This weekend we decided not to take a ride. Scott and I both wanted to work on the Blue Ridge Parkway videos and pictures, work on our blog post, do some quick motorcycle maintenance and go to our HOG chapters skills day.
I decided that since the steering head bearing lubrication is quick and easy it would be a great place for me to start with my own set of maintenance videos. I do not have a background in mechanics so if I can do this you can do it!
I didn’t get a clip of us loading the grease gun because Scott had just finished using it on his. It isn’t hard to load but you can cause a gap in the line and have to pump some out each time you load it. The above picture is a close up of the grease.
The only two things you’re going to need for this maintenance procedure is a 14oz Grease Gun. You can purchase one from Amazon for less than $20. Auto repair shops and places like Nothern Tools also carry them. You won’t need any special adapters or extenders, the basic grease gun right out of the box works just fine. The other thing you’re going to need to get is the grease. Head to your local dealership’s parts counter and tell them what you’re doing. Harley has a special purpose grease that is formulated for higher temperatures before it liquefies. Using this grease is important because if you just pick up some bearing grease at Autozone the breakdown temperature may not be as high and if it’s hot outside and/or you’re doing a lot of maneuvers (skills day, competition, etc.) the grease could literally seep out of the bottom of the steering head and begin to leave the bearings without lubrication. It’s not expensive at the dealership and it’s approved by Harley for this purpose. I am sure that the same is true for other motorcycle manufactures. If in doubt check with your owners manual or ask at your dealership.
Once you have your grease gun and grease you are ready to. I hope you find the video helpful. Be sure to click the subscribe button!
It is going to be interesting to watch a lady try to do her own maintenance. Like you said this is pretty easy, changing your oil is another thing entirely.