Does KTM Grease Their Steering Stem Bearings? Quick Look + How to: 2024 500 EXC-F

Let's have a look at the steering stem bearings in a 2024 KTM 500 EXC-F. Several owners have reported that the late model KTM's (around the time of posting this video), are being distributed without proper lubrication of the bearing's. I decided I better check mine before to long. The video also includes a how to maintenance these items.

[@ridemfast7625]

Agreed, plenty of grease.

[@ryanfisher744]

Could you have left the steering lock off, and do you have to do anythig special if you do? Thanks!

[@dustinhoover3157]

@@ryanfisher744 I have not tried, but there is a good chance the tripple clamp would fasten together without it. I'm not convinced there is any significant benefit to remove it, and it does act as a bit of a debris shield.

[@ryanfisher744]

@@dustinhoover3157 Thank you!

[@justmyself1000]

The dealer is supposed to do this when they set up and assemble the bike from the crate.

[@dustinhoover3157]

@@justmyself1000 I'd have to reach out to a dealer to confirm that. I have seen bikes in crate that had the triple and forks mounted, minus front wheel and bars/controls.

[@dustinhoover3157]

@@justmyself1000 That may vary between manufacturers and could change at any time I suppose.

[@BrodyGordon-x3d]

Does your steering head seal sit flush with the head or is there a small gap on the upper bearing ?

[@dustinhoover3157]

@@BrodyGordon-x3d There may be a small gap. 1/16” or so. The step portion on top of the head (upper bearing dust shield race), should be partially covered by the dust shield. These bearings are not considered a sealed bearing.

[@dasboototto]

1:30 into the vid, mystery solved. I can stop watching.

[@dustinhoover3157]

@@dasboototto Design feature.