Front End Clonking noise

[Tooty]

Firstly let me apologise for my ignorance of V-Rods. We just don't get em in the shop.

Anyway, here's the problem. Our customer has a 2005 Street Rod. When he goes over a decent size bump the front end clonks like the steering head bearings are loose. He has had it back to the dealer several times with no improvement. They seem to be saying that all V Rods do this and there is nothing wrong with it. Having now spoken to several V Rod pilots it seems that this is a common fault.

Question is, what causes this clonking and can anything be done?

Tooty

[bimsb6]

i have heard of this clonk on 1130cc.com the american v rod forum but never really got to the bottom of what causes it or what the remedy was .maybe worth asking over there.
How many have the "clunk"? - 1130cc.com

[Bluey]

Have you checked the Fork oil, it needs to changed on a regular basis as it quickly breaks down and can affect the dampening on the suspension!

[Kiwi]

insufficient fork oil is the problem

[robbiemac]

Hi Tooty, did you get the clonking sorted out?? Just interested.

[Tooty]

Just been looking on the USA forum and the concensus is that we should change the fork oil and make sure the level is correct. We will of course check the headstock bearing adjustment as well. Bike is booked in for Wednesday so I'll post the results after we have had a play!

Tooty

[Tooty]

Fixed it!
Firstly, the bike was a Street Rod and had the upside down forks. The fork oil that we took out was as thin as water and we noticed that only one leg had a damper assembly. A quick look at the book revealed that this is correct. Phew! Apparantly it is common Sports Bike practice to only fit a damper to one leg.
Anyway, we put the right amount of SAE30 fork oil in and the bike rides like a dream.

RESULT

Tooty

[robbiemac]

thanks for update Tooty, glad ya got it sorted out ok.

[bimsb6]

what is the correct quantity ?