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Symptoms of the rear shock absorber:
- Too hard:
1. The suspension is too stiff
Compression damping is too high.
Spring is too hard.
2. Is hard to ride
Unbalanced condition between the spring and rebound (too low).
3. The spring is hard or preloaded too much
- Too soft:
On landing after a big jump, the suspension makes jounce stops.
1. Soft spring or compression damping is too soft.
2. Degraded shock absorber oil
Determining the proper settings:
- Standard Settings
From the factory, the machine is set up for an average-weight rider with
average riding abilities. Hence, if the actual rider’s weight or if his riding
experience and abilities are considerably superior or below the average, ii
is necessary to make adjustments to the suspension.
- Readjustment of the suspension:
Ground surface
Smooth
Soft spring
Rough
Hard spring
Riding experience
Beginner:
Soft spring with rebound.
Experienced:
Harder spring.
Rider’s weight
Heavy:
Hard spring.
Light:
Soft spring.
Type of racing circuit
- Many corners:
Lower the front end slightly (Raise the fork tubes 5 mm).This increases
agility.
- Fast course with many jumps:
Raise the fornt end slightly (Lower the fork tubes 5 mm).
- Deep potholes or sandy ground:
Raise the front end slightly to gain stability.
After making such preliminary adjustments, begin the actual on-track testing
and evaluation.
CAUTION
1 - Make changes one step at a time.
2 - Make sure the rider is consistent in this evaluation.
3 - A change in the front suspension requires a change in the rear,
and vice versa.
Front and rear compatibility:
Use this procedure to determine if the suspension is balanced. Place the mo-
torcycle upright. While standing next to the right side of the motorcycle, hold
the front brake and press the rear brake pedal firmly. If the motorcycle main-
tains its level attitude as the suspension is compressed, the spring rates are
well balanced. Sit astride the motorcycle and take a riding posture. Next check
to see that the motorcycle is in a horizontal position. If one end drops notice-
ably more than the other, the front and rear are not compatible and must be
readjusted to achieve a better balance.
This is one of the most effective adjustment procedures but suspension set-
tings will vary depending on the conditions at the terrain and the rider´s pre-
ferences.