LUC’S TIPS NOVEMBER 2013: Lubricating Major Suspension Pivot Points
Last Updated: February 6th, 2021
Motorcycles have lots of places that need greasing. If you are a DIY kinda rider, it can be easy to forget about these places. Simply put, anything on a motorcycle that pivots, slides, or rotates requires some form of lubrication; typically grease. The rear suspension of our motorcycles is no different.
WHEN TO SERVICE?
Ask MOM! The Motorcycle Owners Manual will be able to tell you what needs to be greased and when. The manufacturer’s service manual will explicitly show you how to grease the component, the proper grease to use, and the proper torque specs for any bolts needing tightening.
WHAT’S THE ISSUE
The linkages of our rear suspensions often ride close to the ground where they can come into contact with water, road grime, and dirt. The factories use grease in these areas, but over time the grease can lose its effectiveness or even wash out due to water. Corrosion can prevent the linkages from working properly. In minor cases, you’ll experience a rough, inconsistent ride. In worse case scenarios, you could experience suspension failures resulting in a loss of traction and component damage.
WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT
There are too many differences between bikes to be able to clearly define a general procedure. However, should you decide to move forward, you’ll need your motorcycle’s service manual, a recommended cleaner, a proper waterproof grease recommended by the motorcycle manufacturer in the service manual, rags, and motorcycle specific tools, including torque wrenches. You’ll probably also need a lift. for some suspensions, you’ll need a grease gun to grease the Zerk fittings. Come to think of it, we think this job is a good one for the friendly local dealership. Why? Can this be done with common sense, a willingness to get dirty, and a layperson’s knowledge of suspension? Sure, but why not let the professionals handle it? We speak from experience when we say undoing a simple bolt can turn from a two minute job into a one hour ordeal due to corrosion. Plus, the safety of you the rider is at stake.
WHAT IS THE BENEFIT?
The major benefits of keeping your rear suspension greased properly are many:
- Rear suspension operates properly providing maximum access to traction
- Lubrication prevents premature wear of components or even component failure
- Increased safety
So now that your rear suspension is properly greased and working at its optimum, where are you going to ride?
-LUC
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DISCLAIMER: THE VIEWS AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS COLUMN ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF ANY MANUFACTURER. THE CONTENT PROVIDED IS MERELY EDUCATIONAL AND NOT INTENDED AS A REPLACEMENT FOR PROFESSIONAL REPAIR. TEAM ARIZONA, ITS STAFF, AND ITS RIDERCOACHES ARE UNAVAILABLE FOR PRIVATE MOTORCYCLE REPAIR; WE RECOMMEND SEEING YOUR LOCAL DEALERSHIP OR REPAIR SHOP.
