Ohlins Fork Seal

[PeterT]

I had leaks on my Ohlins seals which you know you've got when oil starts appearing on your boots.  I took the bike in and got them changed with new fork oil which was probably due at 12kmiles.  But after less than one year and about 3-4kmiles more one started leaking again.  I got an inexpensive Seal Mate (www.sealmate.net), although a piece of 35mm film stock cut into the right curve may do it, and after removing the mudguard for better access, slipped it under the seal lip and slowly rotated it and withdrew it.  I couldn't see any dirt.  I then pumped the seals but even after 5 times it was still leaking with a film of oil on the forks.  However, when I took it for a ride, the seals reseated and there was no more leak.  I only mention this experience as a fairly easy option that should be tried first.  I'll never know if my initial problem could have been cured by this method.