On the dirtbike I just bought, I bought it with a leaky fork seal, and riding it has drained all of its fork oil. (not while riding, it drained out on the garage floor overnight) Does this do any spring or bushing damage, or is the oil just there for dampening purposes. I'ts getting fixed tomorrow, just wanna know if I put too much wear on the thing.
It does provide some lubrication for bearings and other internals. Reducing friction reduces wear, and helps keep the seals from wearing out too quickly if they were dry.