Tuning Your Suspension - Does Manual Recommendations Work for You?

[jjc]

Hi everyone. I (for the first time) have a motorcycle with 3 way adjustable suspension (front and back) as opposed to my other bikes with pre-load only.

I downloaded the Service Manual for my 2006 Lightning XBSs (Long). I set up the front and rear suspension to the recommendations based on my weight (185 lbs) - knowing of course to turn the compression and rebounding settings clockwise all the way to the right and then backing it off counterclockwise the amount noted for me to do.

1) DO MANY OF YOU FIND these settings to satisfy your riding style or did you find it to be less than perfect for you.
2) The service manual does not really indicate if these settings are for typical day to day street riding or more aggressive riding?
3) Lastly would those who are approximately 185 pounds - not wanting track performance but every day quality ride tell me what settings they use on their Lightning Long? Thanks.

 

[konarider94]

read this

http://steveturnbull.co.uk/buell/thexbpages/xbhandling.htm

 

[sewerman]

I am 185 lbs but I have a 12R. When I got the bike new('09) the settings were all over the place right from the factory. I used the manual settings and there was a noticeable difference. I am not real aggressive so they work for me.

 

[jjc]

Thank you both for the feedback - I am going to read that article first chance (at work so my time is limited right now)...

I did the setting on my bike it seemed like the bike ran quicker with that but it seemed to be a bit harder to handle - it may be that I just need to get used to new settings. Thank you both.

Lastly - I was suprised that the settings offered for different weights were relatively close and some of the settings available were not even recommended to be used regardless of your weight.

 

[paulda93]

I just purchased a 2003 xb9s and need to setup the suspension for me. Given that I am 6ft task and weight 230 what settings should i use as a starting point when i dial in the suspension?

 

[jjc]

You are totally in luck [up] Go to the top of the site --- just to the right of forum - you will see service manuals. Somebody has downloaded the service manual for a 2003 XB92 --- Table 1-10 --- and on show not only the settings based on your weight, but how to do it, and then give options based on the typical roads you may be driving on... I tried to cut and paste but no luck ... so ya - just look to that service manual and you are all set.