TECHNICAL TIP BULLETIN TA0016: 2014 and Later Touring Steering Head Bearing Adjustment

Bulletin number

TA0016

Component

Steering

Summary

TECHNICAL TIP BULLETIN TA0016: 2014 and Later Touring Steering Head Bearing Adjustment. PURPOSE: REVISION. Updated: 2014-2019 to 2014 and later Touring vehicles, and VEHICLES AFFECTED. Harley-Davidson motorcycles are designed, manufactured and tested to be operated with both of the rider’s hands on the handlebar. If you or a customer are experiencing a handling concern, refer to the TROUBLESHOOTING, HANDLING, IRREGULARITIES found in the MAINTAINANCE chapter of the appropriate service manual. The service manual process is not intended to validate factory settings, but rather to be used if a concern is presented. Through extensive testing, Harley-Davidson has developed the service manual specification and adjustment procedure as the optimum steering head bearing adjustment and verification method to achieve the desired handling characteristics across all speeds and conditions. Addressing a perceived feel of low speed wobble, oscillation or free play by adjusting the steering head bearings beyond the service manual specification may have an adverse effect on motorcycle stability.

Owners of these vehicles have filed 10 complaints in the steering category.