mwv_1500
Southeastern NH
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Joined: 06/09/2010
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I have a '99 Honda GL1500CF (Valkyrie Interstate) that I've owned since new. I currently have just over 82K miles and have just experienced my third left-rear-wheel bearing failure. The first failure occurred at about 50K miles, the second was at 70K miles. As a side note, I turn my own (motorcycle) wrenches - have for close to 40 years now). After the initial failure, I made a point to become educated as to any and all potential causes of this failure and began to diligently check all bearings at any service point or tire change. After the second failure, I learned that this particular wheel bearing is used across the Honda line, including the ST1100 and one of their 400cc dirt bikes. The local Honda service manager is well aware of the problem and has encountered it on a number of Valkyries that he's had in for service. Although I am well past any warranty period, he still suggested I contact Honda directly to see if they had any answers. I went this route at the 70K mile failure and got nothing from the representative at Honda, but decided to try again this time. The support person again refused to acknowledge any known problem exists, had little-to-no information on my past incidents, and kept referring me back to my local dealer. I don't know about anyone else, but I think a wheel bearing failure at 12K miles is unacceptable. No, I don't ride 2-up very often; no, I don't overload the bike (it can carry a spare helmet, rain gear, and and extra jacket, right?); yes, I follow every proper procedure when assembling the unit (assembly order, torque wrench, liberal grease, close inspections). I'm looking for answers, and no one seems to be able to give them. I would like to have a serious and open chat with a Honda engineer, but that doesn't look like it's going to happen. Thoughts, suggestions, other experiences?
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Vstar-Guy
USA
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Joined: 01/15/2005
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One suggestion comes to mind. Have you searched the Net for any forums
that deal with your bikes brand and more specifically model,
Valkyrie Interstate? I'm willing to bet there is at least one site out there that can help you. Try delphiforums.com. They have many different forums and some are for specific brands and models of bikes, for instance there is one for the 650cc V-Star Classic! I think you will find the rear bearing problem you've been having could be more the norm than not, possibly due to high torque! Good Luck
Ride Safely
In order to Ride Safely you must Expect the Unexpected!
The RIDE is the Destination AND Always Remember: Stupid Hurts!
VStarGuy
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