DVD feedback and question/reply

Dave,

I just got done watching "Twiddling Knobs". It was a great video and helped me understand more than ever about my suspension.

I have one question though. My street bike always pulls double duty as my solo sport bike and our "two up" touring bike. I weigh about 200lbs with full gear. With my wife and top/side cases we are at about 375lbs.

My last two bikes (Kawasaki ZZR1200, Aprillia Futura) both had remote pre-load. But is there enough adjustability in any set up to breach the 175lbs difference?

If so what kind of shock/spring do I get? Or do I just have to buy another street bike? : )

Thanks,

Eric


Hi Eric,

Thanks for the kind words about the DVD's and glad they gave you a much better understanding of suspension.

To get something you always have to give something else up, so in this case, in order to get the chasis and geometry correct when you have the bike loaded, you will have to have a spring/hydraulic set up that is stiff for you when solo riding. Is this a suitable compromise?

The other option is to have a second OEM shock on hand that is simply switched out when you go on long trips. If this in practical terms is not realistic, then you make a decisio that ultimately best suits your safety criteria.

No matter what, you already know what you need to do in order to maintain safety for both of you when the bike is loaded. Please let me know if I can be of further help!

Thanks,

dave