2009 E. Glide front end problem/unstable
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Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 1,331
Likes: 13
2009 E. Glide front end problem/unstable
I have an 09 E. Glide with 1500 miles on it that I purchased the end of last year. I have noticed that lately the front end feels strange... like its not firmly planted on the ground. It only really seems to happen at highway speeds (which may be why I didn't notice it before since I didn't hit the freeway until 1k service). Anyways, the bike feels almost like its bouncing in the front, as though the front tire is just touching the ground. In tight curves it feels like its bouncing, or as if the tire is going flat. I re-checked air pressure, 40psi in the rear, and 37psi in the front. I have 12.5" Progressive 412 shocks in the rear and the front is stock. Any suggestions/thoughts?
Thanks!
Thanks!
It could be the front tire. HD has a service note out on it. The tread pattern on the 09 bagger's tires cause uneven wear and cupping of the front tire. As long as your tire isn't severly worn it should be replaced under warranty.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 1,331
Likes: 13
The bad tire was the 407, but mine came with the 408 so I know its not the tire (at least the normal tire issue on the 09's).
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Road Warrior
Joined: Sep 2008
Posts: 1,331
Likes: 13
Found out that there is a service bulletin out for the 09's steering bearing M-1246. Have an appt next Thursday to have it adjusted.
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Stellar HDF Member
Joined: Dec 2009
Posts: 2,035
Likes: 8
From: Western Canada
Your description is identical
to what I was feeling on my 09 FLHRC. It felt like the front end was 'floating' Got the 407 switched out today and I can feel the difference already. Also, on my first service they had to tighten the steering head because of excessive play so maybe that's what is happening to you.
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Road Master
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 834
Likes: 3
From: San Diego
Just a shot in the dark,
I had a problem with a "loose feeling" front wheel on a roadtrip a couple years back. Turned out, after checking the axle, the head bearings, tire pressure, and so on
Turned out, it was a loose front fender.
The front fender on baggers acts as a fork brace. If the bike is loaded it really needs the third link below the triples. Once I tightened the bolts on the fender it tightened up the ride considerably.
It may well not be your problem, but it is an easy check, and fix if it is the problem
Just thought u may want to add it to your troubleshooting checklist.
good luck!
I had a problem with a "loose feeling" front wheel on a roadtrip a couple years back. Turned out, after checking the axle, the head bearings, tire pressure, and so on
Turned out, it was a loose front fender.
The front fender on baggers acts as a fork brace. If the bike is loaded it really needs the third link below the triples. Once I tightened the bolts on the fender it tightened up the ride considerably.
It may well not be your problem, but it is an easy check, and fix if it is the problem
Just thought u may want to add it to your troubleshooting checklist.
good luck!
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