I am in Samarkand and the steering bearing on my 2007 F650GS is starting to go sour. It gets that little spot dead center where it sticks a bit. I had the same problem in South America in 2009 and rode for 4000 km with no problems. But I do not want to repeat as I have far to go.


I need a source for the bearings in Uzbekistan, Tajikistan or Kyrgyzstan. They are a BMW part, but also have a generic auto part bearing number. There is no motorcycle culture here in Samarkand. So I doubt I could find a shop and repairs. But I have been wrong a lot.


This is the BMW part number and part of the discussion from the BMW Chain Gang group.I found the common auto part number for the bearing on the Chain Gang website for F650s.

"•Steering head bearings (two) 31 42 1 240 571 (320/28X 28x52x16) Note: This number may have been changed to 07 11 9 985 070
•Spacer (protective cap, two) 31 42 1 234 509
•High temperature bearing grease

Note 1: Most auto parts stores sell the appropriate bearings (ask for two BR32 bearings). If you are careful, you can re-use the "spacer" (metal cap that covers the bearings). However, driving the bearings out with a machinist punch may perforate these caps. Lastly, bearing replacement can be done without the special BMW socket, though the socket no doubt makes it easier. Scott ID, #1244"

Note 2: See the Parts and Fiches FAQ for alternative part numbers

This is the link to the page http://faq.f650.com/GSFAQs/GSSteeringHeadBearingReplacementFAQ.htm



Any suggestions and help is appreciated. I will ride to Osh tomorrow and be there on the 13th.


Fritz