Suspension

[madman748]

With all the modifications being done to bikes, I feel the suspension is the one component that most overlook. With a properly set up suspension, your bike will feel like it gained power and be much more rideable.

Motorcycle manufacturers design and ship bike with the understanding that just about any size or type of rider may end up riding them, not to mention the parts must be easily manufactured and cost effective within a certain price point. The bike may end up anywhere in the world and used in any number of environments (i.e. raced, commuted, occasional use, etc.). The factory has to maintain it's reputation by making certain that under any condition the bike will perform fairly well.

Suspension tuning is a step-by-step process. I feel that getting the springs sorted out first will set a good base to continue the tuning process. Damping follows. Here's a rough outline:

1. Set approximate ride height.
2. Verify and adjust, if necessary, fork oil height.
3. Measure and adjust spring rate - this can be done by changing springs
4. Set sag - this is done by adjusting preload.
5. Adjust damping for riding conditions.
6. Fine tune ride height.
7. Re-set sag.

Here are a few sites that provide basic suspension tuning:

http://world.honda.com/HRC/tech/result/all_s02.html

http://www.sigmaperformance.com/suspension-chassis.html

http://www.gostar-racing.com/club/mo...ion_set-up.htm

You have to test and take note any suspension changes. It's important to make changes to one component at a time. A basic worksheet can be found here:

http://www.yamahafz1oa.com/images/su...-worksheet.pdf

Good luck.

[The_Arsenal]

Thank you, and that worksheet will be put to good use soon
that should actually read "worksheets" with an S.