K1200rs Soft front end on 18,000 mile bike.

[jrb5353]

Can the fork fluid be changed (drained) without dismantling the front end?

[PGlaves]

Can the fork fluid be changed (drained) without dismantling the front end?

I think the answer is "sure" - remove the axle and remove the capscrews that go straight up into the bottom of the sliders. I say think because I don't have that model - so go look. Also verify two little capscrews in the top of the forks for filling.

The oil will dribble out - until you pull the sliders down about 1/2 inch - at which time it gushes. Take the top plugs out first and they will gurrgle and splash less.

That said - all that oil does is lubricate. No damping - no suspension - which all comes from the Telelever strut (shock).

[deilenberger]

As Paul mentioned - the fork oil has no effect on damping (soft).. you may want to start looking into a replacement shock if your RS shock doesn't have adjustable damping (unsure - never owned one..)

If it does have a screw on the side of the bottom of the shock where it goes into the telelever wishbone - try turning the screw clockwise a turn. If that helps - try another turn. Keep turning until it gets too harsh for you, and back it off.

If there is no screw - the aftermarket offers lots of solutions at different price points.

[jrb5353]

Thanks, I appreciate the info!!!!!