New to me - Speed Wobble?

[Scottie31]

I had a bad wobble in mine also. I just had the front tire replaced and the head bearings replaced today and now there is no wobble at all. Feels like a new bike.

[recumbentbob]

old video but very interesting.

[skiman]

Originally Posted by ringadingh

New bearings did not cure the wobble on my 2002, the only thing that provides some temporary relief is a new front tire.

Ring, did you use an All Balls kit? If so you may need a shim like a few of us have had to do. When I was seating the bearing I could get the bear to go tight no matter how much I tightened the nut, Installed a 1mm shim and all was well.

[Jllm02199]

Originally Posted by alabama498

The steeringhead bearings need to be replaced. I had a 09 nomad that had the same problem. Luverne Kawasaki in luverne Minnesota replaced them and it ran straight as a arrow. It was well worth it. My understanding is that the bearings that kawasaki used (not sure if they still use the same bearings) would wear out at 15 to 16000 miles. They used a different kind of bearing than the factory. That's probably why they sold it. couldn't find a mechanic that could diagnose the problem correctly.

Brad

My 02 still has the original bearings. I've had them apart twice and they look good. I put a grease fitting in the yoke many years ago. Keep them tight.
Now wobble since 03. 140,000 miles.

[radco]

My 2 cents! First I agree with everyone here ,my 04 no issues. but will add 1 more, Tire Balance! A out of balance tire will wobble at a certain speed and run nice at others! SO guess it pays to check them all just to be extra safe! Please post what you find. I see your in Ct. I grew up in Stratford and move to Maine in 90.. Miss the $$$$ I used to make do not miss the Rat Race :)
Rich

[Jllm02199]

Good point on the tire balance. That's why I run Dyna beads.
I cant say it enough, tighten the head nut.

[ringadingh]

Originally Posted by skiman

Ring, did you use an All Balls kit? If so you may need a shim like a few of us have had to do. When I was seating the bearing I could get the bear to go tight no matter how much I tightened the nut, Installed a 1mm shim and all was well.

I used bearings from the local supply shop, I could tighten them too much if I kept going. the steering bearings are set for smooth operation without being any tighter that they start getting tight and binding. Ive tried different settings and it doesn't seem to make a difference.

[radco]

Originally Posted by Jllm02199

Good point on the tire balance. That's why I run Dyna beads.
I cant say it enough, tighten the head nut.

I agree 110% Start at the easy point first then keep trying things from there :) I never used Dyna Beads but I hear most people like them