Victory Motorcycles 2009 Hammer, Owner'S Manual

Page: 105 / 170

100
MAINTENANCE
Front Suspension and Steering
Care should be taken to be sure the motorcycle will not tip or fall while elevated. Severe personal injury
or death may occur if the motorcycle tips or falls.
WARNING
Inspect Steering and Front Axle
1. Elevate the front of the motorcycle until the front wheel is off of the ground. Use an appropriate motorcycle lift
or a block of wood or steel placed securely under the frame.
2. Turn the handlebars from stop to stop. The action should be smooth but not loose or interfered with by wires,
hoses, or control cables.
3. Point the front wheel straight ahead. Grasp the front forks near the front axle and attempt to move the front
wheel front-to-back.
NOTE: If there is front-to-back movement at the steering head, the steering head bearings should be inspected, lubricated, and ad-
justed (see the VICTORY Service Manual or an authorized VICTORY dealer). The steering head bearings require periodic
lubrication even if there is no front-to-back movement at the steering head when checked.
4. Turn the handlebars all the way to the right or left. Grasp the front tire and attempt to move the front wheel
side-to-side.
NOTE: If there is movement at the front axle, inspect the wheel bearings and front axle (see the VICTORY Service Manual or an
authorized VICTORY dealer).
5. Slowly rotate the front wheel. If the wheel does not rotate smoothly, inspect the wheel bearings, front axle, and
brakes (see the VICTORY Service Manual or an authorized VICTORY dealer).