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neck bearings or forks?

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Old Dec 6, 2015 | 03:38 PM
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Default neck bearings or forks?
Hello, I have a 2000 roadglide with a little over 100,000 miles. I put all the mileage on and had it for 15 years. Never had any issue like this. When making a left, the handlebars want to turn in that direction. Same with the right but not as hard. I just jacked it up today and noticed the steering goes harder left than the right. When I turn them to the left and leave go, wheel swings to the right then comes left going past center than goes right to the center(a little past center to the right). Not sure where to start on this. Been riding motorcycles for over 40 years and never experienced this before. Problem just started a couple weeks ago but today it felt worse. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks
 
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Old Dec 6, 2015 | 03:44 PM
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Sounds like steering head bearings need to be replaced. If it were sloppy on both sides I would say you might be able to just adjust it. Have you checked for cable tension or binder differences from side to side?
 
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Old Dec 6, 2015 | 03:51 PM
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The clutch cable mounts to the left fork but I disconnected it before I tried it. Nothing else binding that I know of
 
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Old Dec 6, 2015 | 04:21 PM
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I would look to replace the neck bearings...Over a 100k miles is a good indicator that perhaps its time.
 
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Old Dec 6, 2015 | 04:23 PM
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Yeah, I was thinking the same thing twistr. Looks like I have a winter project coming up.
 
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Old Dec 6, 2015 | 04:58 PM
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It may help to disconnect the clutch cable, to reduce that influence, also check that there is no other item that may give a lop-sided feel. Otherwise I agree, new bearings are in order, after which if you can check fall away at every stage of your rebuild, to make sure everything is just right.
 
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Old Dec 6, 2015 | 07:23 PM
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how about grease first? I don't know really. good luck.
kroozeabout.
 
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Old Dec 6, 2015 | 08:43 PM
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Thinkin about rebuilding swing arm and front end. Replace neck bearings and get rid of the air over oil fork suspension. Looking at progressive gas cartridge kit for forks. 2000 rg's have bushings in swingarm and there are kits to install bearings instead. I plan on another 100,000 miles out of her. Might as well do it right.
 
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