Delboy's Garage, Motorcycle Suspension setup.

[@steveservice850]

Just done the set up and works perfect...was very hard ride going over bumps and felt unstable into corners..didn't know why until i found your fantastic channel...the rear sus was at its max hardness and the front was wound down till only 1 full turn left...restored it as you showed to factory settings then went for a spin and WOW what a difference..... Many Many thanks for all your videos.. its gives me confidence to adjust my bike now...by the way it is a mint cbr600 fm.... Many thanks again and keep up the good work it is much appreciated...

[@MrG00ny65]

You are so right about factory settings. My old Blade was on factory settings, handled fine, my new CB1000R , for some reason , came out the shop on soft settings. Set it back to factory - handles much better. Also if you do want to adjust your suspension adjust one setting at a time so you don`t get lost or confused and it`s easy to put back if you are not happy. Then move on to the next one. This way you will also get a feel for how each setting affects the bike. Great vids Del. I`m working my way through all of them. Getting to be a Delaholic! lol

[@Moonfleet41]

Goonster Thanks mate... new bike in the stable myself this week... and looking at your bike, think you might like what we've bought! ...Thanks for the support buddy

[@MrG00ny65]

Moonfleet41 New bike eh? I`m intrigued. Can`t wait to see what you`ve bought.

[@nickbandit1200]

Thanks mate

[@darkknight17]

After over ten years of riding sports bike I finally paid to have my R1 set up, because the previous owner didn't know what he was doing and had turned it into a pogo stick. Best £90 I ever spent. I also bought a professional book on suspension tuning. I'm absolutely stunned at how good the bike handles and regret not customising suspension on previous bikes to my body weight and riding ability. I even used to has the same settings for road and track. What an idiot I was in hindsight! Custom settings are so much better than factory settings. In fact there should be seperate road and track settings, seperate settings for pillion and non pillion, and a rider should know how to change his settings for the rain too. My suspension settings have transformed the bike into a faster, safer, more agile carving machine.

[@Moonfleet41]

Totally agree all the way mate, the factory can't know the body weight of every rider, they give you a wide range of adjustment, so why not make the most of it aye?!

[@dddon513]

I wonder if Dave Moss has seen this vid. A lot of what's being said is in direct opposition to what he's been teaching for years. He says bikes right off the showroom floor are very often way off on suspension setup. He also says preload has nothing to do with stiffness, only travel and ride height.

[@patsonabike]

A very slight correction. Adding preload does not make the spring stiffer, the spring rate will always remain the same. It is just that increasing the preload increases the force needed to begin to compress the fork or shock. Sorry if it's a bit pedantic but I have been reading up a lot of theory on suspension lately to learn more about how everything on a motorcycle works. Maybe someone will offer me a motorcycle mechanic apprenticeship at some point in my life. Best wishes to you and Penny. :) Stay warm!

[@joemilich]

I am just binge watching all your videos

[@Moonfleet41]

Thank you for your support, enjoy!

[@Moonfleet41]

Dont you just love old bikes lol... what a lot of work, how ever did we cope before we had knobs to twiddle....thanks for watching Bill..

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi David...OMG, what a smashing compliment, i cant think what to say back to that, im truly amazed..i would love nothing more than to be able to develop what i love to do into a career, but you hit the nail on the head when you said "showcased your vids to the right people"..Id have no idea where to even start, i'm not a TV person, or involved in the acting and presenting industry, and most that are, have media studies degrees behind them...me...im just a mechanic..lol..thanks so much again Del

[@caerleon9176]

The correct tyre pressures are the most important first step in suspension setups. I purchased a bike from a dealer after passing my test, all the delivery checks done 1st bend at 30mph nearly planted it in a hedge - TP's were WAY off what they should have been. Good vids Del keep em going

[@Moonfleet41]

Why do we hear that so often aye...how hard can it be to stick a guage on the valve to check... thanks for wathicng buddy, take care. Del.

[@TheBazza2556]

good comments mate, Ive just managed, between work shifts and cold weather conditions, to change my bars for Renthals, lots better, I followed your vid about changing bars to the letter, easy peasy, they look great and feel better, I also used your tip re the bar ends and the "modifacation" from B&Q, lol, thanx again mate, safe riding, regards

[@mattdarbro4830]

Great video Del - after doing a Hayabusa front and rear fork and spring swap on my Bandit, a suspension "tune" was in order. You are absolutely spot-on mate advising factory default as a baseline. With the initial settings in place it's fairly easy to dial in your daily driver needs, even on a hybrid bike like mine. Be advised though some bikes are adjusted by "clicks" and some reference a complete turn cw/ccw as one measurement of adjustment ;)

[@Moonfleet41]

Thanks Matt, appreciate that input, wise words well said... and it sounds like a cool hybrid you got there!

[@miket939]

2019 September 6th … just watched this video few days ago, and wow it all came back to me, been so long I really just simply forgot 'how to' suspension settings, went to garage then copy what you said regards manufacture settings (Hayabusa K7) any yup front pre load was almost all the way down around 3 clicks from bottom, then adjusted to 50% ride on it, then 1 more click up (softer) and now its more sure footed and the road is far smoother much more comfy ~ big thank you for these awesome videos!

