Steering "detent"

[wapam]

I have an '80 XS1100SG which seems to have a "detent" in the steering with the front wheel pointed straight ahead. Meaning I have to exert extra force to get the wheel to turn (left or right). If I put the bike on the centerstand and move the handlebars, I can feel a "notch" when the wheel is straight ahead.

I have seen some posts that say the steering bolt is too tight...could it be that easy? Just looking for a little guidance before jumping in.

Thank you to all.

[Ken Talbot]

Yes, the "steering bolt" is probably too tight (actually it is two large castellated nuts). But, if it feels like it has a notch, it may have been so tight for so long that there is now a dent in one of the races, or a flat spot on one of the roller bearings. It will be easy to loosen, but getting rid of the notch might be a bit trickier.

[prometheus578]

Notch in the steering means new steering bearings.
If ya can feel the notch when the wheel's in the air... you can imagine what's goin' on when the wheel's on the ground, with about 300lbs worth of weight helping to hold that ball bearing in that notch.
Hard to steer.. bike will always want to track straight, while you're trying to make normal, small road corrections.

[wapam]

Thanks for the advice, guys.

Assuming I need to replace the bearings, is this what I need:

http://www.oldbikebarn.com/Smooth-SS...ngsBearings_11

Thank you.

[bikerphil]

bearings

I've seen them much cheaper than that. I bought some recently from Dennis Kirk and they were $29.99 (All Balls brand), they come with the 2 seals too. Unbelievable how much better they ride with new head bearings.

[oldyam80sg]

That website has a pretty cool cafe fairing.Thanks!

[wapam]

The general consensus seems to be to replace the bearings/seals/races all at the same time. Is there a kit out there that has all of these items together? The ones I'm finding seem to be missing one of the components.


Thanks to all.

[bikerphil]

stem bearings

The races always come with new bearings. Sometimes it's the seals that aren't included. Link for Dennis Kirk.....

http://denniskirk.com/jsp/product_ca...Id=&mmyId=1029

[prometheus578]

Use the All Balls brand.

[wapam]

Re: stem bearings

Originally posted by bikerphil
The races always come with new bearings. Sometimes it's the seals that aren't included. Link for Dennis Kirk.....

http://denniskirk.com/jsp/product_ca...Id=&mmyId=1029

Looking at the picture, are the bearings sitting in the races already? The description only lists 2 bearings and 2 seals as being included.

Thanks

[prometheus578]

Wapam....
Bearings come with the races.
Been using All Balls for years when I worked at a dealership.
The part number for the bearings for our bikes comes with the races.
Pictures don't show everything.