Understanding Basic Suspension

Think about the buzz words that come to mind if you were to describe the perfect ride you want on your motorcycle. It’s amazing that when you describe the perfect ride, some of the terms contradict each other. Plush verses stiff, comfortable verses compliant. The question is “How do I achieve the best of both worlds”? Good suspension setup is the key to that great ride.

he first things we need to talk about are springs. How soft or stiff a spring depends on what type of riding you are doing, the travel of your suspension, the bikes weight, (and yes you knew it was coming) your weight. If you do nothing else to your suspension getting the right spring installed will make a huge difference.

The next part of the suspension equation is damping. Damping controls the speed in which the springs compress and return. This is where the terms compression and rebound come from. Too little compression damping gives you a lack of feel from the suspension (no connection to the ground). Too much compression damping slows the spring down so much that the force goes into the chassis and the rider (harsh ride). Too much or too little rebound damping have a huge effect on traction and well as control and harshness. Re-Valving will cure these issues.

The least amount of compromise is what you are looking for when you set up your suspension. Find a suspension technician who will listen to your needs and budget…

Good riding…Lenny

Moto-Services
13260 W. Foxfire Dr. #1
Surprise, AZ. 85374
623-544-3944
www.Moto-Services.Net