Why is there a ball joint and not a ball bearing (or needle bearing) used where the shock is attached to the fork (or link in older models) and frame? Ball bearing(s) should have much greater durability than a ball joint. I understand that a ball joint will be flexible if frame/fork flex out of line under load, but will the alignment of fork/shock/frame ever really be off??
In fact, if I remember correctly my old unbreakable XR400 had a needle bearings instead of a ball joints...and never needed replacement.
If one would install a ball bearing (same outer diameter as the ball joint, inner diameter same as the bolt – no inserts). Would there be any damage??
In fact, if I remember correctly my old unbreakable XR400 had a needle bearings instead of a ball joints...and never needed replacement.
If one would install a ball bearing (same outer diameter as the ball joint, inner diameter same as the bolt – no inserts). Would there be any damage??
