A modification to steering geometry
is not
in itself a reason for rejection.
Before failing a machine for excessively stiff steering, check that
any adjustable steering damper is released. The tester may at his
discretion consider that a road test is necessary to establish whether
stability or control is adversely affected. If the damper is released
during the test the vehicle presenter must be informed (Reference
Introduction Item 10).
It is important to distinguish between play in the head bearings
and that in the forks, it may be necessary to use the assistant
to apply the brake whilst the machine is pushed so that a proper
assessment can be made by hand and eye.
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Check
that the steering head bearings are adjusted correctly and are in
good condition as follows:
1. Inspect for tightness and roughness by turning the steering from
lock to lock
a. with the front wheel on the ground for on a turning plate) to
check the lower bearing, and
b. with the machine raised so that the front wheel is clear of the
ground to check the upper bearing.
2. Inspect for free play as follows;
a. apply the front brake and push the handlebars forward, or
b. for lightweight machines, with the aid of an assistant raise
the front wheel clear of the ground, apply the front brake, and
lift the front of the front wheel, it may be necessary to support
the centre of the machine if it does not have a suitable stand).
c. for machines with steering linkage:
hold the front wheel firmly between your legs, rock the steering
side to side and Assess any free play in the linkage.
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I.
Steering movement excessively stiff, 'notchy' or rough (see information
column).
a. with weight on the lower bearing,
b. with the wheel raised.
2. Excessive free play in the head bearings or any steering linkage
(see information column).
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