QuestionI have a 1996 CBR 900RR that I ride everyday and do a track day once a month. I recently changed out the front fork springs (RaceTech to RaceTech) from .95 kg/mm to 1.1 kg/mm, new 7wt. oil and RaceTech Gold Valves at standard stiffness. I have an Ohlins rear shock that I have been told needs to be resprung and revalved for my weight. I was at 260 now over 300 but have not changed it yet.
With that said, since the work up front was done, I took it to the track and it was pushing wide out of turns. I added more pre-load to the rear spring and it solved that problem. But since I put it back on the streets, I've noticed that at low speed turns in town, the front end feels like it wants to "twist" or turn it's self into the turn, it feels like it wants to "dive" into right handers too soon. I'm not sure why? I backed the rear pre-load out and it got better but not gone.
I replaced the steering head bearings two years ago with AllBallz but have not checked the steering head nut lately but I don't think it's loose.
AnswerHi Ron,
Way to give the details! Anyway, it doesn't sound to me like its in the pre-load or rebound at all, I have had this happen, and it sounds to me like if the steering head bearings werent re-adjusted after the install, they may have worn a groove in the outer race. And without really noticing the change (because it comes on gradually) when you DO try slightly turning, you end up trying harder without realizing it, thus driving the front end into the corners harder.
Try putting the front end in the air, keep the front end straight, and with your hand on the tire, very easily moving the wheel from side to side, you SHOULD feel the groove im talking about...if/when you do feel it, the steering head races and bearings need to be replaced..
Hope this helps!
~Mark Panka
