Vibration in the CR500.

[Ron & Janeen Macom]

I've recently purchased an '89 CR500. I've only riddin it once and
noticed a pretty annoying buzz/vibation that only happens at higher
speeds. I've heard and read that the CR500 has a tendency to vibrate.
Does anyone have any feedback or tips on this situation?

Ron

[Jeff]

CR500's have big pistons! Approximately the same size as a 5.0 liter V-8, so
it's going to vibrate more than any 125 or 250 even when it's brand new. But
there are a lot of things you can check that may reduce the vibration. My
'97 CR500 only took 6 months to shake three of the four engine mounting
bolts so loose you could spin them with your fingers. So here is the list.

1) Check all engine mounting bolts, even the cylinder head hanger hiding
under the fuel tank.
2) Check the swing arm pivot. It also runs through the back of the case.
3) The foot peg pivot pins may be worn.
4) Tighten all the pipe mounts, check the condition of the rubber grommets
and get new springs for the head pipe.
5) Check the steering head bearings are snug.
6) This is the only one that will cost you. Get GOOD aluminum bars.

I used to think that it was a bunch of crap that aluminum bars would dampen
vibration, but good ones will. I tried some cheap "Pro racing" aluminum bars
($39) but they made no difference, and they bent like a pretzel after a
moderate fall. Then I tried some Alumilite bars ($65). All I can say is the
difference is truly amazing, they were worth every penny.

Jeff
97cr500 (mine)
97kdx200 (wife's... well it's really mine too)
97kx100 (The Boy)

[k...@nospam.com]

AMEN to this comment. My 540DXC vibrates also. Checking all bolts for
tightness frequently is important!

[RW1803]

One of the ways you can stop the problem is by installing "Nylon
lock nuts" on all your engine bolts, and if you want to go one step further I
bought "Stainless Steel Nylon lock nuts" and replaced all
the nuts on my KX500. Also by adding a flywheel weight helped

Ray

83 Yamaha XT550
89 Kawasaki KX250
78 Kawasaki KZ1000

[James Ray Crenshaw]

>AMEN to this comment. My 540DXC vibrates also.

In the late 1970's or early 1980's, KTM made a 500
that was as smoooooooth as silk. It was like riding
an electric-powered dirt bike... with a BIG battery.

I know we are TOLD why 500's vibrate so badly, I
just wonder what might be possible if there were
any FINANCIAL reason for the manufacturers to
work on this problem.

Food for thought;
Ray Crenshaw in SC (USA)
<remove NOSPAM to spam me>

[Jason Clishe]

My buddy's '97 KX500 vibrates big time at all RPM's. Then I get back on my
YZ400 and it feels like I'm riding on air.

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Jason Clishe, MCP Sequoia Diversified Products
jcl...@ix.netcom.com www.sequoianet.com

Visit The Clishe Files
www.sequoianet.com/personal/jclishe

'98 YZ400F

Clarkston, Mi
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