If there's that much play in it, the handling will be seriously off. That ball joint is fairly crucial to accurate handling.Can't you just pop a bar in to see if theres any play?
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I'm interested to know how to check for play at the ball joint. I mean, how would you know the play is not at the headstock?That maybe so but surely checking for play is quick, easy and surely the first port of call?
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I'm interested to know how to check for play at the ball joint. I mean, how would you know the play is not at the headstock?
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I wouldn't trust that method at all. There are far too many things in that whole assembly that could be moving! How would you determine it was the ball joint moving and not something else?Lift the bike and with the front wheel off the ground, push and pull the forks to feel for play. If there is play, get someone else to push and pull while you look and feel for the play.
I I wouldn't trust that method at all. There are far too many things in that whole assembly that could be moving! How would you determine it was the ball joint moving and not something else?
Steppers, I'm sure you've seen absolutely everything on these bikes, you've probably lost count! And I'm in no doubt a ball joint could become so fooked that you could feel the play.Try it on a worn one then you'll be in a position to amend/edit your comment. .
Steppers, I'm sure you've seen absolutely everything on these bikes, you've probably lost count! And I'm in no doubt a ball joint could become so fooked that you could feel the play.
But...I'd say the handling would have to be so shite to get it that way (not to mention living with it) that the same person who insists on using the caliper pistons instead of brake pads - you've shown us the evidence of such economisers out there - would reach that point.
Going back to the op. I had a torn gaiter on an 1150 GS. I had no idea how long it was torn, but it was all fairly dry in there. I had noticed the handing was off but couldn't pin point it - checked the tyres, wheel bearings, stearing bearings. Eventually I noticed the tear in the gaiter. Fitted a new one. Wow. What a difference. The old ball joint was not obviously worn, but compared to the new item, it moved very freely.
My point is, I discovered quickly that ball joint is fairly key to how the bike handles. Hence all my comments above.
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Nope. I think you need to re-read my comments.Despite all your comments above it is a shame you didn't use the method I suggested. Would have indicated the ball joint straight away.
Hey folks
Is this ball joint sitting properly, I would appreciate your opinions please
Cheers Dub 24
You've got me thinking. All those moons ago, before you discovered the ball joint needed doing, was much of your riding in town or out of town/longer, faster roads?Looks normal to me. I replaced the ball joint on mine about four or five years ago. I could feel movement in it. Didn’t change the handling on mine but I expect it would have got worse to the point where I would have noticed it. I’ll give yours a spin if you’d like a second opinion!