[@Moonfleet41]

Well done Bazza, it always makes me glad to hear that someone has actually used one of the videos to improve their bike or learn something new....we post them up for exactly that reason... You can see how much better the Renthals are aye?, and with the OE bar weights you dont get the classic Renthal buzz that comes when you have no end damping... good going chap, keep it real and ride safe.. Del.

[@Moonfleet41]

Me too Dan, had loads of the usual curiosity interest and zillions of watchers....but no sale...oh well, we'll be moving in about 4 weeks so once we're in the new house and get the garage setup ill make a place for it in the garden all safe...ill use it at some point.. thanks for watching buddy.. Del.

[@grahamwagner1880]

Been watching these videos for a while to help me work on my 883... till the middle of this video when I laughed my @ss off when I decided to go into the garage and "have a twiddle"... Thanks from Canada Del!

[@Moonfleet41]

Good thinking mate, so few people buy a new bike and actually bother to check that its riding at its best....good liuck with it mate, with the Hagon stuff, ill be interested to hear how it goes... take care, Cheers, Del.

[@barnesnet]

Lovely job, something not many people would consider doing due to the unknown. I am definitely going to be checking mine now as I'm sure the front per-loads are not in a factory position.

[@Moonfleet41]

yeah we film them all in 1080p, and they are usually about 2GB...and indeed, the Movie maker system converts them down to about 400MB....i just need to take some time to adjust that so it leaves them a bit bigger...cheers again mate.. Del.

[@Moonfleet41]

true dat mate... it not the tools in you box that will let you down.....its the tool in the saddle..!!

[@jessiedivincenzo5215]

The factory suspension settings for preload are going to be quite a bit different for a 140 lb japanese rider and a 240 lbs US rider. Yeah we are quite a bit bigger than they are. And rebound and compression have to do with how a person rides, how aggressively etc. I think you are missing it huge here with your advice.

[@Moonfleet41]

Not at all Jessie, the simple point made is that the middle setting is the correct place to start for fine tuning to your weight, whether you be 240lbs or 140...

[@grumpynighthawk9323]

Hi Del, great videos mate, always enjoyable watching them, have to disagree with the comment on the busa tho about the suspension, i got a 2014 busa in may there and with the suspension at standard i was bouncing off the seat all the time. Took it to a suspension specialist near where i live, hes completely changed it for road riding especially country roads. it has transformed it to being really sharp and totally planted, when hurling round corners. i recommend anyone with a busa go and get there suspension specially tailored to them it makes a massive difference , also my tyre pressure are 33psi front and back. i thought this was low but with the suspension properly setup. this is correct. so just to say standard suspension doesn`t suit all. All the best keep up the videos.

[@Moonfleet41]

You're right mate, you can fine tune anything, and we're not all the same size, or the same rider... good call buddy, all the best, Del

[@billdlv]

Good video again thanks Del & crew :). I wish the old cb750f had preload adjustments that easy! Just rebuilt the forks on the 82, put progressive springs in to help the old front end out. Adjustment is accomplished by air pressure adj, spring spacer adj, and fork oil viscosity change. Old rear dampeners / springs shot, progressives ordered to replace. Old dampeners had adjustments but are not re-build able.

[@TheLDNBiker]

Amazing, top video mate! Anyone who's afraid of adjusting their suspension needs to watch this and realise 1) factory setting is in the middle, 2) adjust front and rear together. Cheers

[@Moonfleet41]

TheLDNBiker Thanks mate, glad you like it... all the best.. Del.

[@Moonfleet41]

Well it will certainly effect the handling for sure, but as long at the other end is set to the same level, the balance of front-to-back has been retained and its not too bad...its when they are far out of adjustment with each other that the worst effects are felt....cheers mate. Del.

[@myreality7817]

I just adjusted my front forks and it feels much safer now that it's firmer. It was too soft and it didn't feel safe on cornering and braking. Now that I've seen your video I'll have to go back and see if it's at the halfway point. Thanks for the advice.

[@Moonfleet41]

Most welcome buddy, glad it could help..

[@rajindernijjer]

What about if your real heavy or really light?

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi there... no i've not heard of those, we have used the progressive suspension shock in the past, and the Burly ones too...but i guess there is a world of products out there. if you're going for 10", just make sure they will perform ok with a pillion passenger if you intend to carry one, as the PS shocks bottom out with more than a single rider on.. sorry to not be any more help...good luck, Del.

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi mate, the front suspension on your Div'9 is just fine, certainly it can be improved by fitting progressive springs in the legs...but its hardly essential..you can upgrade anything, and chuck money at a bike all you like...but often it makes little difference unless you are particularly feeling it wallow and slam under braking...if its riding ok, and you enjoy the ride it gives..save up your money and upgrade the bike when the time is right, keep the tyre pressures bang on and its a great bike

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi mate, the ols Flip share camera took a dump a few months ago and we had to replace it...the Panasonic we have now is great, films in 1080p, but they take 5 hours to upload with out ridiculous upload speed due to rubbish broadband here...also i use Windows Movie maker to edit them now, and that reduces them for youtube and now i can load a 15 minute video in two hours...but it is a bit lower quality..we'll be sorting it out as time goes on and we get used to the new equipment..cheers mate Del.

