Front preload

[Punkstig]

So, for my left preload adjuster you need a spanner to turn it,  all good there, but my right preload adjuster can be adjusted by just the fingers, now its not loose loose by any means but I'm wondering if this variation points to a hidden issue, any thoughts?


I'm wondering if this is contributing to the front end going into a wobbly hissyfit when letting go of the bars (I've checked tyre pressures etc!)

[jonesthesteam]

Hi, not an expert by any means but both the preload adjusters on mine can be turned by hand, again like yours they are not loose and there is some resistance but easily turntable none the less, I also had a major handlebar wobble when letting go the bars, a new front tyre seems to have solved it though, so not sure if the preload adjusters are an / the issue regarding the wobble.


Jonesy

[Dead Eye]

Neither of mine can be adjusted by hand - have to get a spanner out to do the job

The forks are probably due a service which I'll get round too soon enough :P

[andy352299]

my preload adjusters were very tight and needed a spanner, virtually ceased and I was concerned about damaging them, a little wd40 and they still need a spanner but move smoothly, a little resistance but no real force reqd. its a 2002 bike so I imagine the rain had got to them

[hightower]

Surely a wobble would point to an issue with wheel balancing?

[darrsi]

Surely a wobble would point to an issue with wheel balancing?

Could be caused by balancing, iffy tyre, uneven fork oil levels, etc.
When i had forks with adjusters i don't ever remember moving them by hand, in fact i would've thought it strange if you could move them by hand as they would have pressure on them wouldn't they??
 
There's also this in the Hot Poop section above:    http://foc-u.co.uk/wiki/index.php/Front_Wheel_Wobble_-_description,_and_possible_causes

[Fazerider]

If the adjusters feel different either one is stiff because it is binding or for some reason the spring pressure differs between the two sides. Either way, it's worth taking them off and seeing what the cause is.
As for your wobble, while you have the front end propped up to examine the suspension, it's a good opportunity to check wheel balance and that the steering head turns smoothly with no notchiness or slop.