450 RR "shuddering" ?

[offworlder]

OK, so how then does one remove/replace the bearings ? I've actually got a spare set in another front wheel.

Thanks.

[Haychip]

You will need a blind hole bearing puller. You cannot remove bearings and re-use them as you are pulling on the inner race to remove. To install new ones, heat the hub a little and put the bearings in the freezer. You should be able to drive them in like that without using a press. You ONLY press on the outer race. You should use a bearing/seal driver. you can use a socket the same diameter as the outer race If you don't have a driver. Don't beat them in, a slightly heated hub and frozen bearing should tap in fairly easily.

[offworlder]

Great info yet again, thanks Chip !

As I cant pull the bearings (and then reuse 'em) in the spare wheel, I'll have to order a fresh pair, and may as well for the rear at the same time.
How much longer can I continue to ride with the aforementioned play in the existing wheel ? And will/can I cause any damage ?

Thanks.

[Haychip]

It the bearings are in fact failing, I'd not ride it. once the bearing completely fails you can ruin the hub by riding it.

[Orangeshirtdude]

Make sure you have the front axle set up right. There is a nice step-by-step by tirebiter here: http://www.beta-talk.com/threads/265...end-related-Qs

Ironically, I just noticed a couple days ago a little bit of slack in the front end of my SMC so up on the stands it went. Sure enough, the axle nut was not tight. I'm not sure why it worked loose, but was just loose enough to allow about a half-milimeter of slack in the wheel spacers. Anyway, the axle slider spools held it from getting too loose, but it's still something to check periodically, especially if you're doing a lot of wheelies or rough terrain.