| Author | Message | ||
     Cheesebeast |
Howdy All, I have noticed a change in the ride quality of my bike's front end (2003 XB9R). The bike now bucks quite a bit over irregular pavement, when before it felt quite planted. I have not changed any settings (the bike was set to the settings for my weight listed in the owner's manual). What is odd is on cool mornings when I ride the suspension feels a lot more like it used to. I guess the fork oil would be cool at that point. I have done some basic safety checks- the fork seals are fine and there is nothing loose that I can detect in the steering head. I have also verified that the tire pressure settings are correct. What should I check first? Damping? Thanks, Cheese (Message edited by cheesebeast on July 23, 2007) | ||
| Gentleman_jon |
I see that you have a 2003 model. If you have not changed the fork oil, ( many people do not), now might be a good time to do it. I believe Saintly has posted a do it yourself method. Otherwise taking it to a suspension specialist, rather than a Harley dealer, is always prudent, as "real" Harleys do not use this type of fork. While you are at it, you might want to consider heavier springs if you are an aggressive, or heavier rider, or both. Grandstand Designs, has an exchange/upgrade/service that you might want to look into. | ||
| Cheesebeast |
Howdy Gentleman_jon, I haven't changed the fork oil yet (I am right under 10K), but it is on the "to do" list. Thanks for the lead to Grandstand Designs. I weigh about 170lbs wearing all my gear, so I don't know if I am "overpowering" the suspension. Regardless, I cite my Fifth Amendment protections against self incrimination regarding any reports of me riding aggressively... | ||
| Deltablue |
Also take a look a the steering head bearings It's been commented on a number of times that loose head bearings cause front end shake, especially under breaking. Also what tires are you running? If you are still using the stock dunlops that could very well be your problem. | ||
| Cheesebeast |
Howdy Deltablue, I am using Pirelli Scorpion Syncs. I tossed the factory tires ASAP. I will jack up the front end and check the head bearings. I expect the procedure is in the service manual. Thanks, Cheese | ||
| Deltablue |
The head bearings are simple especially on an R I would just tighten them anyway. The temperature changing the ride leads me to think Tire Pressure over Suspension. | ||
| 07xb12scg |
The temperature changing the ride leads me to think Tire Pressure over Suspension. I was typing something similar until I saw your post. I agree. Check the tire pressure as we know that temperature affects pressure. |
