Suzuki V-Strom (VStrom) Owners Club DL250, DL650, DL1000 & DL1050

V-Strom specific discussion => V-Strom specific discussion => Topic started by: robsonthejob on August 23, 2016, 11:40:46

Title: Notchy steering head bearings
Post by: robsonthejob on August 23, 2016, 11:40:46

Hi - Phoned my local bike shop (small place 2 old blokes run it) they advised that backing off the bearings a small amount may prolong the life of the bearings.

Took the front wheel off to swap the tyre and noticed the issue.

Any one seen this work ?

Also what's the best bearing type/make to go for - thanks blokes !!!!

Title: Re: Notchy steering head bearings
Post by: Rich:-) on August 23, 2016, 13:13:38

Yes, but if it's notchy then you have corrosion lines in the races, it probably also means the grease is holding water so it's likely just going to get worse.
I've done this as a stop-gap until I could get around to replacing them.

Bearings - find out what they are and search ebay for a quality brand of them.
Loads of good quality makes out there SKF, NTN, NSK, Timken, FAG, Koyo etc...

These are a good shop to use if you'd rather just go to an online shop http://simplybearings.co.uk/

Title: Re: Notchy steering head bearings
Post by: robsonthejob on August 23, 2016, 13:59:20

will have a dig - thanks

Title: Re: Notchy steering head bearings
Post by: greywolf on August 23, 2016, 14:29:15

Notchy means the bearings have dimpled. They need to be replaced. Backing off is really bad advice. It's best to replace the stock ball bearings with 32006 tapered roller bearings. See https://blacklabadventures.com/2012/02/28/steering-stem-bearing-replacement-upgrade/

I would use Japanese, American or Western European manufactured bearings though. All-Balls bearings come from China and the quality control there is spotty. Two 32006 bearings and the lower Suzuki dust cover are all the parts required. The upper dust cover is undamaged in the process but the lower one gets destroyed with the old bearing removal.

Title: Re: Notchy steering head bearings
Post by: wurzel on August 23, 2016, 14:42:25

As Greywolf advises, replace with good quality items, no way round it, remember it's the main link between the two wheels, and central to the bikes steering and handling.

Title: Re: Notchy steering head bearings
Post by: Robotstar5 on August 23, 2016, 14:55:06

Another vote for upgrading to taper roller bearings, just make sure they are a decent brand.

Title: Re: Notchy steering head bearings
Post by: tallpaul on August 23, 2016, 16:48:50

I fitted taper rollers to mine over the winter. Of all the jobs I did to the bike this one was the most...erm...entertaining. Getting the old bottom inner race off was only possible because I had a dremel. Getting the new bottom inner race fitted with the kit I had available at home was a tw@ of a job. If you have access to a suitable press it will make the job far easier. Also, the slotted round nuts that secure/ set the tension on the bearings are made if aluminium. Don't just welly them with a drift, use the correct size 'C' spanner and you will be a happy camper when you reassemble it all...

Have fun!