Bike repair in Munich
 

Hi folks. I'm currently touring Europe on my Kawasaki W650 and have developed quite a severe handlebar wobble whenever I take my hands off briefly, even at slow speeds (also evident when I take one hand off to wipe my goggles). Also finding the steering is fighting against me when turning slowly in a circle. Doesn't seem to be anything obviously wrong with the front tyre. Any advice on how to fix this? Also, is there anyone in the area with space where I can work on the bike? I'm staying at a friend's apartment in the city centre and the bike is parked on the pavement outside in a busy area.
Thanks!

Hi

a) try connecting the Horizons Unlimited communities, this will drop your help request by email into the inboxes of people in the area Contact a Community | Horizons Unlimited

b)
Get the front wheel off the floor, by putting the bike on the centre stand, or having someone pull the rear of the bike down. Feel the movement of the handlebars by moving the wheel round in its range of motion. If it feels notchy, it could be the steering head bearings gone. https://www.motorcyclistonline.com/h...c-garage-video

Good luck!

This is super helpful – exactly what I needed. I'll go and make those checks.

Also check the BACK END - the tail wags the dog.


A few more places to look...

• When did it start, immediately you left on the trip or got worse over time? Anything changed about your loading?
• Is the weight too far back?Can you move the heavy stuff more forward?
• Are the shocks cranked to the max preload or saggy?
• Tyre pressure front and rear? Make sure it's set to the two-up setting or luggage setting if given.