Tapered Steering Bearing Torque - Fifth Generation VFR's

So moved from stock bearings to tapered bearings. I have been trying to read about the right torque settings. Apparently 18lbs (OEM) is too tight..so what is the right torque settings ?

3-5 ft/lbs

I use 5. No problems.


But definetly preload the bearings to 18, and rotate the handlebars side to side a dozen times or so, the retorque to 18, and repeat moving the handlebars. Then back off and torque to 5.

This will ensure that the bearings are seated properly.

I like to torque them down with no load weight on the bearings.  In other words, not to let the wheel dangle while the front is jacked up.  I usually put something under the wheel that takes the weight of it off the bearings then do the tightening.  Can't say that this method makes any difference but I can say by doing it this way you are not fighting a downward pull from the weight of the wheel through the stem and on to the nut you are trying to tighten to a very small figure like 5 pounds.

i think i set mine to 7 ft/lbs

Torque wrenches should be far away from head bearings. Should be done by feel.

Factory service manual specifies using a torque wrench for the OEM (round) roller bearings. 18 ft/lbs.

I used 8f/l - still a little tight...will drop it to 6 and revert

 timmythecop, on 29 April 2012 - 02:54 PM, said:

Torque wrenches should be far away from head bearings. Should be done by feel.

This.Tighten by hand until you just feel resistance then back off a RCH. Tapered bearings have more surface contact than balls. Tightening them too much will make the steering heavy, and can crack the frame head if you get too carried away.
Edited by MBrane, 30 April 2012 - 12:20 AM.

I have backed out the torque all the way to 1fl/lbs and still find the steering heavy...maybe its just a matter of getting used to it.

 timmythecop, on 29 April 2012 - 02:54 PM, said:

Torque wrenches should be far away from head bearings. Should be done by feel.
+1
Tighten until there is no slack and the bars are moving freely while in the air, go for a ride, adjust if needed.
No torque wrenches.