[@AimlessMoto]

I agree with most of what you've got going on here... other than the fact that a rider can greatly benefit from ensuring spring rates match their weight + cargo. The Busa and other big bikes can be tuned for someone between 180 and 220 lbs... any lighter or heavier and you'll need to change your springs.

[@Moonfleet41]

Not that important mate, and NOBODY would ever bother swapping springs on a road bike, most road machines have a range or abililty like you said "180 to 220".. and the Busa handbook recommends the same spring preload for single rider, and 'Rider and Pillion' alike... and that's because, as a tourer it has a much wider range of ability than a more focussed, smaller sports bike like a Gixer 1000 or ZX10..! you weould only upgrade the back spring if you were seriously heavy like 300+ and fully loaded with kit..!

[@AimlessMoto]

I'm 245, had to do the springs on my GS500. Mainly because that bike was built to a price point... and for 150lb vietnamese men. I'd rather have the ability to carry 500lbs (me plus pilion, plus gear) and not be maxed out, and set the spring to near zero preload for solo riding. But that's just me.

[@Moonfleet41]

AimlessMoto Ah, you have a point there... 17 stone plus is a big lad for a GS500, they are a dinky little thing for a bloke your size... so good plan with the spring.... have you thought about getting a beefier bike for the loaded trips..?

[@fiatpandaman999]

Another great vid, Have subscribed and watched many of your vids this last week. Its nice to see some one speak sense.

[@andersonzhu2218]

thanks mate! i wanted that slammed look but wasnt sure how low i wanted. i just recently bought the 2011 sporty 48 and i measure the shock they have now and its about 29.5cm and sometimes when i put feet down im on my tippy toes. so i too just ordered the le pera bare bones so im gonna see how i am with that then decide with the shocks.

[@keefer3335]

Hi Del, watched with interest your Legend project, I have a Thunderbird 900. Just looked at this video to see if there were any tips on how to test/ check my rear shock. Mine is 24 years old now, no signs of any leaks but how do I check its condition/ performance? You changed the shock on your Legend. Cheers. Keith.

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi Keith, You can take it as read that the oil in your shock, after 24 years, isn't much good for anything, so while it may not leak, it's not going to be performing at it's best by any means is it?. we change the oil in our forks as a matter of routine servicing, but it's impossible to do the rear.. I change the shocks on pretty much every project bike because consistently it always improves them massively.. If you can afford it mate, you won't regret it.!

[@keefer3335]

Cheers Del, Id pretty much made up my mind to do it anyway. What youve said makes perfect sense, but really just want to find out/test to see if it was ker nackered. Cheers Del, keep up the good work.

[@R3RLEE]

Hi Del, great advise as always but can you clear a few points please? I have now got rid of the rocket and bought a gen 2 busa... oh how lv missed the busa!! Lol I watched a vid on here before l came across yours and there was a guy saying click all the way to the right then 3 clicks back! Any reason for this? Also the screws on mine are not the same so does that mean one is set different than other? I am going to do as you say but with only just having the bike lm not sure where they are set. And yes lm going to read the book ltr but would love your advise on this. Many thanks ....lee

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi there Lee, all I've covered in this video is basically how to set mandatory sag and factory settings, not how to set the bike up specifically for you... if your bike has been twiddled with and set for another rider, then it's a great way to return back to default settings, and the book you were given with the bike is the best resource to find those factory settings... but look, here's a thing, I don't know who you are Lee, or what weight you are, you could be 9 stone, you could be 29 stone, and in either case, it will be a totally different set up for your bike, and a Gen2 benefits greatly from being set up specifically for it's rider, so what about having a look in to one of these race tech companies that set up your suspension professionally specifically for you? I've heard many riders say it transforms their bike and makes it a joy to ride, and once you record and note down the settings, you'll always know them for the future, if ever it gets messed up or re-adjusted by someone else... it's good advice and you won't regret it, even though it does costs a few quid!

[@R3RLEE]

Thanks for the info I'll have a look and take your advice and see what l can do and see what its set on now. Cheers

[@navythomas8]

Hey if you ever get more time, I would like you to explain the Dampener on a rear shock. I've played and played with that and I don't really see a difference, in any of the total stop settings. Maybe that was why that shock crapped out.

[@npr1300A8]

Excellent video! The mind can play strange tricks! How many times after a service at the dealers have we thought, "this is riding so much better now" when all you've had done is an oil change! Lol. Really enjoy your presentation.

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi Paul, yeah, usually cos they have oiled and adjusted the chain, which makes the gear chain smoother!

[@npr1300A8]

Except when you have a shaft drive lol!

[@Blahde]

Great advice Del, first thing I did when I got the CBR was put it back to stock and left it! Haven't touched it since.. except for 2 up! I'll take your word on the Spring has arrived thing though ;-)

[@varmintmaster]

What's your views on those specialist suspension timing videos, got myself in a jock adjusting preload/damping and rebound on a z900rs trying to get that 30 to 40mm sag they rave on about. . I'm a heavier bloke

[@gregfire5]

Another good vid. Forgot to ask in last comment where did you get your busa bar risers as im after some but can only find the full yoke shaped ones around £140ish. Cheers

[@Moonfleet41]

I like to get to the point in the end...lol.. so many videos are too brief..and so many are too in depth...its hard to get the balance right... also its not always bang in the middle...it was important to make it clear to follow the book if you have one..the Hayabusa settings are off two clicks to the harder side...and yeah, it rides perfect there. even two up. thanks for your support buddy, ride safe.. Del.

