Setup

[littonlad]

How do I know if my bikes suspension setup is best for my height/weight/riding style?

And if it isn't how do I find out what's best and then actually alter it?

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" To Insanity and Beyond! "

[garry]

The first, and most important step, is to set "static sag". In a nutshell, you want the rear to compress (approx) 30mm and the front 35mm with and all your gear/etc sitting on the bike. That difference is measured from fully extended. The idea is that the suspension is most effective in the middle third of its travel. Track use is usually less sag, street use might be more, but the 30/35mm targets are good starting point. Sag is easily modified using the spring preload adjusters front and rear (see your owner manual).

- Garry

[frizbee_dog]

If you are a lot lighter or a lot heavier than the target demographic you may need to have your springs replaced too.

First thing is set your rider sag. That's when you set the spring pre-load to get a certain mm of sag when your on the bike.

Next check your static sag, basically how far the bike compresses under just the load of the bike (no rider). This number will change every time you reset your rider sag due to the change in pre-load on the spring.

If the static sag is way off then your spring has too much or not enough preload (due to an incorrect spring).

If the static sag is too little – the spring is too soft.
If the static sag is too much – the spring is too stiff.

When your checking sag, bounce the bike (whether your on it or not) to get the shock in it's natural resting place. There may be some stiction and bouncing will settle it in.

It is possible to order springs/valves from race tech or elsewhere. You tell them height/weight/riding style and they send you a recipe. However, my recomendation is to bring it in and have it done. You need special tools to do valves/springs/oil levels and knowledge. If you just want to do what you can, do some research on spring preload, compression damping and rebound damping. You can fiddle with your clickers and pre-load to get it as close as possible without a teardown.



[ This message was edited by: frizbee_dog on 2004-07-29 16:14 ]

[dolson]

One thing to remember is that the rear preload is set with CLICKS not turns. Mine came from the factory with 12 turns out which is 24 clicks. It felt like it had rubber bands for a suspension. I called a few buddies when I got home and set it right for me. It takes a few guys to help lift you and the bike and take the measurements. Don't bring the beer out till all the calculations are done.

Don