FZ09 Forks Suspension Upgrade DIY Guide

FZ09 Forks Suspension Upgrade DIY Guide - This is a comprehensive how-to guide for upgrading your forks with a complete revalve kit, installing new springs and oil and everything else via a kit from Stoltecmoto.com with a test and results at the end. It is very in-depth covering everything from the first bolt to the last. If you want to just use it for form removal and installation to take the kit to your dealer or suspension shop, that's also an option. Listed below are the parts I used and suggested tools if you need them. Stoltec gives a more comprehensive suggested tool list with the kit instructions as well. Each kit is custom made to your specifications but the install and setup is exactly as you see here. Stoltec suggests this is a 90 minute job however that is a shop spec, if someone brings you the forks and kit. For the average first time DIYer I would suggest blocking out 4 hours including part cool down times. You can get a great deal on your suspension parts at StoltecMoto.com - tell um TWO sent ya (I don't get anything)!
Stoltec 2017+ FZ09 Upgrade kit: www.stoltecmoto.com/shop/yamah...
Traxxion Tool Kit: www.traxxion.com/Fork-Service-...
Race Tech Suspension Bible Book: amzn.to/2hlWUpB
Race Tech single person spring compressor: amzn.to/2gLlZcE
Spools: amzn.to/2zrXdG3
Basic rear stand: amzn.to/2xWSn2j
Basic headstock lift: amzn.to/2ijzYa6
Basic front + rear combo: amzn.to/2ik5e8Y
Intermediate Triple Tree Stand combo: amzn.to/2yBlvQW
Pit Bull Rear Stand: amzn.to/2yBmlNA
Pit Bull Front Stand: amzn.to/2zDQGZP
Soft Vice Jaws: amzn.to/2zicdu3
Motion Pro Cartridge Holder (Need to make 22mm deepwell socket extension): amzn.to/2ieJwU2
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[@darfff2978]

Almost 4 years later and you're still helping out the 09 community, thanks for all the great videos!

[@stevensullivan8368]

As a longtime motorcycle tech, on all brands for over 40 years, the preferred method to put forks on and get the proper alignment is to install the wheel and axle first while having the lower and upper triple clamps snug enough to keep them from pushing or falling out. Loosen the steering stem nut sufficiently to allow it to self align, do not induce a gap on the stem bearings, you still need some bearing preload. Also recommend putting the axle/wheel/calipers on, giving them a few squeezes to seat the pads and rotors. then unload the spring tension so you may collapse the front fork to get the shortest distance and maximum compression without bottoming out. Put a ziptie on the front brakes lever to keep pressure on the rotor/axle assembly. Then tighten from the bottom up, axle then lower clamp, then upper clamp, finally the steering stem. Rinstall the springs. Works perfectly every time. I used to straighten frames with a rack and laser pins. this works 99% of the time to get proper setup given that the bike wasn't damaged in a crash. Well done info on the cartridge's!!!

[@MikeBeeman]

That is the best Fz 09 suspension video on KZbin by far. Great job.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Thanks!

[@Oldschool503]

@@TwoWheelObsession Is it normal to have a "slight"shade of oil on the forks? More like just a slippery feel without oil weeping out? Or should the fork legs be bone dry? Thanks man

[@rendition8528]

Dude cant believe this only has 4k views, thank you so much for helping, love from Taiwan

[@Stan_in_Shelton_WA]

GREAT DETAILS! All too often people give only general mechanical instructions and never give the CRITICAL details. great job at that.

[@harshil102]

Man... You are awesome. This process is a little intimidating. I just bought some used 2017 forks with plans to apply the GP revalve and install onto my 2016 XSR. Your video makes me feel so much more comfortable approaching this job.

[@dzizas]

Wish every mechanic was as careful as you, to not damage or even scratch anything

[@shawn950sm]

Man you are really great at these videos , very detailed perfect for the DIY out there. I just bought a 17 FZ-09 used 3k on it and plan on many upgrades I will subscribing for more vids thanks and keep up the good work ....

[@verdrix3990]

Thank you for posting this video! I appreciate how thorough you are with the steps, was able to follow along and upgrade the forks on my '19 MT-09!

[@akquicksilver]

Just noticed near the end of your video, the FJR in the back ground. I've owned an FJR since new in 2004. Great bike for when I want to go distance and take the wife along. Bought my FZ in 2014 and love them both. I'm definitely a Yammie fan.

