1st Generation 1999 – 2002 SV650 Top Bearing Replacement for GSXR Fork/Triple Tree
- Remove original top bearing race from the steering head.
Punch race from underside at the two notch locations as shown in Figure below
Next step IMPORTANT to ensure capability for future bearing replacement
New bearing is narrower so notches must be extended in order to allow future access to underside of bearing for
removal. Unless this step is done, bearing removal will be near impossible, as there will be no access to bottom side of
race, due to the larger inside diameter versus the original. - Modify the steering head as follows:
a.Use file or Dremel tool to extend notches towards outside edge of the ring, being careful to avoid going
to extreme, or damaging the outside face of the bearing seat
b. Also file the inside perimeter edge of the step seat casting on which the bearing sits
This edge can be rough and will potentially cause interference with the bearing cage. - Tap new bearing race into the steering head using a soft hammer (plastic, brass, copper)
- Take original bearing race removed in step 1 and invert, then use this to drive the new race fully into place.
- Remove the original race, accessing from underside to drift out.
- Apply grease liberally to bearing and race and install bearing in the race.
- Insert Triple Tree and follow procedure per GSXR service manual correctly adjust and torque to specs.
Note: You must use the GSXR dust cover on top of the new bearing:
DO NOT use the original SV dust cover (it has rubber coating and will not allow correct torque to be applied)
