Motorcycle suspension explained - and how to set it up
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- Опубликовано: 16 дек 2023
- Of all the things I've done to my motorcycle, setting the suspension to my weight and riding profile is what gave me the most joy. If you are a beginner rider or never cared about suspension, this video may give you some great tips to get more out of your bike.
So if you are not a cure, dutch lady... this is for you. I never mentioned Itchyboots. You did.
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Авто/Мото
I get questions on which changes I have made to my suspension. When I had 60.000 km on the bike I thought it was time to service the fork and shock. Moving parts should be serviced even if it says nothing about it in the manual. But enduro people often service suspension.
I removed my fork legs and rear shock and sent them to www.rg3scandinavia.com
They serviced my original suspension. (New oil and worn parts). At the same time I asked them to tune the suspension for me. This means they changed the springs for my weight and they re-valved the dampers (customized the "holes"). In total this costed about €1000. The suspension is now tuned for me and it never bottoms out and handles very stable. Buying new fork/shock is much more expensive and for the type of riding I do this is all I need.
Cheers!
That service was way overdue, suspension service should be done at 30k
Interesting that the service manual does not speak of suspension at all. It has wear parts and oil that should be changed. The service workshop said that my suspension was needed but it was not badly worn. Cheers@@SupermotoCentral
Do you guys know Davemoss? Look it up suspension guru :D for road use I think he sais 20k KMS Is a good a mount to change the oil. And often finds that the OEM oil on most bikes is way to Thin from factory. For race use he changes the oil alooooot
FINALLY a clear and simple forward explanation of this spring-y subject!! Thank you 😊 ❤
And thank you!
Hahaha, this was absolutely genius and so well explain tjommi 😂👏🏻 Even my kid did understand this really well, so kudos for making this so easy and understandable 👏🏻 Now I just need to make myself a cord like that. I tend to be a little bit lazy with that stuff 🙈 But it is so damn easy when you think of it. Thank you. 🎥
Thank for the inspiration and for lending you name :D
Since your kid now knows the deed, have him/her make you the measure cord as well! Heck, make her/him do all you suspension settings!
And yeah, I concur @NomadSweden, the best easy explainations I have seen on InterNJET.
The best video about suspension I've seen!!! Great job!!! Thanks!!!
You make me happy 😊🙏
Fantastic!
I’ve been all over RUclips to get a good educational tutorial, and this is it! Go no further!
Well explained, very pedagogical - theoretics and the practice in the same video.
Well done sir!
BR,
MT, Göteborg
Tackar 🙏
This is the best explanation video on the subject of suspension that I have ever seen!
Thank you dearly!
I have been searching for an article on this topic for some time. Finally this one, explained and illustrated in a way that is very educational and straight forward. Now I understand the overall subject and know what to do to set up my bike. Versus all others that were the opposite. THANK YOU!
Thank you 🙏 it’s all i was hoping for
Fantastic Thank-you. You delivered this topic in a very Logical, sequential and definitive way. Finally a very clear and precise explanation and guide to adjusting the complete suspension.
Now I will go fine tune my Africa Twin. Many thanks.
Cheers!
A thoughtful, thorough, and clear explanation. I thought I knew suspension pretty well and you still taught me things! Thanks!😎
Cheers!
Thank you for explain this in a straight forward way!
I feel like I’m a expert after looking at your video, it simply makes sense.
Cheers 👍🏻
@@NomadSweden cheers to you really ! Do you have the same video explaining the front, or maybe the intimate relation between the rear and the front that defines the behaviour of the bike ?
Excellent explanation!
I would only like to add, that we should have a look and the feeling, that front and rear suspension shall work synchronized. Means, that the suspension shall react the same front and rear.
If e.g. the rear is to soft, you will have the „chopper-pogo stick-effect“, as in your chopper video, you can feel during riding.
A first simple base test while not riding can be this:
Sit on your bike with gear on, pull the front brake. Now make the bike suspending by move you body up and down standing up and let your but and body fall down to the seat. Look down and feel, if front and rear:
1. go down simultaneously deep and with the same speed .
2. go up simultaneously and with the same speed.
First try to see and feel the compression (down travel way and speed), and try to correct this as explained in the video.
Then the rebound.
And: In general it can be said, that if you change compression to be slower or faster, you might need to do more or less the same to rebound, because BOTH was set by the factory to work simultaneously for the Dutch lady.
And, as said in the video:
First find the settings in your manual. Don’t be afraid.
You can always go back to this.
Thanks for this great addition 🙏
Also, don't forget "her private parts" 😜, i.e., "All" extra weight, actually coming along the ride, on the bike (rider full gear, pillion fully geared, & luggage!)
Great video 👏
That was OUTSTANDING! Finally, I understand this. I’ve been making the suspension adjustments on my Africa Twin per Honda’s recommendations and the difference is dramatic!