[@Moonfleet41]

Why thankyou kindly sir...you are most kind.

[@Moonfleet41]

indeed...most retro and commuter stye bikes suffer from chronic 'sticktion' on the front end and as you say, worn out shocks on the rear...all you can do is set it all up properly balanced and thats the best you'll get...cant polish a turd aye..!

[@danielpotter8957]

I get some handlebar wobble on my zzr1400 when i add a top box. Been told the back end needs stiffening up. True?

[@Moonfleet41]

Good luck with your shocks, mate, hope they work out just great ...Hagon have a awesome heritage and should serve you perfectly ...take it easy, ride safe and thanks for watching, Del

[@StanWilhite]

Enjoy your videos! I'm 61 yrs old and have ridden since I was 5 but have never had this problem. I now have an 04 Suzuki VS 1400 Intruder (only 6K miles) that has handle bar shakes when you let go of them going down the road. Tire pressure is correct...any ideas?Thank you! Stan in N AL USA

[@Moonfleet41]

+Stan Wilhite Hey Stan, thanks for your message... ok, so the bike is shaking its head under hands-free deceleration..?, did the bike do this before, or is it a new thing?, and have you just had the tires fitted?.... you can check they are seated properly (specially the front), take a close look at the bead around the rim to make sure its all exposed evenly....you said the tire pressure is correct, double check the recomended pressure, a big old monsters like that needs the right pressure...and maybe try adding a couple of PSI over that pressure to see if it elliminates it?... check your headstock bearings, (get the wheel off the ground supported, then crouching in front facing the bike, grab both fork legs by the wheel axle, twist the head side to side full sweep and see if there is any notchy feel, or anything causing it to resist a smooth lock to lock sweep)... finally check your rear wheel, i know it sounds odd, but if something's off at the back it can effect the front, make sure both shocks are ok and set to the same preload..... Have a look through those things Stan, l]and let me know what you find sir... good luck.. Del.

[@StanWilhite]

+Moonfleet41 Thanks for your reply! I've been riding since I was 5 but just bought this bike about 5 mos ago. The previous owner had the tires replaced. Tire pressure is correct per manual, but I will try increasing it if the other cks don't correct the problem. Will get back to you....thanks again! Stan

[@foetaltreborus2017]

The "booklet" ..one came with my 883 but it,s mainly about the XR1200, pics are "ALL" about the that ! My forks are bottoming on the crap Bristol roads , but as u say there is,nt the shown adjusters on my 883 !..so whats the next move guys

[@therealmrcheese]

Sounds like they need rebuild or try thicker oil in them for now

[@Moonfleet41]

Yes...on a word. lifting the back stands the forks more upright at the front "increasing the rake angle" and the bike will be less stable but better at dropping into corners...you'll be trading off straight line stability for increased flickableness...and conversely, dropping the back does the opposite..it will corner more sluggishly, but be more stable in a straight line....with retro/commuter/muscle bikes the geometry is set to be general and 'OK' in all usage. better to leave it alone.!

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi mate, at the moment we are right up against it with time constraints and to make a video on this would have to take a back seat till we can get near it..but if you think about it, the idea is just the same, all the same rules apply, there is nothing different in setting up a Harley suspension than setting up a sports bike, certainly as far as the sag, preload and damping..also, Harley's often don't have any adjustment other than rear preload, if you have a particular problem then let me know

[@BedfordshireBiker]

I have Hagon Set up all round on my bandit, I read a book somewhere saying how to set up the suspension properly for the riders weight and how you want to ride, i think it was something like measuring the difference of no load and fully loaded and adjusting your suspension to a certain measurement. Just got the bike and never set suspension before, and considering mine is non standard and I want it set up for best performance over comfort, will let you know how it goes.

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi mate, a good way to go might be to buy the 1" lowering blocks as they are a tenth of the price of the PS 11's and you still retain the factory shock smoothness & if the bike is then too low you've only wasted the price of a few beers! ...With the e-mail address it's easier if you PM me through the Channel as our e-mail address gets bunged up with 50-70 emails a day on KZbin requests! and it's easier to spot them if they come through the Channel otherwise it might get missed! Cheers, Del

[@ngvlogs5555]

Helo sir ..my 2017 busa top rebound screw is clicking only 6 n half times anti-clockwise after six an half clicks clockwise...

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi NG, my Busa was 2003, much older than yours, so not sure of the new set up for your bike... as long as you check the full range of adjustment, however many clicks that is, you can set it within that range... btw, love your videos NG, what a beautiful country you live in, but some of your roads must be a real challenge to ride on! Ride safe my friend, Del

[@ngvlogs5555]

@@Moonfleet41 😎thanx alot sir 👍

[@ngvlogs5555]

@@Moonfleet41 india 🇮🇳 is always a beautiful place and lovely people u get on the way to travel around .

