Motorcycle Repair: front end noise, damper rod, proper lubrication

Question
Hello, this isn't on a honda, but the other guy specializes in harleys, so I thought you could help.  I have a 1992 yamaha FZR 1000.  It is in excellent shape with 21,000 miles on it.   Just recently I have had a rubbing, grinding noise in the front end when riding, which is getting worse.  I quit riding it and have been trying to track down the source.  It almost sounds like something plastic is rubbing and grinding, but I have tore the fairing off and cannot find anything rubbing on anything.  It does it on and off as I go down the road.  Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.  I have a childrens charity ride coming up in a couple weeks and want to get it going by then.   Also, I have a shaking/ vibration in the handle bars when the noise is going on and stops when it stops.   Thanks   Don

Answer
Don, I would first suggest changing your fork oil and see what comes out. If it is all gray and metallic looking, perhaps something has come adrift inside the fork assembly, like a damaged spring or damper rod.

Next best bet, and probably the real cause IMHO, is that the steering head bearings may be very loose/damaged from failure to maintain proper lubrication and adjustment.

If you feel clicking/clunking especially when you get on and off the brakes, the problem is probably steering head bearings. If the bike has a centerstand, put up so you can grab the front forks and push forward and back to check for looseness.

Bill Silver