by MattBennett23 » Tue Oct 07, 2014 1:45 am
When I redid the suspension on my 250X (as soon as I bought it), I went to a local place. I read around on some local forums and found out who people nearby were using. I felt like it would be better to go with local guys who ride the same stuff I do and know the local terrain and conditions. I'm sure the national suspension shops do great, but they probably set up for their local conditions, or have a regional set up that they blanket use for an area (Cali, midwest, east coast, etc). Another thing to consider is what the shop specializes in. Some places are better at setting up a bike for motocross, while others are better for off road. Some places do both well. Its a good idea to look into this, whether you decide to go national or local.
Another big advantage of going local is the labor. If you want to, you can usually just drop the whole bike off, rather than take the time and hassle to remove the suspension and put it back on when it comes back. Also there are no shipping charges. Also nice if you are having other work done on the bike by them while it is in the shop.
I ended up using a local place here in Michigan (Tech-Care Suspension). They asked me height, weight, riding level, types of riding I normally do, even favorite local trails I ride, etc... While it was there I also had the suspension lowered (since I am 5'6") and had a dual sport kit from Sicass Racing installed.
Bottom line, dropped off my bike, got the proper springs, got it revalved, got it lowered, and got a dual sport kit installed. Went to pick it up and they had me sit on it and set the sag for me and made sure I was comfy and pleased with the work. You cant get that sending your suspension components off somewhere... I've never had a better suspended bike, more custom fit to me. I was instantly comfy on the bike, and have never ridden one that works better for my local conditions. They set it up perfectly. I didn't even feel the need to change a clicker when I got it back. Couldn't be happier. Another advantage is if I needed to speak with someone about the work, had setup questions, or even just needed a few new stickers when I got a new front fender, they are right there locally.
The way I see it, local guys will be able to set you up better for local conditions. Any suspension shop should be full of guys that ride, and they will be riding the same trails as you and will know the best way to set it up. Just my 2 cents... Plus I like to try to keep my money local when I can.
P.S. At 6'2" why are you lowering the bike?? I lowered mine 2" because I am short (5'6" with a 27" inseam). I think you would feel very cramped lowering the bike at all. These bikes are designed for an "average" rider (about 5'10" and 160-180 lbs). Lowering the bike at all with your size I think might be a mistake. Most taller riders try lowered pegs, taller bars, and possibly bar risers. I think lowering the bike is heading in the wrong direction for you.
BUT, bike set up is a personal thing, and you may have your reasons. If you do want to do it, I would talk to the suspension shop you use about lowering the bike with the suspension rather than the lowering link. It may cost more, but I think youd be happier in the end. This is the route I took, and I couldnt be happier. Bike is well balanced front to back now and being able to solidly plant a foot when needed makes me much more comfortable on the bike. Every person my height who has ridden it, has asked me where I got it done because they wanted to do the same thing. Only downside is that you lose a little ground clearance but I have never found this to be an issue.