Vibration

[BrianB]

I have been hearing a vibration lately and have finally pined it down. It is from the left fork and when I tap on the front fender, it sounds like a spring vibrating against the inside of the fork tubes in the upper part. Does that sound like maybe a broken spring, no oil, ??? Is it safe to ride till I get it fixed. Exterior of forks looks rock solid.

[planedick]

Not safe enough for me....

Having a problem with the fork tubes might be OK if you always go easy, but just when you need stability most, like in a panic stop, you lose big time.

[Rasputin]

I recently installed new fork springs on my XS1100SF. The instructions do say that sometimes the manual will state to install the close wound end towards the bottom. This apparently reduces spring noise. It is possible yours are just making this noise but I would certainly be checking it out before riding any serious miles. It is not that hard to pull them out and have a look see. Changing the fork oil is not a bad idea anyways as mine was full of chunky stuff as well as oil. You dont even need to take em off the bike to check springs. Simply jack the front end up under the motor using a wooden block till the front forks are in the air. I had to remove my handlebars. Then let any air out of your forks if they are so equipped. Screw the fork cap off and pull the springs. The trick i found was to find the starting point of the fork cap threads to make it easier to replace them. Simply turn them backwards till you feel the click of the threads and make note of that spot. As for the whole full meal deal for changing the fork oil/ seals/ springs etc, do a search or ask as others who know way more than I will surely come to your rescue.

[BrianB]

Thanks for the input guys. Guess I should check out the fork oil condition as well.