Swingarms
About Swingarms
The swingarm is the pivoting arm that holds the rear wheel and lets it move with the suspension. Most of what riders shop for in this category is the hardware around the arm: replacement bearings when the pivot develops play, guards to protect the arm, spools for a rear stand, and covers and pivot parts for a cleaner look.
Bearings are the repair purchase. Pivot and linkage bearing kits are listed by machine, and the samples here include kits for specific Honda and Yamaha models and for Arctic Cat, Kawasaki and Suzuki, so match the kit to your exact model and year. A few models use a nut that needs a spanner socket, and the job ends with setting pivot tightness as the manual describes. Spools are sold by size, such as 8 mm or 10 mm, and the size must suit both your swingarm and your stand. Guards are cut for a particular machine and come in colors to match the bodywork.
Brands here include Vortex, Bolt, Drag Specialties, Acerbis and All Balls. Chrome pivot covers and pivot blocks are for custom builds. Pick your machine in the Ride Finder at the top of the page to see parts that fit it. Related parts are in Suspension Bearings, Bushings & Seals, Shocks & Coil Overs and Steering Bearings, all part of Suspension & Handling.
FAQs on motorcycle swingarm parts
How can I tell if my swingarm bearings are worn?
Lift the rear wheel off the ground on a stand and try to rock the swingarm side to side at the wheel end. Play there points to worn pivot bearings, as can a clunk when braking or accelerating and vague handling. Check the wheel bearings first, since they can feel similar.
What is a swingarm spool for?
A swingarm spool is a small fitting that mounts at the end of the swingarm so a rear paddock stand can lift the bike by it. Spools come in sizes such as 8 mm and 10 mm, so check the size and the models listed against your swingarm and your stand.
Should I replace swingarm bearings as a set?
Yes. Bearings in the same pivot wear together, and a kit is matched to your model. Clean the pivot, grease it as the service manual says and tighten it to the specified torque, because a loose or overtight pivot affects how the bike handles.
What does a swingarm guard do?
A swingarm guard is a shield that bolts to the arm to protect its surface from rocks, debris and scuffs. Guards are cut for particular models and come in colors, so check the machine and year in the listing before you order.
