Shocking question

[rando]

Okay guys and gals, can someone shed some light on shock stuff for me? I know what preload is - at my size you have to.... I know about spring rates and such, but I don;t understand rebound and compression damping and how to know what I am adjusting for and such.

Is there a place on the net where this is discussed in easy to understand terms? I can figure out from the name what each does, just not sure of effects and such. Are either of the stock LT shocks adjustable in this regard?

Thanks
Rando

[jzeiler]

Rando,

Stock shocks only have a pre-load on the rear. There are no other adjustments so you are safe.

[rando]

Thanks. I didn't think the OEM shocks had other adjustments, but I'm also considering upgrading, possibly. I'm a big guy and add a normal wife and our stuff, and we need more spring, so why not get more farkles with the spring? plus I have seen that stuff before and would like to know how it works.

Rando

[jzeiler]

Most of the custom shock houses (Wilber, Ohlins) will ask you several questions about load and riding style. Then they, the experts, will tailor those settings for your style of riding. I am sure there are some good web sites that describe shock inner workings.

[sanjaun2]

You will never be happy with the stock shocks. Ohlins or wilburs seem to be a very good aftermarket replacement. But, They are not cheap. Make a huge difference in handling though.

[rando]

The stockers seem pretty crappy, imo. I'm sure they are a quality product, but for that much $$$, I ouwld think they would have put premium shocks on it. With all the fiddly adjustments available for the riders who are into such. the non adjustable front fork? I had that on my Vstrom, a $8K bike. An economical bike. The LT has so many things that can be upgraded, why not make them premium to begin with? I just don;t get that. I'm sure if I weighed 100 lbs less this might not be an issue.

this thing rattles like an 82 escort on anything bumpy - suspension is weird. Of course, I'm used to more conventional suspensions, in the bike's defense.


Rando

[Hilton]

I found some useful info about suspension here.

http://www.gostar-racing.com/club/motorcycle_suspension_set-up_faq.htm

[rando]

Thanks, I'll check it. For anyone else that may be interested, I found this too.

http://www.sportrider.com/tech/146_9608_tech/

Rando

[Fred]

Rando Please do yourself a favor and stop screwing around with suspensions made for children (ie. 5-8 180 lb average ).Get yourself a Works Performance Products shock It is built to your specifications hight weight load travel etc..It has adjustable sag and rebound along with instructions so you know whats what. Yes of course it also has a damper wheel.Better yet it is a new unit so you have no down time. SMOOTH RIDES AHEAD...