Thanks 😊 glad it helped
Good introduction to the subject! It always astonishes me how few people have any awareness of this at all, when I fact it is one of the most important things in your bike! I think it is because it can be a bit confusing to wrap your head around but your explanation is one of the better I’ve seen. And I watched A LOT of videos on the subject when I tried to understand it better. 😂
It was two books that finally helped me feel I really started to get a grasp of the subject: “Race Tech's Motorcycle Suspension Bible” by Thede and Parks, and “Sportbike Suspension Tuning” by Trevitt. You’ve probably read them already but I figured I’d mention them in case you haven’t. 😊
Thanks bud 🙏
Excellent description of a difficult topic. Good effort.
Thanks :)
Probably the most instructive video from you ever! Very thought through and well illustrated! Congrat and well done!!! :-) All this suspension theory is a huge part of the reason I went for electronically adjustable suspension :-) Not as good as a well set up manually suspension but more likely to be fairly ok in my hands. Keep up the good work!
Thank you!
Great video. May I add that is important to know that rebound is affected with the suspension oil age / milage. If you have a older bike and never serviced the oil the oil will be thinner than when it was new and you will need to close the rebound tap more. The older it is thiner it is and only adjust after a ride so the oil can heat up. Older oil will change his behavior vs cold and hot.
Good tip 👍🏻 thanks
Good video. Lots of riders will find this very helpful. Unfortunately, not all bikes have a remote knob for easy rear pre-load adjustment and require a spanner to adjust. It is not as easy to do, and on some bikes, the rear shock is difficult to access.
Awesome explanation, even I understand it now. Hats off for the graphics, made like a pro!
Thanks! 🙏
Well done Robert, clear and simple explanation of the basic workings of the suspension. 👍🏻
Thanks :)
So complicated but so nicely explained.
Glad you liked it :)
Great tech talk, Robi! Keep up!
Wow what a brilliant explanation of suspension 👍 thanks so much I think I finally understand the "Dark Art of Suspension" lol best wishes Karl in Oz 🇦🇺
Thank you so much 😊
Well done! Very simple and clear.
Amazing video - thanks for sharing!
Great video, and good advice. Thank you.
Great explanation, easy to understand!
Great explanation and summary and thanks for sharing this topic in a smart way. I am not an suspension expert, however I'd like to add some aspects on rebound settings. After we hit a bump, the spring runs the shock back to and beyond the rider sag level. The rebound damping can compensate for this effect. I dial the rebound so that the shock makes only ONE movement to go back to the rider sag level (IN -> OUT + -> IN 0). If rebound is too weak we will feel more than one compensation movement after we hit a bump. Peace and Cheers
I think being humble is the fastest and best way to learn more. Thank you for this added knowledge and it rings a bell from my MTB days. I used to sit on my bike heavily and watch if the suspension went back to normal in one or more bounces. I had forgotten this :) Merry Xmas.
Thank you for the useful tips. It's very important.
This was a fantastic video - Thank you for taking so much time to explain this to a newbie!
I have a 990 adv 08 model . Changed out the rear spring 150 nm. for 125nm. Instantly better . The original spring is for guys 110 kg. I am 83 kg. Raise the fork clamps 3 to 5 ml. Far better on. and off road . Cost of spring $240 . Improvement much better , travel and comfort . Kev Australia Good Vid .
I knew the topic, but I stayed because of the delivery... very well done!
Chhers 😊
Perfect, simple and clear explanation. Thanks for sharing
What a great explanation! I have read/seen many and this is the best so far...thank you!
Thank you 😊🙏
Great dude! Im using your settings for months and helped a lot! Thank you!!! One of the best explanations about suspension I've saw!
Awesome, thanks 🙏
don't cut yourself with the saw though.
Yes! Thanks for taking the time to make this video. Well done
Thanks 🙏
Thank you very much for the good explanation, especially the graphics made it easy.
Glad you liked it 😊
Mate that was a very good explaination of the suspension system. The best I have seen, keep it up.
Thank you 🙏
Thank you so much for the time you spent to make this very good explanation video !
Thank you 🙏
Fantastisk at din nummerplade hedder OCD 😂💪🏻🥳
God video, jeg bruger sin standard setup på min T7 også, det har gjort OEM suspension meget bedre 💪🏻
Thank you ver much for this easy presentation of suspension❤
Claudio
Amazing explanation. Thank you, Man!
Thank you! Appreciate it
Tack sa mycket Robert. Again a helpfull video with simple explanation to understand. I am looking forward to your videos in 2024! All the best!
Thank you 🙏
Good points and a simple explanation of how things work. I learned to dial in what I had years back. Once set with proper spring rates there's not much to chase down. Adjust preload to load and compression for braking and road conditions. As for pogo stick riding my Alaska GF won the Nationals two times. I tell you that experience sure comes in handy on these long winter nights. Compressed and stretched with a big smile. Thanks. Happy Holidays to you and my Nordic ADV riders.
