Detent in Steering Head

[electrajoe]

Looking for opinions:

I put my 1991 ST1100, 44K miles on the center stand, used a wood block and jack to lift the front wheel. Turning the bar left, right and back seems smooth, except at center there seems to be a "home" notch.

Guys on another board advised it is the bearings. I agree, probably a grove in the race and worn bearing. It does not feel too bad just a slight feeling of finding home when centered with the front wheel in the air, can't feel it when ridding. Problem is the bike is perfect on the road, straight and in twisties. It seems as if I think the bike does it. I don't want the handling to change.

Seems like the replacement is is a real bear to do. What are the ramifications if I don't change the bearings and races for a while?

[Dave Wicks]

:04biker: That is already affecting the handling you may just be used to it. With fresh bearings properly adjusted you will notice a difference. It used to be that we would change out ball bearings for roller bearings, more bearing surface, smoother operating..seems to be less popular now, who knows?? Little trick when removing the parts of the bearing races that are pressed into the steering neck. Light heat on steering neck, not races..easy now that's aluminum...sorry that's an St 1100..When you want to put new races in..place them in freezer until just before you want to install them..If your a Canadian, just put them outside. The slight difference hot and cold makes..really helps...not a huge deal lots of grease...tighten them...ride a bit tighten again..
Good Lick.Dave

[Quickmike]

Hey- Wait a minute- Isn't that just the "Look Ma...no hands!!!" notch that enables you to let go of the bars for trick riding? I thought all the STs came with that. ;)