Front end shake
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Novice
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 22
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From: allen
Front end shake
Just bought a used 2011 ultra classic. Overall rides very well but when I get up about 80 it seems the front end has shake or bobbing feeling. Has any one else experienced something like this? What could it be and what is the fix.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 2,530
Likes: 546
From: Wayne County, PA
I'm with Bill on checking the tire. Check the tires date code. If you have a lift you could check wheel movement(play side to side) to see if the wheel bearings are ok. Might be worth changing the fork oil too. Its been 5 years might as well and fork oil is the one fluid most people forget to change.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 9,987
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From: Michigan
Check your air pressure and if you can elevate your front wheel off of the floor spin the tire/wheel and watch to see that there is no wobble (side-to-side) or "bounce" (up and down) movement.
If your tires are relatively new with no visible defects or damage I would suspect that the tire was improperly balanced or just needs re-balancing.
It has been my experience that you can detect an imbalance at speeds 40-50 MPH but you won't know until you have them checked.
Wheels should also be checked on a truing stand but I will say that I've been riding for many years and I've only had to replace one front rim (21") due to hitting some concrete debris on the freeway.
If your tires are relatively new with no visible defects or damage I would suspect that the tire was improperly balanced or just needs re-balancing.
It has been my experience that you can detect an imbalance at speeds 40-50 MPH but you won't know until you have them checked.
Wheels should also be checked on a truing stand but I will say that I've been riding for many years and I've only had to replace one front rim (21") due to hitting some concrete debris on the freeway.
Elite HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2007
Posts: 4,271
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From: Green Country,Oklahoma
You didn't say the mileage but at about 50 thousand front end needs to be rebuilt. Use the Screaming Eagle heavy weight oil , you will not believe the difference. If you take to a shop or do it yourself also check your neck bearings just to be sure. Not knowing the history of the bike , might check wheel bearings also. Lot's of folks use the high pressure at a car wash, might have gotten in and ruined your wheel bearings.
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