Thanks and happy holidays buddy!
Such a clear explanation! Thank you.
Very good explanation, thanks!
That is excellent content, I really enjoyed your clear and entertaining information delivery
This topic can be intimidating for some, your video will help so many new riders
Great job
10 / 10
Thank you for the 10/10 🙏🏻😃 Appreciate it
Very impressive graphics on this video! And the comparison with Thomas was hilarious 😂
Good work young man😉
Thanks man
Amazing video! This is what I was looking for!
Glad you liked it!
Excellent video! I love your production quality.
😊🙏
Riktigt bra förklarat, tack 🙂
This is a great video! I hope you get a LOT more subs. Great visuals.
Thank you so much!
Mate this is one of the, if not the best explainer I’ve seen on suspension! Are you a schoolteacher? If not, you should consider…
Haha thank you so much. Well I train customers, teach Taekwondo and used to teach flight school so I guess I am a teacher of sorts😊
Great explanation. Thanks !
Great explanation of suspension.
very well explained , thanks for the trouble Swedish Nomad, congrats
Thank you 🙏
Great Video!
Thank you very much!!!
Fantastic lesson. Finally, I understand suspension. You succeeded!
My goal is reached 😊 thank you
Great video and well explained 👍
best suspension setup vid I have seen!! Tusen Tack för denna!!!
😊🙏
Excellent! Thanks for the clear explanation of terms that are tossed around frequently. I have a good understanding of sag. It was one of the first things I changed on my KLR. The stiffer spring made all the difference when adding myself, riding gear, luggage, etc. The rebound and compression settings have always been unclear on more adjustable bikes. Now I know!
Thank you 🙏
Thank you , thank you 👌for making such a great explanation👌❤
Fantastic video, really great explanation 👍 👏
😊🙏
😊 Good explanation. Also the encouragement to look at the adjustability possibilities of your own bike. Dont be affraid to experiment a little with the settings, but for the compression and rebound settings : stay within / around the settings mentioned in your manual.
Indeed. Thanks
so many people dont do this in the first week i di a setup on my MT09sp and its make soooo much difference, Great video and helpful for those that dont know well done
😊🙏
Genial. Simple y efectivo. Buen trabajo 💪🏻
Thank you!
Motool's digital Slacker V4 tool = Coolest 'gadget' ive ever bought , i might be OCD but i use it nearly every single ride to adjust for what im carrying that ride on the spot , then also ive played with little more vs little less sag within the recommended amounts with this tool vs the old fashion way you can be soo exact and you dont need someone to help you .. Great Video !! sometimes this info seems complex to some you did a great job of explaining it
Thank you!
¡¡Finalmente, alguien explica claramente la suspensión!! gracias!!!
😊🙏
Brilliant video thanks, to a layman you've easily explained what it is, the settings and how and why you might want to adjust them. Thank you!
Cheers!
Very well explained, Robert. Happy days, Günter/Nürnberg
Happy days Günther
Absolutely useful film about SAG. Great job.
Thanks!
Brilliant!! I am aware that suspension is something like rocket science, and one video is not gonna make me an expert on the topic, but I feel I got at least the very basics. Thank you!!
Thanks 🙏
Doctor Robert, your diagnosis on the maladies of moto-suspension is crystal clear and the prescription for 'simple' manipulation rather than complex surgery is brilliantly explained. I am sure many patients will bounce back to a healthier ride after following your advice.
Thank you :D Just sending them home with an Aspirin will not work here. :D
My bike is not T7, but I have learned so much about rear absorver (amortisor). Your English is very clear and explenation is perfect. Congratulation.
Thank you 🙏
Takes alot of time to make a vid like that, thanks for the effort..this will be useful info when i buy a T7 and let my 701 go. Cheers.
Thanks 🙏
Hi there. I really like your content and I have learned a lot about my tenerè.
I also give a lot of importance to the suspension, because I think it is the basis of driving. My first step was to copy the configuration that you explain in a previous video and it improved a lot but... there is always a but...
I took it to a competition suspension specialist and we revalved both suspensions and changed oils, seals and sliders (surprisingly they were worn with only 9000 km) Everything new and original Kayaba.
The difference was noticeable, it improved a lot. With this I don't mean that they are ohlins but much better than the originals.
I come from 35 years of doing enduro and I know the utmost importance of putting the front and rear springs according to the weight of the rider (it's a before and after)
Now the question and my doubt.
The tenere comes prepared for a total load of 190 kg, so the springs are stiffer than those of a 75 kg pilot.
Do you think it is necessary to change them???? A pilot is lighter so softer springs would have to be used. Of course, they will no longer be able to accommodate 2 people and luggage.
