Forks And Suspension

[cyclesaurus42]

How 'bout a little guidance?
The KX250 I'm looking at supposedly has a new front end.
The lower tubes are not pitted and move freely.

After plunging the forks about a half dozen times I detected a film of oil on the lower tubes,
enough so that it made my finger tip wet when I swiped it.

1) At WHAT point do I condemn the fork seals?
2) What is a good test to determine the useful life of fork springs?
3) What is a good test to determine the condition of the rear suspension components (shock, spring, swing arm bearing/bushings)

thanks for any input...

[ktm400rcer]

First off I would plan on replacing the fork and shock oil regardless including seals. Depending on how much riding I do i have it done at least once a year sometimes as many as 3-4 times if I am racing. currently i average 2 times a year. As far as the bearings etc goes; Plan on taking the apart and greasing them at the very least. If you see any pitting, rust or feel any looseness up-down or side side replace them. Same goes for steering head bearings. Now if you want them to last for a long time use AMSOIL synthetic waterproof grease. Make sure you do the other basics like change the trans fluid and clean, oil and grease the lip of the air filter. Normal maintenance on my KTM.

[cyclesaurus42]

Thanks for the reply KTM

As long as there is nothing obviously out of whack with the suspension I suppose the maintenance items you suggested will go a long way. I'm trying to avoid overlooking any potential problem that will set me back $$$ and keep me out of the woods for weeks before I take the bike home.

[jeep98]