[@ngvlogs5555]

Sir can u share your email id as i want to show u a picture and ask About it

[@Moonfleet41]

@@ngvlogs5555 Hi NG, yes, that's fine... email is: [e-mail]

[@123JumpingJacks]

bought my hayabusa used and have no owners manual. its a 2007 limited edition blue. any idea where I can get the owners manual used without paying so damn much for it.

[@delboydereuck6031]

Do you mean the Owner's Handbook which is the little book containing the service record? Or a proper Workshop Manual?... if it's a manual, then a Haynes isn't as bad as they make out, but if it's the service log and handbook, then that's harder... I didn't think they were that much new from the dealer, would have thought about a tenner... let me know which one you're chasing and I'll try and come up with a solution for you!

[@123JumpingJacks]

I have the workshop manual. Need the service record handbook.

[@Moonfleet41]

Delboy de Reuck Ok, that cant be too expensive to buy, im sure the dealer will have them available...but if not, or they are silly money, then why not contact DVLA, i believe you can still trace all the previous owners of the bike, and contact them to ask if they have it in a draw or something, people to tend to tuck them away safe and forget to pass them on with the bike....you never know..! other than that mate, i think you'll struggle, they go with the bike from new, and a second hand one would be irrelevant as its not for your bike obviously....how much does the dealer quote you for one..?

[@JC-in5fl]

Dave Moss Tuning

[@Moonfleet41]

hi mate...i found the same issue, those flat slabs that follow the top yoke are way too pricey...i found mine form a company in California, just went on eBay international and searched till i found them.....but TBH, now ive seen them, you could get any engineering shop to turn them up, just use some 1" alloy bar, part them off at 1" long, and drill a 10mm hole down the centre, and buy some longer bolts, wouldnt cost you £15 tops... good luck mate, hope that helps.. Del.

[@Moonfleet41]

Playtime soon....he he.. thanks for wathcing Milo, i know how busy you are buddy... cheers, Del.

[@websolutions6117]

Hi Delboy. I'm really stuck. I know this probably seems like a basic question but I've never done this and don't want to damage my engine because it's my commuter bike. I need to check the front steering bearings, which I've been told requires me to lift the motorcycle by something other than the suspension. I assume that a scissor jack on the frame would be best but I have a sport bike and the frame only has one cross member near the rear wheel and probably will only lift the rear wheel if I lift the bike by the frame. I know there are swingarm pivot stands but they're really expensive. So I guess my question is can I lift the bike by the engine with a scissor jack (and a wood block or something) or is there some other way to do it? Or would lifting by the engine damage the engine? My service manual says to use a scissor jack but doesn't demonstrate where to apply it (engine, frame?). I know you have a hayabusa, which has a frame with only one cross member at the bottom too. How do you lift your hayabusa to check the front suspension bearings? I watched your video on the red Kawasaki demonstrating how to change steering bearings but you didn't demonstrate how to raise the bike up. Again, I know this is a basic question, but I'm really stuck. Surprisingly, there's no info on the internet about this. Thanks!

[@TedSwerve]

Nice Vid Del and to the point. I rarely fiddle with suspension setups apart from checking damping and rebound. The problems I've found on modern bikes are more likely to be lack of grease on the pivots or lack of oil in the units. (easier to check with twin shock setups...)

[@SB-Kiwi]

Thanks for the upload. However is it not true that setting sag (not static) would depend on the individual weight of the rider? Just curious on your thoughts. Cheers.

[@Moonfleet41]

No, sag is set irrelevant of rider

[@SB-Kiwi]

Cheers

[@DukeDyson]

Wise words as ever me ol' china. Spring is indeed here, chai and a blatt here we come

[@slavenleko]

Please help. I have Kawasaki Ninja zx636r 2004 year. I notice that my bike is too soft and that it is very low. The owner before me has so set the suspension because it is low. How to Raise rear end on motorcycle? All parts are original and nothing is changed. Thanks in advance

[@andersonzhu2218]

hey mate have you heard of licks 2g 10" short shocks? just wanted to know if you have had any experience or opinion on them, i want to put them on my 48 but not sure yet. cheers.

[@james1466]

Hi del could do with some help , av got cbf 600 05 it's had new headberings , wheel bearings , new tyers pilots roads 4 , and fork seals fitted , When out riding I find it fells like bouncy at speed or juddering when going over uneven roads can trace the problem but it's driving me nuts , Q is have you ever experienced this

[@Moonfleet41]

James Percy ok mate, "bouncy" is too little damping...and "juddering" is too much...it can suffer from both, its not as daft as it sounds.. you could have too much compression damping making it hard over bumps....but too little rebound damping allowing it to bounce upwards... Take both "damping and rebound" adjusters and set them to the middle of thier range of adjustment.. (wind to one end, count all the clicks to the other end, then come back halfway)... this will set your damping all back to factory stock.. The set your tyres to the correct PSI.(in your handbook), and set your chain tension correctly too... and then take the bike for a ride, see how it feels and let me know mate... ok?, keep me posted.. Del.

