Front end vibration.

[Heavymetalazer666]

I hope this is the right section for my question...
I have a 1981 GS650 GL as my primary means of transportation. Some number of months ago (less than a year) it developed a front end vibration, the bars shake side to side not enough to change course or loose control, but none the less the whole bike shakes. It happens intermittently, but usually in the morning or whenever I first get out at low speeds around 15-35 mph. I can't find anything loose, however the front tire is worn (probably going to need replaced before the end of this summer.) Could the worn tread be causing this problem? Anything else anybody think it could be? Anybody had this problem before? Like I said I ride the bike all the time but it only shakes sometimes. The problem started out of no where (last mods went on six months or so prior to) and has not gotten any better or worse.

[hjfisk]

Check you steering stem bearings.

[bonanzadave]

Could the worn tread be causing this problem?

Id like to see a picture and the date code on that tire. If it looks worn and this is your main mode of transportation.....dont wait. Change it now.

[BassCliff]

Greetings and Salutations!!

Hi Mr. Heaveymetalazer666,

Yes, check for play in the forks. With the bike on the center stand go to the front of the bike, grab the forks, and pull/push them back and forth. If there is any movement back and forth you need to at least tighten the steering stem nut until you can replace the bearings. Then, while sitting on the bike (still on the center stand) turn the handlebars left and right slowly through the full range. If there is any "notchy-ness" then the bearings have to be replaced. DEFINITELY replace both tires. If you check the date codes I'm sure you will find that they are very old. Depending on sun exposure, a 4 year old tire is about the limit for me. Check this out:

Used bike buying checklists:
http://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/Riding/Street/Resources/UsedBikeChecklist.aspx
http://www.clarity.net/~adam/buying-bike.html


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