At the 10,000 mile service I removed the top triple tree clamp, inspected, cleaned and lubricated the top steering shaft bearings. At that time the top bearing and race looked good and Moto Guzzi assembly line staff did install some lubrication, though a minimum amount. I did not remove the lower triple tree clamp to inspect or lubricate the lower steering shaft bearings. This turned out to be a big mistake.
At 25,000 miles I did remove the forks (to change the fluid and install the Matris Cali1400 spring kit), the lower bearings are in terrible shape, pitted, rusty and fused with some kind of awful gunk. They are beyond repair or further service. I need to replace them, I'd like to move on to caged tapered roller bearings. Does anyone have any suggestions about replacements for a 2014 California Touring?
Bearings Description:
I ordered a new set of Moto Guzzi replacement headstock ball bearings for the interim, they only cost about $60 with dust seals.
Attached is what my bearings look like, after cleaning them up with kerosene and lots of elbow grease.
At 25,000 miles I did remove the forks (to change the fluid and install the Matris Cali1400 spring kit), the lower bearings are in terrible shape, pitted, rusty and fused with some kind of awful gunk. They are beyond repair or further service. I need to replace them, I'd like to move on to caged tapered roller bearings. Does anyone have any suggestions about replacements for a 2014 California Touring?
Bearings Description:
- Steering Shaft (Spindle) Lower Bearing Boss diameter: 35.08 mm (bearing bore diameter)
- Headstock Race Boss Inside Diameter: 54.88 mm [Top and Bottom] (race outside diam.)
- Headstock Race Boss (Shoulder) Depth: about 16-16.1 mm [Top and Bottom] (bearing width)
I ordered a new set of Moto Guzzi replacement headstock ball bearings for the interim, they only cost about $60 with dust seals.
Quick little note: I have already posted this same content in the "All Balls bearing conversation". I've reproduced it here in the hopes of spreading awareness about this issue and to crowd source some input. Thanks. Den.
Attached is what my bearings look like, after cleaning them up with kerosene and lots of elbow grease.
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