? for RM guys

RM guys...yeah!
I'm assuming installation was done correctly, (and that's not meant to be an insult.) If old bearings were real pitted, races should have probably been replaced too. Tighten bearing nut just a little past hand tight and then torque upper tripple clamp nut to specs. I have not had real good luck with the cheaper Korean bearings (if that's an issue)

I have a 2004 RM 250 and have had to replace my steering stem bearings. They, too, were rusted out. I replaced them with Pivot Works - top and bottom bearings and races. I did that in January after one year (I greased them when I bought the bike and six months later, too). I just checked them again a few weeks ago and they were showing signs of rust again. I decided to use the thick Bel Ray grease instead of the lighter Torco grease I was using.

If I remember, my Honda had a 'cover' over the top of the bearings. I looked up the part, and they call it a dust cover. I'm thinking of seeing if this will work on my Suzuki to keep the water from getting down there. Right now it looks like an easy route for water to make it down. Honda also has a lower dust cover, and I'm thinking of trying one of those, too.

Anyone have any solutions to protect the bearings better? Ditto for the rear - I just had to replace my rear linkage bearings.

I use marine wheel bearing grease on my steering bearings ( and linkage ) I have no rust problems.

Maybe just an RM issue (or Suzuki saving $ on grease). i pressure wash, and avoid spraying near bearings, but they were still rusty when i checked them. haven't checked my linkage bearings.