Ywain

Could you fit - and weld - a sleeve into the top of the XS frame steering head to make up the extra 5/16”?

Obviously, alignment would need to be good but that spacer-sleeve would be much simpler to make than messing around with the stem.

Pete
 
Have you installed the outer race in the bottom of the neck? Maybe you could shim it down that amount to lower the stem?
that's one way! probably have to shim BOTH ends a little, yes the bottom neck race is in but I have angled access holes drilled to remove it. :sneaky:
 
Increasing the spacing between the bearings would be best because the assembly would gain stability and stiffness - but as I mentioned, it needs to be done accurately.

....and yes, steering is important in contrast to braking which is widely over-rated. ;)
 
If 50% or more of the race was inside the tube.... a good interference fit, and fully seated, I'd be perfectly comfortable with that.
Playing the devils advocate here. How would you feel about a wheel bearing where only 50% of the race was supported?
 
Playing the devils advocate here. How would you feel about a wheel bearing where only 50% of the race was supported?
Too many variables to answer that.... is it set in poorly cast aluminum or high quality steel? Is it a bearing designed for a 5000lb. load that will only see a 2000lb. load in use... or will it see the full 5000lb. load in service? For what Gary's doing here, I believe it will be more than up to the task. I mean... we ain't trying to fly to the moon here after all. ;)
 
Too many variables to answer that.... is it set in poorly cast aluminum or high quality steel? Is it a bearing designed for a 5000lb. load that will only see a 2000lb. load in use... or will it see the full 5000lb. load in service? For what Gary's doing here, I believe it will be more than up to the task. I mean... we ain't trying to fly to the moon here after all. ;)
Should have added.... if you look at the "loose balls" setup Yamaha originally installed, 50% of a tapered roller is still light years better.
 
I dunno, gggGary... I'm inclined to agree with GLJ here. IMHO, it might be best to cut your losses, bite the bullet, remove the bearing (by any means), and start over. Consider it an expensive lesson. :twocents:
 
And done!
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