PhotoAl
Junior Member
You are correct that is the upper bearing. In general I would agree with you that moisture did not flow past that bearing. However, there was a flat rubber washer or seal (maybe to function as something of a seal as it is about the same size as the top bearing) directly below the top bearing. On the top and bottom there was rust on the shaft. The hole in the center of the washer/seal fit tightly enough around the shaft so that there was no rust where it touched the shaft just above and below. Where the upper bearing inner race fits on the shaft, it is a smaller diameter. The washer/seal was at the bottom os that section. Should have taken photos!!! The upper bearing had a lot of grease and looked to have been greased at least once before. When I adjusted the bearings I "slopped" some grease on the bearing. I think my bike is an early 2004 as the original owner purchased it in mid February 2004. I have thought about making a shield for the lower triple clamp by fastening a metal sheet to the horn bracket which would be bent back under the bottom of the triple clamp and would protect it from wind blown water. Also wonder about the seal between the frame halves. Lots of questions.