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Stem valve failure

10 posts Started 27 Sep 2012 Last recovered post 27 Sep 2012 Wayback Machine snapshot 1 Nov 2013

#1
Riding back to Atlanta at 90 MPH on GA 400 I suffered an instantaneous loss of air pressure in my front tire due to the failure of my stem valve. This became apparent when I couldn't turn the front wheel. After gradually slowing down ( no brakes) and very gradually angling to the side of the highway I pulled off into the grass at about 20 MPH (too fast) and almost lost the front end during violent head shaking.
The bike is in my garage and I have one observation and one question.
1.In the future I will carry a Canyon Dancer (or similar) harness under my seat. I was on the side of the road for four hours trying to get towed because my free AMA towing connection couldn't find a single tow company who could strap down a sport bike without damaging the front fairings. I ended up calling a motorcycle tow company from Atlanta to come get me.
2. The tire looks perfect. Would anyone simply replace the valve and continue using the tire. I'm worried that I may have caused internal cord damage that isn't readily apparent.
This time I think I'll put on all-metal 90 degree valves that tread on from the bottom.
#2
What valve stem failed? Manufacturer? CAn you see why it failed?

Kurvy Gurl valve stems are a great brand to use.
#4
total flat from 90 mph? with the front? personally, i would change that tire.

what a terrifying experience, and good on ya for getting her stopped without any more drama. i had a rear go at similar speed, and by the time i stopped it was very hard to keep upright. couldn't imagine what it would have been like with a front.
#5
Details, I want details!! :smile: I, too, would like to know what kind of valve stem, and how it failed.
#6
When you pull the tire to install a new valve stem, you should be able to see if there is damage to the tire. Look for rubber dust inside.
#7
My last bike, a Multistrada, had very nice solid 90 degree valves. I asked my Honda dealer if he had any valves like that when they were mounting new tires for me. The pictures show the aftermarket pieces they had. I thought they looked cheap, but I was in a rush to get the wheels back to my bike, so I took them. I've attached photos. The rubber ripped where it passes through the rim, leaving about 50 percent of the remainder attached. The dealer now sells the Ducati valves.

Attached Images

  • [image: IMG_0211.JPG]
  • [image: IMG_0209.JPG]

#8
Where are you in ATL? I'm in Lithia Springs and I have Bridgeport (Like Veefer Posted) valve stems and a changer.
#9
My VFR failed inspection for bad stems. I told the donkey that they were good. He insisted. I put new stems on and the rear one failed 5 miles later. Good thing you can replace them without taking the wheel off or I woulda been more pissed.
#10

The dealer now sells the Ducati valves.

What are ducati valves? A Ducati wheel needs a different size valve stem that does not fit a Japanese wheel.
A valve similar to the 90degree valve stem in your first pic is also used on Goldwings, but it comes with a support that prevents it from bending due to centrifugal force.

The Bridgeport valves are the way to go, good quality and low weight.
End of thread · 10 posts recovered Wayback Machine snapshot 1 Nov 2013