[@james1466]

+Moonfleet41 ok set the back shock to no 3 factory settings, there is no adjustment to the front - it's got the good old bog standard forks , tyers are at 36 front 42back . When out riding to night it's like the forks are making a sound when braking , and I do have that bounce when there's bump in the road - putting me of riding big time , it rides in a strate line with hands off the bars and there's no vibes on the bars if that info helps ,

[@james1466]

+James Percy what about fork oil ? If too little,

[@Moonfleet41]

James Percy Hi James, good thinking, if the fork oil has not been changed in the last 2yrs it wouldn't hurt to empty it out and re-fill with a decent 10W oil to freshen it up.... this bouncing you talk about could be characteristic on cheaper, basic forks, but it's unlikely.... fork oil change is part of major servicing, it usually gets missed, so could possibly not have been done for many years!,,,,

[@maverickvlogs1758]

Uncle Del My R1 Loves to tank slap me. SHOCK! Since I have my new Dunlop Sportsmarts on.. Front tire is at 36 and rear is at 34. Ill try it at 38. Soon as I jump on the power and load the rear. Or maybe I just need to get a steering damper. Thanks for the Videos

[@Moonfleet41]

+Heinrich Venter Hi Heinrich, 34 or even 38 is way too low for the year, a hard core sports bike like your R1 should be running 36/42....try 40 and see if you like it, but if it was mine, id definitley be running 42 in the rear... let me know how it goes.. Del .

[@maverickvlogs1758]

Thanks uncle Del. I sure will give it a go. Cant wait for spring. Are you quite handy with suspension setup. I know you mentioned factory settings as the best. but i only weigh 72kg 11.33 stone.. So i guess my sag on my bike will be or could be wrong

[@Moonfleet41]

+Heinrich Venter Hello again Heinrich... no the sag is set on the bike with no rider, that is a basic 'defualt' factory setting, it is designed to allow the suspension to have as much flexibility "up, as down" and not favour hard or soft.... it is after then that you make the adjustments for your weight and riging style... im not by any means an expert, but if i was setting up an R1 for myself, (and im 80kg) i would go factory settings, and maybe a tiny bit less preload in the rear...! hope that helps buddy.. good luck. Del.

[@MrMedicusNeo]

i tried this supension front setting (rebound side) on a suzuki gsxr 2001. i can not hear any "clicks" and on the left side are more turns. WTF :( how to setup this?

[@Moonfleet41]

+MrMedicusNeo Dunno buddy, check your manual... most suspension damping settings have 'clicks' to balance both sides... perhaps count 'turns' from one end to the other and do it that way??

[@MrMedicusNeo]

+Moonfleet41 i've found the stock settings but there is one "problem". when i turn it clockwise (rebound, front) to hard it does not "stop" properly like on the rear side. it becomes more and more harder - how hard to "close" it??

[@Moonfleet41]

+MrMedicusNeo It could have a blockage inside the mechanism, the valves inside allow the oil through to slow down the movement... that screw opens and closes those holes, if they become blocked of fowled up with debris...they will be hard to opperate... if it was my bike, i woud just strip them and clean and flush out all the old oil... and refill with new oil.. then see if that cures it..!

[@MrMedicusNeo]

+Moonfleet41 thank you for your advice :)

[@andersonzhu2218]

no worries thanks any way. yeah i have thought about getting the PS 11" too just not very sure about it. do you have an email that i can write to about my sporty? no worries if you don't

[@rh_8599]

Suspension is one of the most important aspects of the bike and not enough people know even the basics about suspension adjustment and they really should, most of the bikes I get in for mot I can tell the suspension and tyre pressures are way off just by looking at it before I even touch the bike, you should have your bike set up for you and for what your using the bike for and also get the suspension serviced you would leave your engine oil in there for 10 years so why do people seem to think it ok to do it with fork oil? Great vid as always del, David moss on KZbin is very good at explaining general bike suspension set up

[@Moonfleet41]

This was just a simple insight in to getting your bike back to factory settings, many people believe that once they twiddle with the buttons and screws, they can mess it all up forever and don't realise how simple it is to get back to factory settings, which is a 'middle of everything' setting, and makes the bike safe to ride... this can allow them the confidence to get busy and involved and actually try and improve the way their bike handles. Not everyone can afford 'professionals' to set things up for them, and not all people are stupid, they just need to understand the simple princple and from there, most people can work it out... I believe in placing faith in people's ability, far too many 'mechanics' and 'technicians' look down on bike owners with contempt, and I believe that this is a contemptuous act in itself, I've learned from long experience my friend, that all people need is a clear explanation, and they can do the rest.

[@rh_8599]

+Moonfleet41 I couldn't agree more del, I have learnt for myself over the years like you. my friend went to a suspension "specialist" and spent £60! just on a basic set up that he could of done himself or just asked for some help. Have a great wkend mate the weathers crap here in wales atm

[@Moonfleet41]

Life's bitch, eh? Dunno what's happened to this weather...bright sunshine yesterday and clouded over and grey this morning, will it ever be sunny and warm again LOL!

[@gloverj6475]

On my Gsxr there are two screws on each fork do you screw compression the same as the tension

[@Moonfleet41]

+jimmy g Hi Jimmy, you don't say what year your GSXR is and they changed throughout the years... are both screws on top of the fork leg??

