Front Wheel Bearings leaking???

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Oct 23, 2009 | 09:47 PM

09BlueRoadKing

Thread Starter

Road Captain

Joined: May 2008

Posts: 688

Likes: 2

From: Central Texas

Front Wheel Bearings leaking???

I have 4300 miles on my bike and the other day while cleaning her up noticed what looked like some kind of black looking stuff (kind of greasy feeling) around the right side of the front wheel bearing. Are the bearings sealed or could they leak?? Will be taking the bike in at 5000 for service will inquire about it then, was just wondering if anyone has any clue what it might be.

Oct 24, 2009 | 12:25 AM

BadPiggy

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Jul 2007

Posts: 3,410

Likes: 8

From: Knoxville, TN

Bearings are sealed.
Most likely it's anti-seize seeping from between the bearing and wheel.

I wouldn't sweat it.

Oct 24, 2009 | 07:00 AM

1flhtk4me

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Apr 2006

Posts: 10,675

Likes: 95

From: Billings,Mt.

It is possible for the seals to leak.

Oct 24, 2009 | 07:06 AM

n8dc

Stellar HDF Member

Joined: Mar 2007

Posts: 2,034

Likes: 45

From: Michigan

Ive seen a couple posts about this and yes the grease was leaking out of the bearings and eventually they failed. Now in no way am I suggesting thats what is happening with yours but if you havent yet is clean that area and keep a close eye on it.

Oct 24, 2009 | 07:08 AM

Notgrownup

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Mar 2009

Posts: 24,690

Likes: 9,179

From: Snow Hill, NC

They are just happy...

Oct 24, 2009 | 07:28 AM

Estil

Road Master

Joined: Nov 2008

Posts: 773

Likes: 24

From: Findlay, ohio

My front bearing went out at 15K miles. Service tech found when changing front tire and was covered by warranty. If you're taking in for service soon, I would have it checked.

Oct 24, 2009 | 08:07 AM

Seasoned HDF Member

Joined: Jan 2006

Posts: 11,467

Likes: 2,996

From: Charleston, SC

Your really going to need to inspect it a little closer. Check the sides of the bearings and ensure the black seals are not cracked. Is the material coming out between the bearing and spacer? Probably antiseize in that case.

Rub the material between your fingers... does it turn silverish/gray. If so thats antiseize...

lp

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Oct 24, 2009 | 09:12 AM

autochek

Advanced

Joined: Jul 2009

Posts: 95

Likes: 0

From: Easley, SC.

I had my front bearing done at 4800 miles and now at 5200 my bike is in the shop getting the rear done. Yes, people are having issues with them. Listen for a whine or roaring noise when leaning into a turn. If you hear anything, get it in right away.
My dealer also replaced the front tire at the same time. I am waiting to find out if the rear tire will be covered since it is severely cupped also.
BTW, do not use a power washer around the rims. The bearings are sealed, but the pressure will get water in there. This will lead to premature failure.