[@bigb27me]

Incredibly Informative & helpful video!! Meticulously planned, executed and explained. Every step in the process was not only well demonstrated but also thoroughly explained in precise (and necessary) detail. Everything from setting up your work space, figuring out the best option available for upgrading your bike's front end suspension (based on your budget, ability & desired results), to locating the special tools & additional resources if needed... All while demonstrating how to properly complete each step of the process from start to finish, ensuring that anyone who watches the video and follows his instructions will be able to successfully upgrade the front suspension on their own motorcycle. Thank you!

[@sajadeshahidpour2008]

Greetings from France, many, many thanks for your video ! Crystal clear for a non-native. Amazing explanations including all those little tricky details and tips which make the difference. One and half hour of instructive, much helpful information.

[@jcarlos88]

Nice you referenced the Triumph’s Triple RS because that’s a great comparative point, whoever has ridden Triumph’s Triples know those are precise handling machines so I know what huge kind of improvement comes from the kit. Thanks!

[@blunt785]

Brian I know you from CO. Over the time I've learnt you're a very capable guy with everything you do but brother can I just say I admire your ethic. Spin out!

[@landonhenderson8836]

I'm getting ready to install drop in cartridges into my FZ 09 forks, and your video is all i could ask for. Best tutorial I think I've seen for any DIY! Keep it up your a pro in my book

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Thanks! Enjoy the new suspension :)

[@akquicksilver]

I went with the Race Tech valve and spring kit on my 2014 and went to 10W fork oil. I also installed the Penske shock from Stoltec. Very pleased, completely transformed the bike. Great video, I wish this would have been a vailable in 2015 when I did my bike.

[@beverke7]

Great vid, very clearly explained and filmed, you should have your own shop 👍😉😎

[@tomfjr3872]

Great vid once again .. tks for an inside look at the forks.

[@akquicksilver]

I don't know what your background training or trade is, but I've been a gas turbine millwright over 30 years and I just wanted to tell you what an excellent job you did, not only the process but the explanation and techniques. I built my own tool for compressing the spring that captured the entire fork tube and was compressed with an impact on a long thread bolt. Your straps worked fine, but I like fabricating tooling anyway. Great job on the video.

[@stephenromano1906]

Great Job in providing the right amount on info in each step. I definitely feel I have a far better understanding of what’s involved with each part of an inverted front suspension setup.

[@Apainia]

Outstanding video man.. the best so far i've seen on youtube

[@cyril4733]

Nice job mate! Easy to understand and nicely described!

[@urdnal]

Hey Bryan, just wanted to say thanks for such a detailed video. As a fellow man of similar heft, I also found the suspension lacking. Just finished taking off my XSR900's forks, really easy. Dropping them of tomorrow to get NIX 30 cartridges put in. Gonna follow your other video to put in the rear shock after that (also Öhlins, gotta keep that matching yellow spring haha).

[@tasman1340]

I was quite surprised what's involved with an upside down suspension now I know how it works and pull it apart and put it back together you did a pretty good job there Brian and also explaining it to

[@samschultz6106]

You are fantastic thank you so much for making a video like this!

[@marshall3498]

Wonderful how to video as always I always enjoy your garage working videos waiting on more of the recent fjr trip videos lol I'm probably going to get a new 2017 fjr in the beginning of 2018 myself

[@shadowphl]

Your skills set sir is incredible. Since day one you have been producing invaluable videos for the diy'ers in the stead, this however is beyond my skills! Nevertheless, good job Mr. Bryan as always!

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Thanks for watching! Yeah I know this one will be a 'I'm bringing it to my shop' for the vast majority lol

[@bill64gr]

I had good luck with Ohlins springs and oil also.I did that after installing Ya 335 Ohlins shock.Best money spent on the bike!

[@pauliglic]

Great video!! Thanks for posting. Alot of helpful tips.

[@scoummarc1845]

Thank you for the time spent to do this video. It ll be very usefull .

[@Patrick.Henry1776]

Awesome tutorial with great detail! Thanks!

[@pauleyyc]

I don't even own a motorcycle yet I watched this entire video. Good presentation Bryan

[@TwoWheelObsession]

LOL Thanks!

