How do you set up a suspension?

UberGoober · 02-21-2005, 12:37 AM

I've ridden bikes for almost 20 years but I've never set up a suspension. OK, one time I shot some air in the forks of my GS850, but other than that, I've never really felt the need to fool with the factory suspension settings on any bike I've ever owned. That said, I'm not really happy with the way my GSXR1100 is set up right now.

For a starting point, I think the bike was obviously set up for a person who is lighter than I am. I can say this because 1: I live in Japan where people are generally smaller than in the USA and 2: I'm a lot fatter than most people anyhow. Other than that bit of intuition, I'm clueless...

I have the manual and I know how to do the adjustments, which is why I don't consider this a "fix it" thread and didn't post it there. But I need some feedback on what "good handling" is and how you know it when you find it. You racer's go closer to the edge than I ever will, so your setup matters a lot more. Can you describe the process to getting a good set up?

jeeps84 · 02-21-2005, 12:44 AM

Set the geometry first and don't worry much about the rest.
Take it to a shop and get the forks revalved and a new spring for the rear!
Even in the US most sport bikes are set for rider weighing around 165 to 180 lb.

Squid Killer · 02-21-2005, 07:47 AM

Your fork oil probably needs replacing after 14 years.

Suspension is a trial and error thing for most of us. I have a pro set mine up at the track.

RayOSV · 02-21-2005, 01:00 PM

I've found lots of good info here:

http://www.sportrider.com/tech/146_0006_susp/

At least you can understand what's working and what's not.

I have no clue about your bike, but remember that spring rates (especially front fork) are the most weight-sensitive part of the puzzle.

RACER X · 02-21-2005, 01:48 PM

goto a trackady, and usually they're will be an outfit there "tuning" susp. for like $20, so will keep working on it throught the day.

susp. stuff is kinda a black art, and best to start w/ pro. help......initially

the pro's usually work at a shop somewhere.......if no trackdays, find their shop.

UberGoober · 02-21-2005, 08:14 PM

Thanks for the input. It definitely seems to be more an art than a science. Thanks for the link Ray - looks good.