2012 ec300 race initial rear set-up

[jetiv4]

I recently purchased a demo model 2012 ec300 racing from a dealer (my first Gasser). Long story short, I did not set the rear sag before taking out on its maiden voyage to the Ridge in central Alabama. The riding area is designed for all levels of riders and a great day adventure. The ride lasted about five hours before I was so exhausted I had to call it quits. I felt like I was kicked by a mule all day and was sore in the groin area for about a week.

Well, I decided to fix this kicking problem and adjusted the sag this evening. The initial sag was about 137mm which I tuned it to about 101ish. The bike?s suspension was not adjusted by the dealer and came to me with stock settings. I have not done anything to the front or rear clickers. I am not experienced at all when it comes to setting up suspension and curious what the forum contributors think about these numbers. Does 137mm seam ridiculous as a stock setting for a 200lb fully loaded rider? To get the sag down near 100, I believe the shock lowered about 2inches on the shock threads. Also I am curious what I might expect on my next ride after making these adjustments.

I have been researching this suspension thing for hours and reading many articles that state never make extreme adjustments as It can totally change the handling. I thought the bike tracked and cornered great with the initial settings. The only really problem that was noticed by me and my riding buds when they tested it out was the over stiff suspension. Let me know what you think!

[GMP]

I go by preload on the spring, and how the bike feels/steers. Sag number is less important but should be reasonable. 137mm is too much, 100mm is less than I have found optimal. Mine sits at 110 - 115mm. Too much preload gives the bike a harsh ride over the small stuff. Try and stay under 10mm, if you need more to get the bike to steer, move up to a 5.4 spring.

Also, make sure your shock rebound is at least 15 clicks out, any less and it actually adds compression. Run the compression 15 - 20 out for starters.

These are not plush bikes, but they are planted and carve.

[jetiv4]

I appreciate the reply. I know I'll get it dialed in, just getting there is the pain. The bike is truly amazing in the corners and I didn't want to take that out of the bike. I'll see on its next ride.

[GMP]

At 137mm, you should be compromising steering. It should only get better.