Steering Head

[K75RT Keith]

So, I'm going to ride my 90 K75RT from OH to Salem and I'm looking for brand recommendations for bearings. (OEM All Balls etc.)   When I tested the steering head bearings, I have no front to back or back to front slop (looseness for you tech types) but there it fees stiff when you turn right to left or left to right.  Does this mean the bearings are going?   With just short of 44k on the clock should I do the front wheel bearing too?  They currently run smooth with no noise.

[Scott_]

How "free" are the the cables and wiring that connects to the handle bars. This stuff can restrict the "free" movement of the steering if there isn't enough slack.
Excessive grease can give a "little" bit of drag, but shouldn't be noticeable when riding.

[K75RT Keith]

Cables and wiring are not restricting movement.  Stiffness is felt when turns are initiated. is is noticeable when riding.  I haven't greased the head bearings in the last 2 years and I haven't changed the position of the adjuster since I bought the bike.

[Grim]

Good Video on headsets checking and replacing headset bearings.
Make sure young ears are not within hearing distance. ;)
Part 1

Part 2

[K75RT Keith]

Thanks Grim.

[K75RT Keith]

Tore the steering head apart and found 2 problems. 

First that the oem self hardening BMW grease had solidified making turning difficult
Second, There was corrosion on the lower bearing that also created additional drag.

Replaced the bearings and seals and it now feels much better.