2003 Suzuki VL 1500 Intruder LC Logo
A
Anonymous Posted on Apr 13, 2014

My front wheel or handlebar shakes at 35-40 when I take my hands off the handlebars.

  • mikegerman24 Jan 23, 2015

    This subject has been discussed numerous times by owners of this particular bike. I own one myself, a '03 just like the person who asked the question. The OEM steering head bearings are faulty , and have to be changed to address the problem. DO NOT use OEM bearings, replace them with timken roller bearings or you will be right back where you started. A cupped front tire will cause some handling issues ,but the bearings are the main culprit ,and must be replaced. It would be a good idea to change the wheel bearings at the same time, and run 36 psi front which will help with handling.

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Adam Truesdale

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  • Posted on Jan 23, 2015
Adam Truesdale
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I had this problem. put a new tire on it and the shaking went away I can drive with hands off the bars now.

Trexman

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  • Posted on Jan 05, 2015
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Hi,
Your bike isn't alone with this problem. I've noticed similar problems on other makes at various speeds. The head bearings are definitely worth checking as suggested by others. However the general consensus of opinion seems to be that the steering head angle contributes to this "shopping trolley" effect. Some people have found that altering the suspension settings and weight ( i.e .luggage) distribution helps a lot. Some even go to the trouble of fitting different tyres or trying different tyre pressures. All these can affect the steering head angle. I've tried a few of these options without any great success. In the end I decided just to hold on tighter. Good luck hope you get it sorted.

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  • Posted on Dec 11, 2014
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First, the original steering head bearings are notorious for early failure due to a plastic housing. This is usually the problem. They need replacing with a good aftermarket tapered set with steel casings. Do not use OEM! You can get them at Metric Thunder.com. Second, make sure your front tire isn't cupping, this can be from the bearings,and also from low air pressure. Also,the recommended air pressure is too low. You need to run about 36 psi front, and about 38 rear. Lastly, check out this forum, its specific to your bike, and a wealth of info...

4 Related Answers

DoubleClutch

Greg O'Day

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  • Posted on Sep 30, 2009

SOURCE: When I let go of my handlebars the bike shakes

You need to check the trueness of the rim, The front Axel my be bent. One of the fork tube may be bent. Fork tube oil in one of the tubes may be low. The neck bearings my need replaced or tightened.

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Anonymous

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  • Posted on Feb 25, 2010

SOURCE: Wheh I take both hands off the handlebar, it

I have the same problem. It has been that way since it was new. I figured best not to let go of the steering.

mxtras

mxtras

  • 194 Answers
  • Posted on Jul 08, 2010

SOURCE: Handlebar adjustment....

A lot of guys will just find a firm surface (tree, pole) and beat the wheel against it to straighten the front wheel. Some will kick the wheel to straighten the front end. I would not suggest either method unless you are in the middle of a race.

The best way is to loosen the top triple clamp bolts (that grip the fork tubes) and then grip the tire with your knees (standing in front of the bike) and twist the bars, then re-tighten the top clamp bolts once you are happy with the alignment. It will move quite easily. Check the tighness of the steering stem nut after you are done.

If you need any additional details, don't hesistate to ask.

Michael Green

  • 3799 Answers
  • Posted on Jun 11, 2012

SOURCE: Handlebar size for Intruder 1400 1992 GLPN

From the information I have found it would seem to be 7/8"

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