[Codeman00]

For those of you that know the ins and outs of suspension, I would like to learn. I keep reading and reading on the topic and I'm not getting anywhere with it.

I'm pretty sure that I'm too heavy for my stock setup. RachTech says I am by about 12 lbs. I'd like to measure my sag to make sure but I need one of the solo sag measuring sticks to do so..and they are about $75 shipped. Either that, or I could go bug the neighbor which I don't want to do. A spanner wrench is about $16 more. So if I spend that money, it looks like a time consuming process of lifting the subframe, making adjustments and remeasuring. It just seems like its not worth the $$ for the tools and the effort required to do it myself especially for a one time setup. (although I still want to learn)

Is it worth it or is there someone I can go to to get my suspension set up for me for a decent price? How much does a suspension set up usually cost and what is involved?

[Skoot22]

12lbs is not too far off. Definately not enough to spend $200 for springs. I would set your sag with a regular tape measure. Bug the neighbor, who cares, give him a beer. Anyone can hold a tape measure.

A revalve is going to be in the neighborhood of $300 front and rear.

I would set your sag, and play with the clickers.

[beau]

It sounds like you are on the right track with your thought process.

As mentioned above, anyone can hold a tape, so grab whoever.
Don't worry about the spanner, wear your Mechanix gloves and turn the spring by hand (when the bike is on the work stand)

When you get that magic 100mm of race sag dialed in, measure the free sag and THEN make a decision about a new spring.

--

Who sets up suspension for cheap? I don't know, but try taking your bike to a race. I always see suspensions guru's at all the roadraces, and $20 or $30 should get your Sag set properly.

Good luck with this, the best part is, there is nothing to break or screw up!

[woodsman]

Also, While the Spanner wrench is a tool that belongs in a dirtbikers garage, it is not crucial in adjusting preload.

Once the bike is on a stand, you should be able to turn the spring by hand.

Two bits of advice, make sure the threads are clean and wear your Mechanix gloves.

Sounds like the thing must have bit you!

I used a screw driver and a hammer and I have the spanner wrench I found it to be much more useful and much less hassle.

[beau]

Sounds like the thing must have bit you!

I used a screw driver and a hammer and I have the spanner wrench I found it to be much more useful and much less hassle.

HAHA! I am so over all the nic's and scratches on my hands.
I used to use the hammer/screwdriver method on Preload Adjusters and while turning the nut on the steering stem. But I started to hate the little marks the scredrivers was leaving!!

(I also own the Spanner, I think it way to cumbersome to use on the rear shock)

[Codeman00]

I appreciate the advice, guys...

I understand now that I don't need a spanner wrench; however, do I still need to remove the 3 screws and lift the subframe up? Or can this be done just with the bike lifted up in the air on a stand without removing the subframe screws, etc?

[124]

I appreciate the advice, guys...

I understand now that I don't need a spanner wrench; however, do I still need to remove the 3 screws and lift the subframe up? Or can this be done just with the bike lifted up in the air on a stand without removing the subframe screws, etc?

You can use a hammer and a long brass drift to loosen the collars. Take the mudflap off and spin the spring with your hand as Beau said. You do not need to remove anything (besides the mudflap )...good luck.

[Codeman00]

I used a screwdriver for the job. It was much easier than I thought it would be. I had a free sag of 122 mm starting out (target of 100)...so it was way off! I moved the preload nut on the shock about an inch it seems..now i'm at 99mm race sag and 30mm free sag. It's set up perfect now.

Thanks for the help guys!