[@rs2klee]

hi Del, great video :) on my Yamaha 900 diversion it is recommended to upgrade the standard suspension (front) to progressive.. could you explain a little on that when you get time. my bikes all setup to standard settings from the factory so i take it sometimes its not as good when there are upgrades. Unless the factory suspension on this bike wasn't good enough in the 1st place ?

[@Dulema]

Hey Del. I do everything myself to my bikes. I ride a 2011 ninja ZX10R. I understand how to change fork seals on regular forks like your vid explained but most forks for supersports are now Showa BP forks. For the life of me, i cannot find a video to explain the dismantling and rebuilding of the bp forks. Do you have any knowledge to share to aid me or a link to a video that can help? Thanks

[@Razzle_Dazzle718]

Hey amazing video as allways . Question could you possibly speak on suspension front and back on a harley especially sportster spring not air . I looked alot on youtube and there seems to be non usually 99% of videos are about sport bike suspension. Please if you could help i would apriciate it

[@donaldshires5876]

Hey Bud, I've watched all your videos on the Busa and I have learned ALOT, thank you for all your knowledge. I have a 2007 Busa and I recently noticed the rear shock is leaking a bit. Are these shocks serviceable ? I would like to have your input on this. Again thanks for the videos. Cheers .

[@KrazerRacer]

will raising or lowering the rear suspension make much difference to handling?

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi mate, many moons ago before I was on YT I had a How To page on a biker forum and did a photo build of replacing upside down fork seals... sadly cos I feel out with the guys who own the forum they went & deleted the whole thread, but the principles are much the same... you still have a stantion & a slider, a seal & two bushings,damper rods & springs etc., it just looks a bit different,I don't have a video to link,but I'm certain they're out there if you search 'upside down forks seal replace'

[@Moonfleet41]

Thanks John.

[@Moonfleet41]

Salesman?! What with kipper tie and a cheesy grin?! Maybe not LOL! But thanks for the kind compliment!

[@karackhal]

ty for the advice mate pointed my views toward the latest bandit :D cheaper too... want a brand spanking new one, tired of hand me down motors ... atm i'm riding a honda varadero xl1000v but id like to leave that as a touring bike and have a so called commuters bike for everyday use

[@karackhal]

hey del gread vid as always ... quick question about the z1000 as you said your friend owns one ... i have been planning on buying one for just faffing about on it and there in comes the question ... as I've learned the z is factory set for a 70 kilo person but being a 7ft 1 monster of a human i weigh twice as much, so can it even be set up for me... thought about asking you first and not running into my dealers and making myself look like a complete and utter git. Greetings from finland/estonia

[@Moonfleet41]

Cheers mate....good plan, leave it standard, the CBR is a great all round package...faff about with it and all you do is screw it up..

[@johnmicallef3502]

i like to get in garage alot.. and i seen alot of video on youtube about this... i must say you are almost rigth.. most suzuki´s and honda´s bikes i set for a rider between 70-80kg. ive only had one bike were i had to chagen the front end and that the sv 650."but that was 2nd hand.. most suzuki´s and honda bike are bang on you may need just a little + or - . so good info out the world..!

[@alwynfarmer2112]

A little help needed please from a new rider just passed cbt, when applying brakes on my 125 with little more than what i would call " NORMAL " braking pressure the front suspension is bouncing until i actually come to a stop, a bit worrying for a new rider ! just subscribed these vids are a fantastic help thanks.

[@paulmcclung6994]

Great video Del as they always are. Just wondering though what has happened to the image quality of your vids lately older vids were a nice 720 but newer one are max 420 and all grainy? Anyway cheers for the great vids

[@Moonfleet41]

Hmm, well it was a few viewers on here that wrote to Discovery and they then asked me for some videos to load onto their website for 'Bike How-To's so maybe ill write a letter or two and see what fall out of it.....thanks mate, you never know... take care, Del.

[@Guitargazza1]

I was lucky enough to have my previous bike s suspension set up for me by Dave Moss at a motorcycle expo earlier tis year ( 2016 ) it was chosen at random by Dave himself ( Yamaha mt 09 ) and I must say that after his adjustments the bike was considerably better handling my new bike ( 2008 Suzuki 650 Bandit ) is just as it was when I bought it from the dealer so I will be looking for tips on how to set the suspension in this video I have watched other Del boys vids and find your style of presentation very good for someone like myself who is not particularly mechanically inclined thanks for your posts Moonfleet41

[@Moonfleet41]

Thanks Garry, im glad the videos can help you and make it a bit easier to fettle your bike, Thanks for your kind comments, and good luck with your bike.. Del.

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi Tom, two reasons why you found no real difference buddy, One is the manufacturer gives you a bit of adjustment for effect and BS.in fact the changes to the damping rate that each stop makes is so minimal its hardly worth it, remember they cant go producing a product that a feckless narb can get themselves in trouble with so in some ways its for your safety and their litigatory protection, the other reason is that you (if i may be so bold) dont punish your bike enough to outride the damping.

