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The Motorcycle Thread

Discussion in 'Permanent Threads' started by Nettdata, Oct 23, 2009.

  1. Nettdata

    Nettdata
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    Mr. Toast

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    Nice! Congrats!
     
  2. Fiveslide

    Fiveslide
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    I wanted to post this tip about extending the life of your motorcycle, since this one is new and I can actually show you a good example of how little manufacturers care about lubrication on new bikes. You could feel the slightest thin film of grease on them, but that's it. It felt like the parts were sprayed with a waxy grease, rather than a good grease. Visually, you couldn't tell there was any grease there.

    You, or your mechanic, should absolutely be breaking down your motorcycle and greasing these bearings. When you first buy a new one, a used one, and then periodically as you use the bike. Especially when new, or when you pick up a used bike. Manufacturers simply do not put enough grease on the bearings, and too few first owners know it needs to be done.

    On-road motorcycles don't get exposed to nearly as much sand, dirt and grit that gets in these bearings, but it is still a good idea to do it when new. If you do it on a new on-road bike, you can probably not worry it again for years.

    Off-road bikes, if you don't pack these bearings with waterproof grease, they will fill themselves up with grit, water and just get destroyed much quicker than you can imagine. I will probably be doing this again when I replace the rear tire, just for a check and fresh grease. Then decide how often I want to break it down when I see the condition at that time.

    These suspension bearings are constantly moving when you ride. They need more grease than manufacturers put on them. If you don't grease them, you will eventually have to replace them. If you do grease them, and then do it periodically after that, you may never have to replace them.

    The job is not as intimidating as it looks. There were 5 pins/nuts for the swingarm and linkage. The worst part was remembering where all the body/seat/subframe hardware goes. Just put those back in the holes after you remove those parts, so you don't have to remember where they go.

    Your axle bearings are most likely sealed bearings that do not need this treatment. But, you should check parts diagrams to be sure.

    Yes, I did this in my living room. The weather is crappy, and I wanted to watch TV and work slowly. It's not like there was any dirt or grease on the bike to get everywhere.

    Screenshot_20251026_214924_Photos~2.jpg

    Screenshot_20251026_215045_Photos.jpg

    Screenshot_20251026_183808_Photos.jpg

    Back together, actually ready for first ride.

    Screenshot_20251029_132019_Photos.jpg
     
  3. Puffman

    Puffman
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    That is one nice looking motorcycle. Thank you for the tips.