Topic: K4 "INDEXED" STEERING, WHAT THE DUECE...

[chippyfive50]

MY 750k4 has always had a "notch" when the handlebars are straight. Is this by design?
The reason I ask is that after getting new tires I have the dreaded "wobble" when I let go of the bars. I have read about this extensively on this board,
and one of the remedies is new steering bearings. I am going to try all of the easy stuff first.... but I was curious about my stock "notch"..
cheers..

[jsaab2748]

Your steering head bearings are worn out causing the notch.  Possibly the wobble problem as well, or at least contributing to it.

[736cc]

Replacing the bearings is well worth the effort, much more responsive and SAFER to ride.

[crazypj]

The notch isn't stock but its so common people think it is.
The bearings are much harder than the races.
If the adjustment is only slightly loose it notches the races (quite often from new, particularly if 500 mile service wasn't done right)
Its usually most noticeable at low speeds when bike 'wanders' and also at high speeds when you get a 'tank slapper'
The only 'cure' is new bearings, anything else is just a a waste of time.
Fitting taper rollers is best as they are somewhat tolerant of mis-adjustment. ( either too loose or too tight)
PJ

[paulages]

you'll never believe the difference tapered steering bearings make.

[chippyfive50]

thanks fellas, that confirms my suspicion. I have the ALL BALLS tapered set in my 550 and it was a huge improvement. Looks like I need
to place another order..
it was just that the notch was DEAD STRAIGHT.
CHEERS!!