Fork Springs

[zuluwiz]

I just acquired a set of used stock forks for the Ratzuki (GS850), and am wondering if this is a good time to put some new springs in, that is before installing. Should I go for progressive wound springs or will the stockers be ok? I am rather hefty and heavier springs might work for a better ride. Which would be best? Would i need to keep the air caps? Feedback, please.

 

[RichDesmond]

My opinions are not those of a disinterested observer, but give this a read:

http://sonicsprings.com/catalog/straight_vs_prog_tech_article.php

 

[glib]

My opinions are those of a disinterested but experienced observer. Trust Rich!

 

[Steve]

My opinions are those of a very satisfied user. :encouragement:

No idea how your "rather hefty" compares to my personal gravitational attraction, added to the fact that I have added a frame-mounted fairing, saddlebags and trunk to my 850, but I chose Sonic 1.1 springs and 10w oil and recommend that combination highly.

.

 

[zuluwiz]

And what sort of air pressure would work well for those?

 

[TxGSrider]

And what sort of air pressure would work well for those?

If you get the proper springs you won't need to add any air.

 

[Steve]

Agreed. No extra air needed, very easy to maintain that pressure. :encouragement:

.

 

[sam000lee]

Another happy Sonic Springs customer on my GS750.

 

[RichDesmond]

And what sort of air pressure would work well for those?

Like the other guys said, no air pressure with the better springs. Air ends up being a very progressive spring, and that's a problem. So if you use the right rate in regular spring and no added air you'll get the best balance of comfort and handling.

The stock springs are so soft that adding air with them makes a bad situation a little better, but it's far from optimum.

Let me know if you need help selecting a rate.

 

[Guest]

My opinions are those of a very satisfied user. :encouragement:

+1. I like them enough to have used them on multiple bikes of various brands. They offer top notch service and quality with very reasonable prices.


Mark

 

[Peteortiz11]

Just out of curiosity; how much air, in stock forks, is the right amount?

 

[zuluwiz]

Springs ordered from Sonic.

 

[Steve]

Just out of curiosity; how much air, in stock forks, is the right amount?

That depends on what bike you have, how bad the springs are, how much you weigh and how you ride.

If that is too much to compute, just measure your "sag" and add enough air to bring it to a normal range. Generally 7-14 psi should work.

To measure your "sag", you need to make two measurements and will need a helper. Put the bike on the centerstand, measure from the top of the fork dust cap to the bottom of the triple clamp. Take the bike off the centerstand, load it like you are riding. Wear your gear, assume normal riding position, get as much 'normal' weight as you can on the bike, just barely using your tippy-toes to balance. Have your helper do the same measurement from the dust cap to the triple clamp. The difference should be about 20-25% of available fork travel. Most of our forks have about 6" of travel, so you are looking for a difference of 1 to 1.5".

If you have more than 1.5", add about 5 psi in each fork leg, check the measurement again. Keep adding a couple psi until you have about 1" of sag.

In case you hadn't noticed, it's SO much easier to install proper springs and not have to worry about adding air. :encouragement:

.

 

[Peteortiz11]

Thank GSW for sharing your knowledge and support. I gotta say this is the reason I come to this forum. you guys are knowledgeable, friendly and helpful. Unlike that caf? racer forum where you're insulted, belittled ad down right disrespected. Bunch of losers over there

 

[zuluwiz]

Ok, springs are here, and it's time to assemble. 1.1 Sonic springs, 10w oil (how much oil would be right?)I am assuming it would be the right time to put in new seals. What else do I need to do? As a 300-pounder, should I set the preload high or medium? No fairing or bags.

 

[RichDesmond]

...(how much oil would be right?)...As a 300-pounder, should I set the preload high or medium?...

Follow the instructions and all will be well...

120mm is good for oil level. Do NOT pour in a measured amount. Set the level according to the instructions. Same with the spacer, follow the Note A section to determine the right length. That's what sets your preload.

If the seals aren't leaking I usually leave them alone. Do pry up the dust seals and take a look. It's also a good idea to get some extra fine steel wool and lightly (emphasis on "lightly") buff the tubes. Buffing knocks the sharp edges off the tiny nicks and dings in the tubes that cut up the seals and make them leak.

Let me know if you have any other questions.