FZRSupport: the FZROnline Archive

I (meaning a mechanic) put new tires on my 1989 FZR400 and now I feel a slight side to side instability. It's as if the road is slightly ungulated, but it's not. Although high speed on highway I don't notice it. First thing I checked was tire pressure and we're okay. Then I though maybe new tires are settling in. But the problem persists almost 1000km later. After an oil change last week a different mechanic mentioned that my steering felt stiff and that my barring my need to be change - I did not mention the weird instability, he mentioned this on his own. I'm dropping her off at Yamaha tomorrow so they can figure it out. BUT a friend mentioned that some tires - or tyres to my friends overseas - have a pointier shape for better turning and maybe my new tires are this shape...Skinko Podium radial, pair, stock sizes. Any feedback would be appreciated, one FZR lover to another. Thanks

If your bike is weaving gently side-to-side, and you CAN'T keep it going straight, your head bearings are either too tight or notchy.

DonTZ125 wrote:If your bike is weaving gently side-to-side, and you CAN'T keep it going straight, your head bearings are either too tight or notchy.

Thanks DonTZ125. Considering Yamaha suggested that I might want them to look at the bearing - without me mentioning this - I'm betting you are correct. And your description of a 'gentle side-to-side' is right on. My research points to a lot of suggestions that it is the bearing...leaving it at the dealer tomorrow. Will post results.

Ride safe and have fun friends.

What tyres are those ? I never heard of them.

Just be sure to get a quote before you let them at the bike, its quite a long job in time terms especially if you leave the fairing on. Bearings shouldn't cost much but expect that to double if you use Yamaha parts.

Really the steering stem bearings aren't that bad to do yourself. Allballs tapered bearings are under $34.