Triumphrat

Jonny955 · 06-09-2006

Without wishing to open a debate on aftermarket shocks (yet)...

I have adjusted the Pre-load and rebound damping for each ride, according to the manual and load on the bike. Pillion and luggage = full preload (5) which was fine on hols, Preload solo = 3 which is OK for now but the preload setting for a passenger only (no luggage) is still 3.

I wound it up a bit last night (probably about 3.5 but it's hard to see) with the missus on the back and it was a bit better but I'm now thinking of raising the forks 25mm through the yokes.

I did this on my 93 Steamer and it gave a noiticable improvement in steering response. I've heard of this being done to the earlier 'girly' Tigers too but as mine is an silver-framed model with revised forks and steering geometry, I was wondering if anyone has tried it?

I'm not looking to replace the rear shock or anything - just getting to know the bike better and learning what works best under various loads.

Thanks
Jon

PS - I'm loving this bike more each time I ride it...and like my '93 I enjoy the slow rides as much as the fast ones.

KuzzinKenny · 06-10-2006

Hi Jonny955, i think the front drop should be up to 20mm for this model. if you go to much i have read somewhere that you will get speed wobble.

someone might confirm this !!

KK

Jonny955 · 06-20-2006

Thanks KK - this 20mm figure sounds like the same I've heard for all injected models but the 05-on Tigers have a stiffer front end to begin with & revised rake and trail.

I'm concious that dropping the yokes on an already quicker steering bike will have a more spectacular effect than on the 'lazier' steered bikes. Oh well, I guess the proff of the pudding and all that.

Jon

Trumpeteer · 06-21-2006

Followed Kenny's lead last weekend and fitted some ultrabright LED's ( work a treat, good one Kenny). Anyway, while the fairing was off I dropped the forks through the yokes by 10mm (figured the 20mm would be too drastic as I would probably end up sliding forward into the tank all the time). The bike is still rock steady at all speeds up to 100mph, even on bumpy roads. It turns into corners quicker and tracks true all the way round, even over bumpy Norfolk B & C roads. Low speed handling hasn't been affected as far as I can tell. Have yet to try it two up with luggage on, but I'll let you know if there are any problems. :-D

BC · 06-23-2006

Hi Johnny555, I have dropped my 06 20mm at the front forks, to lose some height, and found that the steering is indeed sharper on turn in. Have not noticed any wobble at speeds of up to 165klm, 2 up with hard panniers on. The only thing to be mindful of is the lean is not as great when parking on the sidestand. All and all I am pleased with the result.

BC

Jonny955 · 06-24-2006

Thanks for your advice, gents.

I've just come in from a really lovely evening ride and found that, due to me pushing on a bit (maybe a bit more confidence in the new bike) I'm beginning to find the limits of the suspension. Over my usual twisties I'm now reaching the same speed as I did on my Ducati - work that one out!

I've decided to try and wind up the rear preload to position 5 for solo (book says 3) and keep it there - will also move forks up 20mm.

And, I'd also like to thank you Kenny 'coz after tonights 'guess the speed' glances at my clocks, I'll be doing the same LED mod!

Otherwise, I'm very pleased with 'Balu' (the missus named her!)