It's just my opinion and I would like to know yours or someone on this channel.
Thank you very much and I really like the content on your channel.
Greetings from Spain, Galicia.
Thank you. I can only speak for the first version of T7. I know they later did some changes but not sure. But I do know my bike had too weak springs for my weight as standard. Great that you did the service and upgrade. Cheers
Yes I agree. Many people spend thousands on their suspension. The DRZ400 has great suspension. But in stock form not so great but not so bad either. But take the time to dial it in and get proper spring rate, and its pretty darn good. I have also changed valving too a bit.
Den mest intressanta videon jag sett på bra länge, hade inte en aning om detta.
Nu vet jag hur jag ska ställa in på min T7a som hämtas på måndag.
Stort tack för denna video 👍😎🤟
Man tackar och bockar
Thanks a lot for cleare xplanation
Geniusly explained
Cheers!
Amazing explanation... Thanks
Great video! I would only add that generally speaking, starting from the standard clicker settings from the owner’s manual. Once you put a stronger spring on the shock you will need to add rebound damping to counter the stiffer spring. Starting from the stock settings in the owner’s manual makes this easier.
Thank you. Good tip
Thank you for adding Turkish subtitles 🙌Important informations
Nice one Rob! I probably need a "tjockisfjäder" (heavy duty spring) at the rear, but have been pretty ok so far. Definitely needed it on the 690. I have set the sag pretty early on new bikes, i run it for some rides first to "run in" the suspension. I fiddle with the Compression on longer day rides, most often open it like 3 clicks and always keep the rebound a tad slower, typical 2-3 clicks tighter, than the compression. That works for me. Hard/fast rides = more stiff suspension, scrambling around on technical trails with ruts, roots, stones etc. i prefer a softer compression setting. Again, very good explanation and i see that this will help riders. /Matte
Cheers Tjommi
Excellent vid! Tack ✌️
Rebound is quite easy to adjust. There are rule for the front and back if you push on it. The hardest part is setting compression, because that's the only real setting that needs you to ride the bike in order to set it to your liking.
Best explanation on youtube! 🙏
Glad it was helpful!
Well explained and nice graphic animation, Robert.
I just like to add a few things:
- the pre-load adjuster is good to compensate 50-60 kg
- when the suspension guy ask about the rider weight, mention also the heavy parts like bash plate, pannier racks etc. that are permanently mounted on you bike
- springs have a tolerance, which can be easily 5% so a 5 N/mm stiffer spring can be more worse than your original
- consider also a stiffer fork spring in line with the rear spring
- front & rear suspension have a service interval, too so don't ride 50Tkm without a service
If you chance between solo and pillion rides the suspension is a compromise except the Dutch lady weights below 60 kg including gear/luggage.
Have a good final week before Christmas and remember, days are getting longer soon again in the Northern hemisphere.
Thanks for all the entertainment throughout the year(s),
Bernd 💙💛🏁🤛🏼
Thanks for the information 👍🏻👍🏻
Very interesting, I will try it on my T7
Great video and explenations about motorcycle springs. I really enjoyed it. I like how you make similarities with a Norweigian hipster and a little Dutch lady..... Can not at all understand who you talking about... lol
Cheers from Falbögdsbon i North Carolina
Gött mos!
As a cute little Dutch lady, I still watched it completely 😉
Sending it to my hubby as the previous owner seems to have screwed up the settings of the rear suspension.
Awesome :D
Top notch, thank you!
Well, this is fantastic! Even though I'm riding for almost 20 years now, suspension setting is like a black magic to me. And since I'm a guy of 110 kilos, normal settings (1 person + luggage etc) they are just a joke for me. I had to set the suspensions every time I had a new bike but never done it so far. Now, I have a new bike now, I will do it. But, it will be fantastic if you could give more tips about front suspension adjustment. Greetings from Turkey!
Thank you! For the front it's basically the same thing. If you can set preload set sag to 20-30%. The rest is compression/rebound on feeling as described.
excellent video
absolutely great video, you're genius, nice animations👋👍
Thank you very much :)
Great video fella thanks❤🙏👌
Ha, I think you might have missed your real calling as a teacher, Rob!! Seriously though, this was great and my smaller than average brain needs this subject to be refreshed from time to time to keep the understanding clear! I did use the settings you provided on that other video (with some tweaking as I am larger than you) and it was a great starting point to get it close to right, but I'm sure I would benefit from a heavier spring!! Cheers!
Thanks buddy 🙏
Best explanation ever !!!!!
😊🙏
Best explained video about suspension on internet
Oh thank you. Internet is big :)
Best idiotproof suspension explanation I have seen- just what I needed. The first, theoretical part was almost like Ryan F9 tutoring except for the lack of chalk and a whiteboard :).
Haha thanks mate