[ST] Suspension questions (was Ride Report...sort of...(long))

[Matthew Heyer <matthewheyer@xxxxxxxxx>]

Garry does a good job describing the suspension.  To add, in my experience, I set the preload first to get the right amount of movement from the suspension.  I then adjust damping to make sure the spring stiffness/preload doesn't overwhelm the bike (e.g . if the suspension has the right preload, you then don't want the spring to "pogo" - as Garry described, you want the suspension to settle back to its position and stop so it doesn't wallow). 
 
Most suspension techs you speak with will say the first most important component to set is the spring rate.  You must get the right spring for your weight/the bike, and then go from there.  Otherwise, everything else will be a compromise, and be adjusting to compensate.  The Sprint's have been getting better over the years (99-01 had softer stock springs than 02-04, and the cartridge fork came on the 05 and 06).  That said, the spring seems to be chosen for a "reasonable" pace and for comfort - too soft for real riding in my opinion.  If you are wanting to push the bike or have it behave ideally when riding through turns, over bumps, etc while maintaining optimum control, a stiffer spring is highly recommended.  For example, the proper spring rate for my Sprint and my weight is around the .95 - 1.0 kg/mm range, and the stock spring if .75 kg/mm - that's a substantial difference (the .75kg/mm would be recommended for a 65 lb rider!!).  Here's a link on chosing the components
 right:
 
http://www.factorypro.com/tech/Suspension_Setting.html
 
As for the behavior exhibited, here's a good link to what happens with each of the adjustments (note the lack of rebound damping..:
 
http://www.sportrider.com/tech/146_0006_susp_trouble/
 
 
Hope this all helps,
 
Matt Heyer
 


----- Original Message ----
From: BrettWilson21@xxxxxxx
To: ST@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Sent: Sunday, May 14, 2006 4:34:41 AM
Subject: [ST] Ride Report...sort of...(long)


Is the '05 ST softly sprung, meaning I could go to stiffer springs?

If the springs are designed to carry the weight of bike and rider, what 
effect does  damping have on the story?

Cheers,
Brett.
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