Replacing Steering Head Bearings

The video shows the replacement of the steering head bearings on a 2012 Yamaha WR450F. The process is similar on most motocross, enduro and street motorcycles. In theory the bearings can be replaced without special tools, and the lower bearing race can be removed with a chisel. In practice, without experience this is very difficult or even impossible if the lower bearing has seized.

We were unlucky with the inner race of the lower bearing, which had rusted and seized. We didn't dare knock the bearing off with a chisel as the manual says. Cutting the race seemed the simplest and most accessible option.

You can also press the steering stem out of the triple clamp together with the race using a hydraulic press, but few people have access to one. Some mechanics also recommend cutting into the race as deep as possible and splitting it with a chisel. But it is very difficult or impossible to cut the race without touching the triple clamp, because it needs to be cut at its thickest point at the base, and that can't be done with a round disc.

To keep the bearings from rusting so badly, we recommend packing them tightly with grease and servicing them (cleaning and greasing) every time the motorcycle has been submerged. This applies to all bearings on the motorcycle!

You can buy bearings and special tools in our motorcycle shop!