How to install steering head bearings/races?

Looks like I'm going to need new steering head bearings (2001 Gen5). I've replaced them on my Honda F2, so I'm somewhat familiar with the procedure. I've read through a bunch of posts, but haven't found the info I'm looking for. Arguments center on ball vs. taper, but there's no mention of replacing the races along with the bearings. Does everyone replace the bearings only, or do you do both the bearings and races? If you do the races, how do you replace them? Do you pound them out like I did on the F2, or use the Honda tool? If you did the races, how difficult were they to remove?

Thanks!

Jim

 

Always change races with bearings no matter what type, they are a set. Here's some info to know: http://www.motorcycleproject.com/text/steering_bearings.htm

lhttp://www.motorcycleproject.com/text/shucking.html

 

Yeah, the bearings come as a set: inner race, outer race, and balls/rollers. As long as you're doing it go with the tapered bearings, not more ball bearings. They will last longer and aren't any harder to install.

I used a hammer and drift to remove and install mine. The only relatively hard part is getting the inner race off the steering stem. Just remember if you go with the tapered roller bearings not to use the recommended torque settings from the HSM, they will be waaaay too high.

 

Ahem.... http://vfrworld.com/forums/showthre...-the-Joey_Dude-method-(read-cheap)?highlight=

 

Used this method recently. Worked to perfection. Thanks Joey!

 

and then there is this:

http://vfrworld.com/forums/showthre...-4-Gen-How-to?highlight=4th+steering+bearings