MACHINE TUNING 4-15
SUSPENSION BALANCE
Balancing the front to rear suspension properly is the most critical adjustment for suspension performance. If
the front forks are adjusted harder than the rear suspension, such as changing to heavier front fork oil, stiffer
compression and rebound setting, air pressure build up in the forks and so on, the front forks will collapse
less on bumps. This transfers more of the motorcycle and rider weight rearward, possibly causing the rear
suspension to bottom, where as it felt fine before the front fork adjustment was made.
BALANCE TEST
Stand next to the motorcycle on level ground. Place one foot on the foot rest closest to you. Sharply push
down. The front and rear suspensions should both collapse equally.
BALANCING TIPS
• Check for air pressure build-up in front forks. Heat and altitude will increase air pressure in the front forks.
• Always stay within sag measurement limits, 100 mm (3.94 in), when using spring pre-set to stiffen or
soften rear suspension. If this is not possible, the next stiffer or softer accessory spring is needed.
• The rear shock compression damping can be used to fine tune suspension balance and is easy to
access.
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