Motorcycle Fork Seals for BMW F650GS

Motorcycle Fork Seals for BMW F650GS

The proper functioning of the fork seal is vital to the design and usability of a motorcycle like the BMW F650GS. Without a working fork seal, you will not be able to ride the bike. If you need to remove and replace motorcycle fork seals for BMW F650GS, you should first understand what these seals are and how they work.

The fork is the mechanism that connects your motorcycles primary frame to both the axle area and the front wheel of the vehicle. This design is what allows you to change the direction of the bike via steering the handlebars. It is also instrumental in proper braking of the motorcycle and acts as a suspension aid as well. As the name suggests, the fork is made up of two tubes, with each tube needing a seal to keep oil from escaping.

Although the fork is a durable, tubular design, the seals that cover it are still exposed to debris and the elements during the course of riding. After enough wear, it may be necessary for you to replace them. If you notice that oil starts leaking out of the fork tube and onto the chrome of your forks, you may need to replace them. A motorcycle fork seal acts as an oil seal and is covered by a dust seal. While it might be difficult for you to determine if dust is entering the area, seeing oil leak out of it is a sure sign that the seals are no longer doing their job, and should be replaced with new ones as soon as possible. If not, fluids may leak onto the brakes or other sensitive areas, causing damage.

You can use these steps as a guideline for the installation process.

1. Disassemble the fork by first loosening the bolts and then removing the cap. Be sure to let any excess oil drain into a container after doing this step.
2. Remove the dirt seal and carefully pry out the old fork seal, gradually flushing the area to remove any debris.
3. Check the surrounding area of the bike to look for rust or other problems that may have exacerbated the deterioration of the old components. If you find any evidence of this, clean and repair any imperfections you can before you install the new part.
4. Place the new component over the stanchion area and slide it gently but firmly into place.
5. Put the clip, dust seal, and damping rods back into their respective places in the fork tubes.
6. Pour a new batch of oil into the fork seal and reinstall the necessary springs and screws on the cap.