fork oil weight

[Clutch]

hey all,

I'm going to rebuild my front forks and wanted to know what weight of fork oil you all suggest.  I weigh about 170, don't usually carry much luggage, and don't carry passengers.  I'm installing new fork springs too.

thanks!

[Bob_Roller]

I've used the OEM BMW 7.5 w fork oil since I've owned the bike (01/81). I too am about the same weight, and no accessories, fairing or bags. If by chance you don't have the refill volume of fluid for each fork, it it 190 ml, and with a full rebuild it is common to add an additional 20 ml of fluid.

[Clutch]

got it Bob.  Thanks.  I probably won't be getting BMW brand, since there isn't a dealer nearby, though.  I'm gonna stop by a jap bike store after work and see what they got.  My plan is to replace the springs and seals, etc. this friday.

much appreciated!

[Bob_Roller]

I think the next most common weight fork oil is 10 w, and it will work fine. If you have not had the  forks apart before, the small drain plugs on the back side of the lower fork tube , are not tightened very much and strip out quite easily, so be extra careful there!

[Clutch]

I was planning on following the torque specs (if they list it) in my Clymer's.  I had someone help me change the fork oil about a year ago, and I think that is how we decided to tighten them but I can't remember.

[nhmaf]

My local Kawahonda shop only carries 5W and 10W oil.  10W is probably fine, though you
could also mix 1/2 5W and 1/2 10W and effectively end up with something close to 7.5W...

[xeffer]

Dont bother with mixing - Just use the 10w oil.. I put 10w in my forks, and it stiffens them up nicely. It gives you a little harder ride, but thats the compromise

[thrang]

I've fitted progressive front springs and use 15 weight oil as with the big RT faring on the rough Lakeland roads lighter oils make the front end rather bouncy. I've got a bit of bumf on my webpage about how I went about it if its any help.
Tony