SHOWA 41 mm Outer Fork Bushing (OEM) for KAWASAKI KDX 125 and HONDA XL 600, XR 250, XR 350 1983-2004

The SHOWA SHO-51041 outer fork bushing is designed for HONDA XL 600, XR 250, XR 350 and KAWASAKI KDX 125 from 1983 to 2004. The outer fork bushing (guide bushing) is fitted at the top of the fork leg, under the oil seal: together with the inner fork bushing (slide bushing), it guides the sliding of the fork. Its PTFE (Teflon) coating reduces friction; once worn, the bronze shows through, the fork binds and the oil seals wear out faster.

Specifications

• Brand: SHOWA
• Manufacturer part number: SHO-51041
• EAN code: 8435622701424
• Guide bushing fitted in the outer tube (PTFE-coated inside)

When to replace it?

• Grey coating worn through: the copper or bronze shows on the bushing.
• Play in the fork when you rock the bike back and forth with the front brake on.
• Fork that binds at the start of its stroke, oil seals that leak again and again.

Check the bushings every time you replace the oil seals or change the fork oil. Replace them as soon as the bronze shows over more than a quarter of their surface.

Fitting tips

1. Disassemble the fork leg following the manual and separate the outer tube from the inner tube.
2. Remove the old bushing without scratching its seat, and clean the seat.
3. Fit the new bushing with a suitable tool (or using the old bushing as a driver), then install new oil seals.
4. Reset the fork oil level as per the manual.

Why SHOWA?

Showa was founded in 1938 in Gyoda, Japan, as Showa Aircraft Precision Works. After the war, the company put its aeronautical know-how to work on motorcycle suspension, notably for Honda, and the brand now belongs to the Astemo group, formed by a merger completed in January 2021.

Spare parts and items to plan

• Fork oil seals : SKF OSB-41S · SKF OSB-41K
• Fork oil : LIQUI MOLY 10W 500 ml
• Fork dust seals : ATHENA

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to change both bushings?
Check the outer and inner bushings on both legs: they wear together. Replace all those that show bronze.

Compatibility

Check the exact model and year of your bike in the list below before ordering.

Fits:
HONDA XL 600 1987
HONDA XL 600 1986
HONDA XL 600 1985
HONDA XR 250 2004
HONDA XR 250 2003
HONDA XR 350 1984
HONDA XR 350 1983
KAWASAKI KDX 125 1998
KAWASAKI KDX 125 1997
KAWASAKI KDX 125 1996
KAWASAKI KDX 125 1995
KAWASAKI KDX 125 1994
KAWASAKI KDX 125 1993
KAWASAKI KDX 125 1992
KAWASAKI KDX 125 1991