Forks sticking, big problem

Has anyone ever had front forks that would stick or lock up? Not a KZ but rather a 92 750 Zephyr. This has happened before on this bike, first was when we brought it home and went to unload it. I never gave it a thought then, just chalked it up to a long haul strapped down on a bike with low miles. This time it went down, washed the front end out in a slow speed corner with some bumps in it. Picked it up and rode it home, I could tell when the forks were sticking but kept thinking it would work loose or get better, now I have need of repair elsewhere. Any one have any in site as to why they would be sticking.

Forks are stuck at the bottom of stroke in this pic. You can pick the front end up pulling it over on the kickstand with the handle bars.


Now I need to fix this, an engine cover and replace the exhaust can on this side of what was an absolutely perfect example!

Les Holt

Either the forks are bent or you have an alignment problem within the triple clamps and front wheel. Loosen all the bolts on the triple clamps, and see if that frees up hte forks.

I would start with the pinch bolts at the base of the forks for the axle if there are any. After tightening the axle nut, leave the pinch bolts lose. Then bounce the front end by pushing on the top triple a few times. Once that is done, lock the pinch bolts down. With RSU forks, you tend to find the lower fork tubes can move side to side significantly. If the tire was put on, the assembly could have had the bottom of the fork pushed in and locked down, causing the fork to be bowed and stick during travel.

Cory