Should there be a notch in the steering?

GeorgeShaw

I just got back from the day's ride, and as I thought that the steering was feeling a bit reluctant, I thought I'd check that the cables weren't binding or anything. Instead, it seems like there is a notch in the steering, dead ahead, so much so that it self-centres easily from a few degrees out either way.

I don't remember this being there before, so I'm wondering whether this can be normal, or whether this is wear, or something that needs adjustment. The bike's a year and 1,500 miles old, and the steering has never been stripped in that time. I've never hit anything, which could make a notch in the bearings, I guess.

Rich Hcp

Could be uneven wear in the bearing

fossyant

Bearings/race overtightened !

AndyGates

The bearings have worn that notch in the cups.

Replace the headset.

If you're a cheap-arse and are handy with tools, you could disassemble the headset, rotate the bearing surfaces 90 degrees, and reassemble.

GeorgeShaw

Thanks peeps. Looks like a trip to the LBS.