Motorcycle steering issue?
I recently bought a 95 Honda Nighthawk 250 and noticed that the front tire tends to want to turn in when I lean the bike. In the MSF course I rode a CB300f and during some free laps I bobbed the bike back and forth (left-right) while driving straight as if I was warming up the tires and the bike stayed nice and crisp. If I do this same thing on my bike the handlebars noticeably turn in either direction. This happens when I lean the bike to take regular turns as well and has me concerned with taking any curves at speed. The rear tire is certainly wore more in the center than the sides but not sure if this would cause the problem. I've also noticed the fender over the front tire seems to be misaligned as if the previous owner possibly hit something at low speed and bent it in one direction. What should be my first course of action? (aside from cursing myself for buying a used bike with little to no mechanical knowledge)
Realign your front end as soon as possible. Or, have someone do it of you don't know how.
While riding on a smooth level surface, gently release your grip until you are riding with no hands (keep you hands on the grips in case you hit a bump)
If the bike wants to veer in either direction, something up front is not kosher.
Bent frame
Twisted forks
Bent forks
Bent steering stem
Incorrect tire pressure
Get the bike geometry checked, especially the frame headstock. If it's been in a collision it may have been bent or badly repaired. Your life and the lives of other road users come before financial considerations. Also check whether the correct tyre and rim sizes are fitted.
In twenty years things have moved on in suspension, frame and tyre technology and your bike has probably suffered the odd bit of neglect.
If you have a squared off tyre then replacing it could make all the difference, so could something as basic as tyre pressure. On the other hand it could be something more serious.
Take a spanner and lightly run it round the spokes of your wheels, you should get a ringing musical tone from each. Youtube videos of how to check your bearings. Beyond that it might be beyond your ability to diagnose.
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