I have 2 riding buddies that went down due to failed front wheel bearings. Wrenchy is spot-on, torquing the axle bolts correctly is critical. Additionally, the center spacer between the 2 bearings must be the proper length. If it has any play, excessive preload will be applied to the center of the bearings.

I use All-***** brand wheel bearings and change them every 4th tire change. Cheap insurance.

 

Where do you find timken bearings to replace the bearings in my new slim?

 

My 5 cent on understanding the center spacer plus the older style tapered bearings with the shim set.

 

Mine lasted 9k miles.
I put it down to cheap Chinese made bearings, and the move from double row to single row.

The All-***** bearings that I installed at 9K miles have done 12k miles and feel fine.

https://www.hdforums.com/forum/softa...ngs-trash.html

 

I had to replace mine around 7500 miles in my '08 Night Train. It had a growl on the rear. I changed all of them out. I went with SKF brand in mine and they are still feeling smooth at a little over 15000. When I do tires in the spring I will swap them out anyway. As others have said, cheap insurance.