Wheel dampeners ?

[suejenn]

I noticed when I installed a new rear tire on my 2012 ST1300 that, with the bike in 1st gear and not running and on the center stand, I can move the tire back and forth with my hand as much as 2 inches. The bike has 23,000 miles. Is that normal and if not what would cause that much travel? thanks for any suggestion, Tony

 

[Willsmotorcycle]

I don't know normal, but I just went out to see mine, inch plus, 70k

 

[Larry Fine]

Yes, some play is normal. There is normal play in the rear drive and the clutch and transmission.

 

[dduelin]

My ST1300 had 1.75” play if I recall correctly. Depending on how one measures it will vary owner report to owner report. I made a little gauge out of a foam cup with a straw through it and measured with it from time to time up to 180,000 miles. No change.

I replaced the rubber biscuits 3 times at about 50,000 miles each. The play at the rim of the wheel includes the gears, gearbox reduction gears and U-joint splines. I think a 23,000 mile bike is essentially still brand new in wear items.

 

[Obo]

I'm hoping the OP means they can rotate it 2" and not move it 2" side to side or front to back.

Some rotation is normal.

 

[SMSW]

Your free play sounds normal.

 

[suejenn]

Thanks to everyone for their input. I do appreciate your help.