[Corse1]

Anyone had this problem where the needle wavers a bit when you are at a constant speed? This is on the analogue speedos of course! lookiang at a bike and not sure what could be at fault or if it is in need of replacement speedo to fix!!

 

[SS904]

Lube your speedo cable.

 

[Corse1]

Lube your speedo cable.

yep sounds obvious doesn't it! just want to make sure that I am not going to be in for a replacement speedo on a bike I may buy if it is a common problem. Well I guess it would be for people that do not lube their cable

 

[tonered]

Mine shakes, but isn't an issued. It will happen on uneven pavement, bumps, or just going along. If I remember correctly, my drill that turns 3,000rpm made the speedo show about 60mph. So, that cable is really getting a workout.

Have a good one.

 

[Gearbox]

It is not recommended to lube speedo cables as they can spiral the lube up into the dial body. Best to replace but first check it is all seated and tightened up properly.

 

[Corse1]

Thanks gearbox but it looks like I am going to have difficulty selling the Aprilia so the 996S with the shaky speedo might get out of my grasp! please please

 

[Fishmonger]

Clutch plates slipping? I experienced this symptom before replacing plates. Went away after. You would think you would notice the surging, but perhaps it is minute enough to evidence on the speedo needle. Then again it could be coincidence.

 

[tonered]

It is not recommended to lube speedo cables as they can spiral the lube up into the dial body. Best to replace but first check it is all seated and tightened up properly.

The cable has a collar at the top to prevent it from sliding down in the sheath. I don't have any evidence of lube being carried up the cable sheath.

Have a good one.

 

[tonered]

Thanks gearbox but it looks like I am going to have difficulty selling the Aprilia so the 996S with the shaky speedo might get out of my grasp! please please

Really? That is surprising due to the limited number produced and the near cult status of those little beasts.

Have a good one.

 

[SS904]

It is not recommended to lube speedo cables as they can spiral the lube up into the dial body.

They come lubed from the factory. Pull the center cable, wipe off the old nasty stuff and maybe clean it up with some WD40 if you like. Wipe on a thin coat of light grease, like the white lithium stuff, and reassemble. Maybe leave the last 2 or 3 inches of cable towards the speedo ungreased if you're concerned about it migrating up. I wouldn't though.

Or, just buy a new one. There are knock-offs on eBay for $20.00.

SPEED CABLE Ducati MONSTER 400 600 750 900 916 DARK | eBay

 

[Gearbox]

Unfortunately there are those who may be tempted to use a cable oiler and it is those to whom my warning is directed.