Steering Head

Adjustment

See Steering Head Bearings for Steering head adjustment.

Removal

1.      Remove the front wheel, front forks, windscreen, handlebars and meter assembly.

2.      Remove the stem bolt and steering crown.

1 Steering stem bolt

3. Remove the lock washer, top fitting nut (ring nut) and rubber damper.

1. Lock washer

1. Top fitting nut

1. Rubber damper

4. Support the steering stem (under bracket) and remove the bottom fitting nut (ring nut).

5. Remove the bearings.

Inspection

1.      Wash the bearings in solvent.

2.      Inspect the bearings for pitting or other damage. Replace the bearings if pitted or damaged. Replace the races when bearings are replaced.

3.      Clean and inspect the bearing races. Spin the bearings by hand. If the bearings are not smooth in their operation in the races, replace bearings and races.

Reassembly

1.      Grease the bearings and races with wheel bearing grease.

2.      Install the steering stem (under bracket) and bearings.

3.      Install the bottom fitting nut. Tighten it to approximately 10 — 12 Nm (1.0 — 1.2 mkg, 7.2 ~~ 8.7 ft-lb). Do not over tighten it. Tighten the top fitting nut.

4.      Continue reassembly in the reverse of disassembly order.

5.      When assembly is complete, check the steering stem by turning it from lock to lock. If there is any binding or looseness, readjust the steering stem tightness.

Steering stem bolt torque: 110Nm (11.0 m-kg, 80 ft lb)