[@debbiewright2171]

Great vid , very informative 👍 Personally I would avoid riding over the dead badgers !! 😁

[@landellsjhw]

I found the PO of my bandit had wound the rear shock all the way out, the PO said it was to lower it......hmmmm......Think i need to look up the OM setting :) (Weather is looking good for this weekend now :D )

[@JawanBailey]

Hey, thanks for the info, I just bought a used bandit 12 and it seems to dive easier than I feel it should. I'm gonna go out and set it to the middle and see how it goes. Hopefully it's just the settings.

[@Moonfleet41]

Have fun, and good luck with it buddy, congratulations on the new bike.

[@optytrexgmail]

just out of curiosity and knowledge, did you show a Owner's Manual or a Technical Manual? Either way I'd recommend both if anyone's working on their own bike.....

[@yorkshirefazer]

good idea m8. best get the tools out and check mine. always thought it was a bit stiff (oo errr missus!) but never got round to checking it. thank goodness for a long weekend :)

[@Moonfleet41]

I'll have to be honest with you my friend, the Z1000 is gonna be way to small for you.. they are very much like the Honda Hornet in that they are small, having been derived from sports bikes.. at your height, let alone your weight, I would say look at the wonderful ZRX1200, or the Honda CB1300 or maybe even Suzuki's fabulous GSX1400, these are big muscle bikes, but perform beautifully and most importantly, bigger than a Z1000. Have sit on a few & try for size, good luck, Del

[@iamtheemperor1]

Hydraulic damping doesn't have anything to do with sag. An inch and a half of static sag is way too much. Sag is set by preload, which should be set according to the rider's weight. The factory settings are a starting point, but aren't the best settings for the bike. If you weigh 150 pounds, the factory settings are going to feel vastly different to you than they would to someone weighing 215 pounds. Don't set your suspension in the middle. Set it to your weight and riding ability.

[@WillfulThinker]

That should be the top comment.

[@lurker-mq4fp]

Dead badgers are NO joke! I live in Kent and these things are like landmines!

[@Moonfleet41]

Here in Dorset the scariest landmines are dead deer.. a Badger is small fry at about 12kg...of course, it'll still take you off your bike.. but a 200kg Adult Deer will write off an SUV..! and they run across the road in twos.. if you can miss the first one, then you know you'll hit the Buck that was chasing it..:-0

[@lurker-mq4fp]

@@Moonfleet41 I once came face to chop with a sheep that had escaped from a farmer's field and there was a tense stand off for a while until i revved the engine and made it turn around and walk off. It was a stubborn bugger and would dance across the narrow lane preventing me from going past it. This went on until it came across the opening to a country pub where a window full of customers eating sunday lunch saw a biker shepherding in a new course.

[@RoadcraftNottingham]

When I got the Diavel it was awful and solid as a rock. Set to factory, sorted! .....it took you 11 mins to say "set it to the middle" lol ;-)

[@myz06rocks]

Can’t believe how many of these I’m saving. Inspiring information for the at home mechanic. Thank you thank you

[@bedlamnfse]

great, helped a lot dell, think my zzr was set up for an elephant on the rear

[@Moonfleet41]

+Andrew Jones Ha ha, what do people do that, its such a lame way to try and gain handling... just works the opposite... as long as you have the small amount to natural sag under the bike's own weight, and the same compression and rebound settings it'll ride fine..(unless you're an elephant, in which case buy a Harley lol)...

[@bedlamnfse]

Got the bike cheep and a none runner so only just done 20 miles or so, checked the rebound settings (small plastic disc on bottom of rear shock) only to find no bloody markings on it so took you advice and sorted it...your a legend and I continue to tell mates about your chanel :-) peace out and ride safe budy.

[@stoned747]

hi del@penn great vid iam still cheacking your vids and fro are very good allthe best

[@gennaroambrosino8604]

Well said mate cheers i like how you explain things about bikes ,very informative and self explanatory please keep this info coming

[@Moonfleet41]

Cheers Gennaro, I'm glad it can help you mate. Just sharing a few basics with out fellow riders... ride safe, Del

[@Moonfleet41]

Factory setting is in the middle Johm jyust like i said....i seem to remember you had all this wight your last Bandit...its staggers me how many owners thing setting their bike up like a dingbat can make it handle better...TBH mate, its the same old BSR you get all the time on these subjects...set it all in the middle, and it'll ride the best it can...see you at the weekend buddy.. Del.

[@grosbeakmc]

Good tips Del. Nice work behind the scenes Penny! I have tried in vain to find a factory owner's manual for my '99 Bandit 1200 and my Clymer shop manual, while good, does not cover suspension adjustments. I could find factory default on the rear shock easily enough... but if I undo the preload on the front forks too much, will it come apart? If you have any suggestions I'd be happy to hear them. :)

[@Moonfleet41]

Hi John, if you're asking whether the preload adjuster on the top of your forks comes all the way out then NO, it will hit a stop a the highest point and then go no further.. then wind all the way in ans count the turns, (or 'rings' if it has them), and then set it to the mid point.. this will be the best start point for you to fine tune the forks from..! hope that helps buddy.. good luck with it.. Del.

[@grosbeakmc]

Spot on Del, just the info I was looking for. Thank you.

[@grosbeakmc]

BTW If anyone else is looking for this information, the document is at facebook.com/download/preview/1376639192403314. Front suspension settings on page 5-28, rear suspension on page 5-53.