Hi all,

Well, I'm new here, having only just got myself a 1987 CBR1000FH. So far I have to say that I love this bike - it's got so much power and is the smoothest thing in the world! Can't wait to spend more time on it!

My bike does have a couple of problems though, which I thought I'd run by you all and see what you thought.

The main problem is front brake judder. Whenever I brake, I get a juddering from the front end. This happens at any speed, but it's far more pronounced at really slow speeds (i.e. less than 10mph).

I initially thought it was warped brake disks, but after doing a bit of internet based research, it seems that there's a couple of other things that could cause it, namely headrace bearings (that's what we call them in the UK - the bearings that the steering columb goes through) or the wheel bearings. Obviously I'd rather change these components than buy new disks, because they're much cheaper!

Has anyone here had any experience with changing headrace and/or wheel bearings on a CBR1000F? I know some bearings are a nightmare to get out without buying the proper Honda tool, but I'd rather avoid that if at all possible.

Has anyone ever come accross anything else that can cause brake judder?

I'm reasonably technical - I've been riding and maintaining bikes for about 17 years, and have become pretty good in the garage, but I've never had to change a wheel bearing before in my life!!

Thanks all - happy riding!

fozberry