K11 Owners Group

buckles · Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2012 5:51 pm Post subject: Steering lock

Thanks to everyone for all the help so far.
I have had my K1100 for a few months now and I have not managed to lock the steering. This has not been an issue because it is in a locked garage when not in use. However I will now need to lock the steering when away and would like to make it work. From the archives I see that the bars should be turned to the right with the key turned fully anticlockwise.
I also read that the lock should depress when turned to the 'lock' position from off? None of this is mentioned in the handbook.
From the off position I can turn one more position in the anti clockwise direction but the lock does not depress and they key will not come out. I did put some WD 40 into the key slot but so far no difference.
_________________
Ian, owner of:-
1999 K1100 LT

SugarHillCTD · Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2012 6:37 pm Post subject:

Ian,

The bars shouldn't be turned full right- just a bit to the right from center (or am I thinking of the Ducati?) Too many bikes in the garage. But try it?
_________________
John & Cathy

'92 K100RS4V Pearl White SOLD
'04 K1200GT
IBA Several-SS1k, BBG, 50CC NYC to S.F.

Inge K. · Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2012 6:44 pm Post subject:

Often the point where the steering lock engages lies slightly away from the full right handle bar turn.

Try to wiggle the handlebar slightly forth and back close to full right turn and at the same time add a gentle pressure
on the key in the anticlockwise direction, it`s no need to depress the key.

Inge K.

Tim (Midland Section) · Posted: Fri Jan 20, 2012 6:47 pm Post subject:

Yes the key should turn 1 click anti clockwise from "off" In this position the radio & map light (if left on at their local switches) should go off. The lock does not depress. Wiggle the bars whilst turning the key & it (the lock) should engage. Further turning the key anti clock will result in the steering remaining locked & the side lights coming on. Well it does on UK bikes & the Key should come out.
On My last K this did not work until I stripped & cleaned the lock.
If you need to do that, I can post a how to, if it isn't already in the stickies.
HTH
_________________
Regards Tim,

Grey haired riders don't get that way by pure luck
1996 Guzzi Cali3 LAPD
1972 750 Commando
G6HRN
#485

buckles · Posted: Sat Jan 21, 2012 1:48 am Post subject:

Hallelujah!! I cannot believe that I was unable to get to work before. Thanks very much again.
Initially I had no idea about turning to the right, but I guess that has something to do with driving on the wrong (right) side of the road in the Fatherland. It actually works about half way between straight ahead and right lock.
_________________
Ian, owner of:-
1999 K1100 LT

sccommuter · Posted: Thu Feb 09, 2012 7:41 pm Post subject:

I've got a follow up question to this. I've had my 95 lt for a couple of months and originally had the same problem, but now can lock the steering, but only when on the center stand. My question is can this bike's steering be locked while on the side stand?
_________________
1995 K1100 LT
Illegitimi non Carborundum

Scott_Anderson · Posted: Thu Feb 09, 2012 11:43 pm Post subject:

Yes, absolutely you can lock the steering on the side stand.
Personal experience suggests try locking the steering while you still have it upright before you lean it over on the side stand. Easier(less pressure) on the lock mechanism.
_________________
Ride safe.

1995 K1100LT 0302044
2017 FLHTK Ultra Limited
Garmin StreetPilot 2820
Garmin Zumo 550
Garmin Zumo XT
"One who does not ask questions is ashamed to learn" Danish proverb
1997 K1100LT 0302488(R.I.P.)
1997 R1100RT ZC62149(sold)

SugarHillCTD · Posted: Fri Feb 10, 2012 6:37 am Post subject:

Number 6 · Posted: Fri Feb 10, 2012 6:49 am Post subject:

However I do not recommand using steering lock: it is not that difficult to break and if broken will leaves wires accessible to start the bike.
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I am not a number, I am a free man.

94 K1100LT

sccommuter · Posted: Fri Feb 10, 2012 1:37 pm Post subject:

Scott, did as you recommended and it locks easily. I just have to remember to do it before putting it on its side stand- thanks! Not sure I like the lean angle though.

John, checked the movement as you suggested and it was smooth side to side, no odd feel ( i believe someone has used the term "notchy"). Wiggled the wheel front to back and no looseness.

Thanks guys for the tips!
_________________
1995 K1100 LT
Illegitimi non Carborundum

SugarHillCTD · Posted: Sat Feb 11, 2012 7:28 am Post subject:

Good to hear that you are good to go.

Happy roads.

John
_________________
John & Cathy

'92 K100RS4V Pearl White SOLD
'04 K1200GT
IBA Several-SS1k, BBG, 50CC NYC to S.F.