. Use a trolley jack or motorcycle lift to lift the front wheel off the ground when the bike is on the center stand. Have someone hold the bike steady, and while sitting in front of the wheel as shown, attempt to push the wheel forward and backward, as well as rocking it from side to side. There should be no movement of any kind. If you are able to move the wheel, the bearings are in need of attention.

In addition, turn the handlebars from side to side while the front wheel is off the ground. The wheel should turn smoothly, with no binding or "clicks" felt.

[odewing]

Thanks for the info. I have a question....Does it matter that my forks are 1100 standard with no cross piece above the fender joining the two fork legs?

[WingAdmin]

Thanks for the info. I have a question....Does it matter that my forks are 1100 standard with no cross piece above the fender joining the two fork legs?

That's called a Fork Brace, and it is an aftermarket item, so no, it won't matter. See this thread: viewtopic.php?f=10&t=17771

[Missourimike]

And it could well be just your tire. Look closely at the tread and see if there is any "cupping". There are theories galore, as to why this happens. My front Dunlop did this before 10K miles.