Some times Sagging is a good thing.
Setting the ride sag on your motorcycle is crucial for optimal suspension performance and comfort. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Tools Needed
- Tape measure
- A helper (optional)
- Marker or pen
- Motorcycle stand (optional)
Step 1: Gather Information
1. **Check Specifications**: Refer to your motorcycle's manual for the recommended sag range. Typically, it’s around 25-30% of total suspension travel for street bikes.
Step 2: Prepare the Motorcycle
1. **Find a Level Surface**: Park your motorcycle on a flat, level surface for accurate measurements.
2. **Check Tire Pressure**: Ensure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
Step 3: Measure Static Sag
1. **Get Unloaded Height**:
- Using a tape measure, measure from the rear axle to a fixed point on the bike (like the fender or seat). Record this measurement as **A**.
2. **Get Loaded Height**:
- Sit on the bike in your normal riding position (with gear on if you usually wear it). Have someone help you balance if needed.
- Measure from the rear axle to the same fixed point again. Record this as **B**.
3. **Calculate Sag**:
- Subtract the loaded height (**B**) from the unloaded height (**A**) to find the sag measurement (Sag = A - B).
Step 4: Adjust the Sag
1. **If Sag is Too Low**:
- **Add Preload**: Locate the preload adjuster on your shock (usually a collar). Turn it clockwise to increase preload, raising the bike and reducing sag.
2. **If Sag is Too High**:
- **Reduce Preload**: Turn the preload adjuster counterclockwise to decrease preload, lowering the bike and increasing sag.
Step 5: Recheck Measurements
1. Repeat the measurement process (steps 3.1 to 3.3) to confirm you’ve achieved the desired sag.
2. Make small adjustments and re-measure until you're within the recommended range.
Step 6: Final Check
1. Once you’re satisfied with the sag, take the bike for a short ride.
2. Pay attention to the feel of the suspension; make additional adjustments if necessary.
Step 7: Document Settings
1. Write down your final preload setting and sag measurement for future reference.
Tips
- Be patient and take your time with adjustments to find what feels best.
- If you’re unsure or uncomfortable making adjustments, consult a professional mechanic.
By following these steps, you can ensure your motorcycle’s ride sag is set correctly, leading to a more enjoyable and controlled riding experience!
Tools Needed
- Tape measure
- A helper (optional)
- Marker or pen
- Motorcycle stand (optional)
Step 1: Gather Information
1. **Check Specifications**: Refer to your motorcycle's manual for the recommended sag range. Typically, it’s around 25-30% of total suspension travel for street bikes.
Step 2: Prepare the Motorcycle
1. **Find a Level Surface**: Park your motorcycle on a flat, level surface for accurate measurements.
2. **Check Tire Pressure**: Ensure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.
Step 3: Measure Static Sag
1. **Get Unloaded Height**:
- Using a tape measure, measure from the rear axle to a fixed point on the bike (like the fender or seat). Record this measurement as **A**.
2. **Get Loaded Height**:
- Sit on the bike in your normal riding position (with gear on if you usually wear it). Have someone help you balance if needed.
- Measure from the rear axle to the same fixed point again. Record this as **B**.
3. **Calculate Sag**:
- Subtract the loaded height (**B**) from the unloaded height (**A**) to find the sag measurement (Sag = A - B).
Step 4: Adjust the Sag
1. **If Sag is Too Low**:
- **Add Preload**: Locate the preload adjuster on your shock (usually a collar). Turn it clockwise to increase preload, raising the bike and reducing sag.
2. **If Sag is Too High**:
- **Reduce Preload**: Turn the preload adjuster counterclockwise to decrease preload, lowering the bike and increasing sag.
Step 5: Recheck Measurements
1. Repeat the measurement process (steps 3.1 to 3.3) to confirm you’ve achieved the desired sag.
2. Make small adjustments and re-measure until you're within the recommended range.
Step 6: Final Check
1. Once you’re satisfied with the sag, take the bike for a short ride.
2. Pay attention to the feel of the suspension; make additional adjustments if necessary.
Step 7: Document Settings
1. Write down your final preload setting and sag measurement for future reference.
Tips
- Be patient and take your time with adjustments to find what feels best.
- If you’re unsure or uncomfortable making adjustments, consult a professional mechanic.
By following these steps, you can ensure your motorcycle’s ride sag is set correctly, leading to a more enjoyable and controlled riding experience!