steering head bearings?

[david.vfr]

My 1999 VFR steering catches dead center…felt when coming to stop (10-0 mph) as if there is a divot in the center. There is no slop in the steering stem just the “catch” in center. Has anyone else experienced this or do I need new steering head bearings?
Thanks,
David

[KC-10 FE]

Mine certainly doesn't do that. I would definitely check the bearings. They aren't too expensive & not too hard to change.

KC-10 FE out...

[david.vfr]

I think the races have been "dented" but not sure, just wanted to make sure.
Thanks,
David

[KC-10 FE]

If you do end up changing them, remember that you can do as much damage by not putting the new ones in correctly as leaving bad ones in. If you have mechanical experience, you'll be fine. If not, bearing races can be a total pain in the butt to install without screwing them up. Use a brass punch.

KC-10 FE out...

[david.vfr]

Thanks for the tips. I also found a lesson on youtube...
http://youtube.com/watch?v=CRVhPmb7qXo&feature=related
that seems to have helpful information.
Thanks,
David

[hatzyian]

I had the same notch feel with my bike, changed the bearings for taper roller type. The difference is amazing, you don't notice how bad the steering has got as it gets worse slowly.

Changing the bearings wasn't a hard job, get some alloy or brass drifts, plus you can use the old races to hit on when fitting the new ones.

[david.vfr]

Thanks for the info. I found stock Honda head bearings for under $30 each. How much are the taper roller bearings and where can I purchase a set? Also can I use Honda races or can I purchase the correct races with the taper roller bearings?
Thanks,
David

[squirrelman]

So how many miles (or kms) on your '99??

Obviously, the wear shows up first in the straight-ahead position.

Note that it's important to PACK new bearings properly by hand with quality bearing grease using the classic method.....you ever pack wheel bearings on a car??

The ball bearings provide better "feel" of the front end, but tapered rollers last much longer, need less adjustment.

After new bearings are installed they might need minimal re-tightening after 1000-2000 miles.

[david.vfr]

I have 33000 miles on this 1999 VFR. In high school we had jeeps and blazers, a lot of 4X4 "mudding". So I have packed wheel bearings but that was under supervision of a friend a long long long time ago. I am glad you said ball bearings give a better feel because thats what I would prefer. As far as the grease I have BEL-RAY waterproof grease that I purchased from a local motorcycle dealer for about $6.
Thanks,
David