Motorcycle Repair: Swing Arm adjustment on 1996 Harley Davidson Softail, rear wheel bearings, wheel spokes

Question
The back of the bike feels like there is a shimmy / wobble, especially when going around corners.  I have been told that the swing arm, or shocks need to be adjusted or bearings need replaced.  Occasionally swing arm bottoms out.  Please give me some ideas about what you think the problem is.  If it is the shocks I need to have some idea about how to adjust them.
The tires have less than 500miles on them.  I have checked the spokes and they are fine.

Answer
Hi John,

Check the swingarm bushings and rear wheel bearings for the usual wear and excessive play. Check wheel spokes (if applicable) and tire wear.

You may need the service manual for procedures.


Here's  afew H-D tech resoures:

www.harley-performance.com/harley-tech-tips.html

www.bikernet.com/garage/

http://groups.msn.com/HarleyTechTalk/techtalk5.msnw

http://mywebpages.comcast.net/kodis/sportster/tips.html

Respectfully,
Mark Shively