Suspension adjustment

[mjgaffney]

Hey all,

Where do you have your front and rear suspension set?

I had just grown accustomed to my Strom... it had become an extension of myself on the road. I took it in for its scheduled (4000 mile) service recently and I'd swear, when the tech took it for a test ride, that he adjusted the suspension or something because, although at first it rode just the same as ever, at the first stoplight there was an instant where it felt like a farther reach to the ground with my foot. Also, in corners now it feels a little unnatural, like I'm oversteering or something. I find myself constantly adjusting my line where before I'd just shwoop through the curves.

Anyway, since I'll be adjusting my suspension knobs shortly in an effort to regain my composure on the road, I figured I'd query the masses to see what everyones thoughts and experiences were on the matter.

What say you?

My bike is stock, with Caribou/Pelican bags. I only carry very light loads with them. The bags are GREAT, by the way. I recommend them for anyone in the market for side panniers.

Thanks. :wink:

[garry]

Check/set your suspension sag. The idea is for the bike to sag about 1/4 of it's suspension travel when you're sitting on the bike. For the Stroms, that is about 1.5" (35 - 40mm). The sag is the difference between fully extended (yes, lifting up on it) and sitting on it wearing all your riding gear and with the usual assortment of luggage. Obviously this requires a helper to measure while you balance the bike.

If it sags too much, increase the preload (knob for the rear, screw things at the top of the forks for the front). If it sags too little, decrease the preload.

[MightyShep]

I've got my rear pre-load almost maxed. It makes it a little rough, but I feel that there is better response. I have also raised my front forks by 15mm. This has changed the weight distribution more towards the front. By doing these simple mod's the Strom now handles like a sport bike...well as much as that big front tire will allow.

[water warrior]

Sounds like the tech jacked up the preload on the rear for his own preference and forgot to let you know the change.