1986 VFR700F Front End Chatter

What I've noticed is that when I go fast enough to have to lean the bike over, or hang off a bit, there is a bit of front end chatter. I believe this to mean that I probably need to increase the rebound of the front forks. So I rebuilt the forks when I first got the bike because the seals were all messed up and there was no oil in them them.. well hardly any in there. I put the correct amount of oil in them according to the manual and I used 10wt. fork oil. I weigh 190lbs. and I suppose I'm getting into a more aggressive riding style. My question is, How do I fix the unnerving front end chatter. Right now I just hold on and don't try to press it too much but I know I can take those corners faster if only the front end wouldn't bounce around so much. I was thinking my options are getting some new springs (.9's??) but I don't think that will fix the issue here although it may be close to what I need.


Damon

 

chatter? whats the "noise" sound like?

 

How many miles on the bike ??

Check headset bearings, wheel bearings and balance and fork bushings.

you could probably use heavier fork oil.

 

Tooth picks

It is the nature of the beast with stock forks. They dance at speed.Swap the forks for later model and enjoy.Not talking smack it is what it is....they were great in 86 and are .....not so good now.Really not trying to be a butthead.....a good bike ..better with better forks and wheels.....can ride circles around others on my gen 2.....and do from time to time and love it!:biggrin:

 

I replaced my stock springs with Progressive (brand) when i first disovered how wimpy stock set up is....
nice improvement for not too much $$

 

might want to look into a fork brace while your at it.

 

Headset and wheel bearings on order, should be here any day. The bike only has 13k miles on it but like I said the forks were in bad shape before I took them apart and rebuilt them. The front wheel is a little out of balance, hopefully get that squared away in the next few days. I also ordered a fork brace. I plan to get some new springs when my money situation pans out.. Of course I've been waiting all my life so maybe I'll just tuff it out soon

Oxygen

 

You need cartridge emulators and you need to replaced the head bearings with tapered.

Then torgue the adjustment nut so that the front "barely" does not flop down to the stop by itself. (You should be able to put the wheel halfway between straight and full lock and the wheel stay where it is)

 

How old are your tires? New tires feel GRRRRRRRRRRRREAT