Yes, there's an upper and lower triple tree, when installing the forks they should be equidistant from the upper triple tree. So if one forks is flush to the top of the upper triple tree so should the other. As far as checking the bearings you'll need a hoist, lift, or strap and jack to lift the front end.

 

hmmmm. something else is really bothering me. when i put the bike on the front stand while the wheel is straight and centered it forces the handle bars right a bit. so right when i pick it up with the stand it turns right just a little from the center, it does this each and every time.
This leads me to believe that the problem has to be with the forks somewhere and not the rear wheel..

steering and wheel looks to be centered, but i will do an alignment on it and see if it helps. i will loosen the lower triple tree and all the bolts down from that and go from there.

 

What is the history of this bike? Has it been down? Did this problem suddenly occur or has it been like this for a long time?

The frame may be bent for all you know.

Maybe you should have a professional take a look at it for you. A problem like this could be a serious safety hazard.

 

been down once only. Had it for a few years now, the problem is recent. I'm planning to do what i can, then off to the dealer if i cant fix it.