I had mine go stiff on a 1 year old Suzuki GS500 a couple of years back with 10k miles on the clock. At the time I just regreased them and they worked fine for another 5k miles till I sold the bike.

Do you use your XT for greenlaning or wheelies? That would normally damage them prematurely. Could also result from using a pressure washer or hose pipe on full blast directed at the steering area.

Good luck with getting them replaced. I hope Yamaha cover it under warrantee, it's not a consumable item like brakes or tyres so they should really cover it.

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XTR - Black and modded for greenlaning - now sold and replaced with an Aprilia Pegaso Factory. Hey, at least I've gone with the same engine!