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Followup To
Question -
Hi Mark, Hope you can help re this. I have a 1996 Honda Fireblade CBR900RRT. I have recently replaced the headset bearings (complete set) and replaced the fork oil. I have returned all of the settings to factory recommended specs. I am now getting a knocking/ clicking from the front end when I ride over bumps in the tarmac/ brake etc, similar to that experienced if the head bearings are loose. I am happy that they are set up properly as I have no movement when I manipulate the front end when raised off the ground, and they are seated fine. The bars are secure and run smoothly from side to side to full lock. I have also removed the forks again and they seem fine. Nothing is rattling in them, they dont leak, and they slide smoothly apart from the very first couple of mm of movement when they stick very slightly. This is very minor, almost as if the seals are a little tight. This isnt noticeable when the weight of the bike is on them. i have checked the security of the brake calipers and they are fine. This problem doesnt affect the handling but is really, really irritating ( and unnerving!). Any advice would be greatly appreciated at your convienience. Thanks for reading, best wishes, Steve (stevebillson@yahoo.co.uk)
Answer -
Hi Steve,
Very good description, thank-you.
I suspect not enough dampening or too light of fork oil. You seem to be thorough and likely performed the work without error.
See microfiche parts at "www.bikebandit.com"
I recommend having a local tech ride and experience the symptoms and diagnose the problem. I would need to do the same to offer an accurate answer.
Respectfully,
Mark Shively
Mark,
Thankyou very much for your knowledgeable and speedy response. Just a couple of points and apologies for my lack of knowledge. I have used 10/40 fork oil, what would you recommend as an alternative? Secondly what suspension settings would you suggest trying, and lastly, I have heard that handling is more responsive if the forks are moved up slightly in the steering head, lowering the front end in effect, is this true and if so by how much?
Thanks again Mark for your time and patience, it is greatly appreciated!
Best wishes, Steve Billson (stevebillson@yahoo.co.uk)
AnswerSteve,
You could try different weight fork oils to tune front end, though the type used should be ok. I'm curious if there's a problem with assembly. See microfiche parts views at "www.bikebandit.com"
You can lower the frame on the forks a bit. You'll have to experiment to learn the differences in response/feel. The amount or distance varies: if your lap times improve with better handling=just enough, if you crash=too much. : )
Visit this resourceful website:
www.gixxer.com/ubbthreads/ubbthreads.php?Cat=0
Keep me advised via email on your progress.
Respectfully,
Mark Shively
mshively1@woh.rr.com
