Posted by Andrew on April 27, 2003 at 10:03:54:
In Reply to: Front wheel alignment posted by Richard D on April 27, 2003 at 07:41:43:
Hi Richard,
DeBeerizBitter's method of checking the real wheel alignment with the two planks is a very accurate method. You can get a rough idea by checking that the real axle is set to the same reference mark on each side of the swinging arm.
It sounds like your front forks may not be correctly aligned in the steering head and stem.
Loosen the allen bolts, one on each lower steering stem - they're called the lower fork bridge bolts in the Clymer manual and they're just below the indicators. With these two bolts slackened, pump the front suspension a few times. This should get things aligned. If not, get an assistant to hold the front wheel while you turn the handlebars until everything is aligned. Make sure you tighten the fork bridge bolts securely when the wheel has been aligned - your life depends on it. The correct torque is 25-35 Newton Meters. If you're not using S.I. units, that's 18-26 foot pounds.
A couple of comments -
1. The problem you describe could be caused by accident damage - unlikely if the bike has only done 45 miles - but you never know.
2. I would take the bike back to the dealer. It is very poor service to supply a bike in the condition you describe.
Happy Savage riding.