Steering Bearings
About Steering Bearings
Steering stem bearings let the forks and handlebars turn smoothly inside the frame, and when they wear or dent the bike develops notchy steering, a clunk under braking or a loose, wandering front end. Riders shop here when steering feels rough, as part of a front-end rebuild, or after a crash or hard hit.
Bearings are sold as kits for a specific model, listed by make, such as Honda, Kawasaki, BMW, Husqvarna and KTM, and some listings are for the lower bearing only. A kit may include both bearings and races, and a rebuild kit may add seals. Check your model and years, because the bearing type and size differ between bikes. Installation needs the old races removed and the new ones seated square, then packed with grease and adjusted to the preload in the service manual. A stem that is too tight makes steering heavy and one that is too loose clunks, so the adjustment matters. Because it is a safety item, have a shop do it if you are unsure.
Brands listed here include Drag Specialties, ALL BALLS, BIKESERVICE, MOOSE OFFROAD and PIVOT WORKS. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. For other pivots and seals, see Suspension Bearings, Bushings & Seals, and for front-end parts see Fork Suspension & Parts. The group is Suspension & Handling.
FAQs on motorcycle steering bearings
What are the signs of worn steering head bearings?
Common signs are notchy or catching steering, a clunk when braking, front-end play and a wandering feel. To check, put the front wheel off the ground, turn the bars lock to lock and rock the forks. Any play or roughness needs attention.
Should I replace both the upper and lower steering bearings?
Usually yes. They wear together, and the races are pressed in as a set, so replacing both sides gives consistent results. Most kits cover both, though some listings are for the lower bearing only.
How tight should the steering stem nut be?
Follow the torque and preload procedure in your service manual, because steering bearings are sensitive to adjustment. Too tight makes steering heavy and wears the bearings, and too loose lets the front end move. If you are unsure, use a shop.
Do steering bearings need grease?
Yes. They are packed with grease when installed and should be inspected and re-greased at the interval in your manual. Water and dirt break the grease down, so check more often if you ride in wet or dusty conditions.
How do I know which steering bearing kit fits my motorcycle?
Look for your make, model and years in the listing, since sizes and types change between bikes. Some kits cover several models. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page to narrow the list.
