Suspension FAQ

[webmaster]

FAQ = Frequently Asked Questions...

I am looking to add a "frequently asked questions" section to the website to save space and time.... I will have it partitioned into categories that correspond to the categories in the forum here - engine, electrical, chassis, etc.

What do you think should be in the Suspension FAQ?

thanks,
jeff

[Eric K]

Jeff,

Start with the standard baseline settings for the various forks and shocks.

Also include tips on fork oil change and servicing.

It would also be good to have a way for members to share their specific suspension settings in tabular format (comp adjustment, rebound adjustment, spring rates, fork oil type/level, free/race sag, rider weight, riding type/style, modifications...). This may be a bit difficult, but it will be way more useful than reading a long string of replies with various bits of information.

[iancp5]

A spring rate table based on the standard would be good. I.e. if the standard is for a 160lb rider what is recommended for 120, 140, 180, 200, 220, 240 etc.

[Dave]

Maybe some links like this one:
http://www.off-road.com/dirtbike/mar...b101shock.html

Suspension fluid properties chart with explanations of what the different values mean.

Shim stacks lists for those that dive in a little deeper.

[MattR]

I suggest putting my recent fork oil level question in the FAQ's. You will need to offer a couple options since the forks could be WP, Ohlins, or Marzocchi.

Question:
What is the recommended oil level in the WP forks?

Answer:
The oil level is typically 130 to 150 mm when measured from the top of the fork outer tube. The forks must be fully collapsed with no spring when setting this oil level.

[webmaster]

Originally Posted by Dave

Maybe some links like this one:
http://www.off-road.com/dirtbike/mar...b101shock.html

Suspension fluid properties chart with explanations of what the different values mean.

Shim stacks lists for those that dive in a little deeper.

Doh! I forgot to put your suspension viscosities chart up! It is in the manuals section now.. I'll clean up the background on the page tonight...

Sorry 'bout that!

jeff

[GMP]

Suspension forums can be real interesting. Its cool to see how people learn and discover how valving works, and some get quite good at it. I'm sure the professional tuners find it interesting as well.

What I'm asking is please do not request or post valve stack specs that were provided by a professional tuner, out of respect for that tuner. This is how the guy makes his living. General info and pointing someone in the right direction is OK but no hard specs please. Thanks.

[Dave]

I'd like to see the stock valve specs for Marzocchi forks. It would be interesting to see what Gas Gas does when they talk about revised settings from year to year.
FWIW, those of us with WP forks can get more information than can used over at ktmtalk.

[GMP]

What I find interesting about the new WP forks on the KTMs is that they went to a 12mm damper rod, like everyone else.

[Dave]

I wonder if linkage is next...

Did you catch that picture of the Kawi with the under engine shock mount? I think that could be made to work offroad if they went to a springless shock.