How to remove steering head bearings?

[misternikko]

Perfect thread! I just finished taking apart my front end to replace my worn/sticky bearings.

The HD bearings I was going to order are no tapered and do not have the races as a different part. At least thats not how it looks in the pics. They seem to be sealed...1 piece for each bearing. Is that right?

Is there any benefit other than price?

 

[snrusnak]

The oem HD bearings are ball bearings, they are "sealed". The aftermarket ones I used from all balls are not only cheaper, but they are also flat tapered bearings. They should last longer, the flat roller bearings spread out the weight over larger surface area, so wear slower. They are simply better.

I guess I didn't update this thread, but I currently have the triple trees and forks all torqued down, and just turning the triples as it is now it turns very freely and firmly.

Putting the wheel and brake and bars on tonight.

 

[egobuster1]

I'm planning to remove my forks to have the powder coated and was going to have my fork clamps powder coated also and was just wondering if i should replace the head bearings while at it or just leave them alone.
bike has little 8k on it by the way.

 

[snrusnak]

OLD thread, but that's ok (I'm the original poster.... )

Replace them. They are very inexpensive.