Muddyape,

My lower bearing slid right off, no pressing needed.

 

I removed mine to install a longer stem for the raked bearing cups. I just used a press and it came out. Andyes, they are stock trees.

 

hey dex is yours a 06 to 07???? how much rake was the bearing cups??

 

Guys,
That lower stock fork stem should NOT be removed! You will cause even the slightest amount of play in the fitment of the stem when reinstalled and could make for a SERIOUS problem later down the road. The factory freezes that stem and heats the lower tree to assemble them and the snap ring at the bottom just ensures it can't move if someone gets a little crazy tightening the stem nut.

I powder coat triple trees all the time and it doesn't take too long to mask off the stem. The bearing has to come off, but not the stem.

Dex0807 - I'd seriously consider replacing your lower tree. Some aftermarket trees are designed with screw in stems so you can replace them with longer/shorter ones, but not on the stock set up. There is a tremendous amount of force on that part so a perfect fit is critical.

 

I'm aware of the fitment required in the tree. If it is pressed the right way and done slowly and carefully, it can be done correctly. Plus a little bit of green loctite on the new shaft will take up the 1 or 2 thousands. These are motorcycles, not pianos. I bought mine to ride, not to look good in my garage.

Ventura, mine is a 98.