SUSPENSION
UNDERSTANDING SUSPENSION
DAMPING CONTROL : Shock absorbers play a vital role in controlling damping, both compression and rebound. Proper damping ensures that the motorcycle reacts appropriately to bumps and road irregularities, providing stability and control.
TRACTION & STABILITY: The rear shock absorber significantly influences the motorcycle's traction and stability, especially during acceleration and braking. A well-tuned rear suspension helps maintain contact between the rear tire and the road surface.
RIDE COMFORT: The rear shock absorber contributes significantly to the overall comfort of the ride. It absorbs shocks and vibrations, reducing the impact felt by the rider, especially on uneven surfaces.
DYNAMIC ADJUSTABILITY: Rear shock absorbers often offer a wide range of adjustability, allowing riders to fine-tune compression damping, rebound damping, and preload. This adjustability is crucial for optimizing the suspension to match the rider's weight, riding style, and road conditions.
HANDLING & CORNERING: The rear suspension influences the motorcycle's handling characteristics and cornering behavior. A well-tuned rear shock contributes to a balanced and predictable ride, enhancing the bike's responsiveness in various riding situations.
LOAD CAPACITY: The rear suspension is particularly critical in supporting the weight of the rider, passenger, and any additional cargo. Adjusting preload on the rear shock helps optimize the suspension for different loads.
How Suspension Is Adjusted:
PRELOAD: Adjusting preload changes the initial compression of the suspension. This is crucial for accommodating different rider weights and loads. Most motorcycles have adjustable preload on both front forks and rear shock absorbers.
COMPRESSION DAMPING
Compression damping controls how quickly the suspension compresses in response to an impact. Adjusting compression damping helps fine-tune the bike's response to bumps and dips in the road.
REBOUND DAMPING: Rebound damping affects how quickly the suspension returns to its extended position after compression. Adjusting rebound damping is crucial for maintaining traction and control.
SAG:
Sag is the amount the suspension compresses under the bike's weight. Proper sag adjustments ensure the suspension operates within its optimal range during dynamic riding conditions.
GEOMETRY ADJUSTMENTS:
Some motorcycles allow for adjustments to the fork angle or ride height, affecting the bike's overall handling characteristics.