[@riffcover9000]

Awesome video! I was taught to allow the forks to align themselves by pushing down on the yoke multiple times once you've tightened the axle. After that you'd torque the axle and pinch bolts. Then to tighten the calipers, spin the wheel and apply front brake, torque the calipers while maintaining brake pressure. This way you've done two things. With the first, you've aligned the forks and let them settle to their natural position (eliminates chances of tank-slappers/death-wobbles). And with the second, the calipers become perfectly aligned with their mounting points and the brake pads are perfectly settled, keeping the rotor perfectly in the middle of both brake pads. Its one of those principals you apply on any motorcycle. What are your thoughts?

[@StreetFighter_Brah]

The only fork video you'll need 👍

[@2lbsTrigrPull]

Really cool tutorial! Thank you for this! I put in an Öhlins cartridge system but this was helpful nonetheless!

[@craighoffman8160]

Great video. Not rocket science, but it was good to see how the cartridge comes apart and that heat is needed. Used your video while putting Stoltec cartridges in my Super Tenere's forks. The internals look mostly identical by the way.

[@akquicksilver]

Another must upgrade is replacing the brake lines with a good set of braided SS. I went with Spiegler, made big difference in the binders.

[@onelifeliveit999]

i love all your videos they are so to the point well done brother keep doing the good work i just purchase the bitubo for my mt09 2017 i am waiting for them then i do the back as well but first i am going to the front just like you did

[@plpwheeler]

Awesome DIY!

[@justaordinaryguy]

How in the world did you learn all of this? Did you go to the motorcycle mechanic school? Bravo, Bryan!

[@kellyj5389]

Wow. Very well done

[@jades323]

A lot of people say bad things about the suspension but myself being 160lbs the suspension it’s damn near perfect

[@hornet224]

Great video, detailed so well that I am sure I don't want to do it. But, on my Honda CB1100 that also rides like a pogo stick, I bought an Andreani Misano hydraulic fork cartridge that I think I can do, but not sure all the tools I need for it. BTW, I miss your videos for the FJR - I understand why. Thank you for everything.

[@JoseOchoa-dw9vk]

Awesome video.

[@PedroDVC]

Man, your bike looks fucking amazing!

[@13apostate]

Great video, TWO! Stoltec Moto owes you a debt of gratitude, if not one of finance, for this. Without this video, they'd have never got my cash! One question, though...what diameter drill bit did they send you to drill out the compress-side cartridge? My kit didn't come with one.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Sorry I have no idea what size it was just email Them

[@tbHighlandRider]

Excellent Instructional Video! If I'm just swapping the springs for stiffer ones: Do I need to do the steps past the 20 minute mark in your video? Thanks!

[@coqui0890]

Great how to video 👍👊👌and I don't even have this motorcycle

[@kostasrestas]

hello from Greece! nice video! i have to ask you something... i have an xt660z tenere 2008. before some days i replace the forks with wr426f 2002 forks with the wheel of wr426f of course.. so, i need stifer springs for soure.. im 100 kilos.. what springs to buy to have real smooth riding..? what i must calculate οr see at description of product before i buy?you know.. 46mm are the forks from wr426f.

[@Akrapovic581]

Pro tip: put "MT-09" (with and without dash) in your vid title. This is the FZ-09 name in Europe. Very Good video TwoWheelObsession.

[@BlueArden_X]

Gj there! It is very important to mention to use the brake lever a few times before riding.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

+Mihai Coste not a bad point

[@dnlgrhm]

Outstanding! It amazes me how easy you make it look. Perfect camera angles and just enough video for each step - better and better. Would this same kit work for the 2017 FJ-09?

[@TwoWheelObsession]

+Daniel Graham thanks! Not this kit but they have another for it!

[@mickd2076]

Thanks for the great video. What size cartridge holding tool do I need to remove the stock cartridges. I have a 2014 FZ09?

[@nathanjose504]

Tnx for the great video! Is it possible to do the same upgrade and result on a '16 model? You mentioned that the earlier model is different from the '17 and newer models. Would the upgrade procedure be the same?

[@davormataic9247]

respect man

[@ritchsuk1840]

I've just had this done to my Tiger Sport 1050 in UK using some RaceTech kit- which seems identicle to your setup using new pistons, shim stack and springs- I opted to have mine professionally installed as wasn't brave enough to fit myself but my word it's an amazing difference isn't it? Get your rear shock changed for a Nitron NTR2 and you won't look back!

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Yep like I said at the end, everyone who's done a great suspension upgrade KNOWS how big of a difference it is :) A Penske double clicker is next up :)

[@ritchsuk1840]

TwoWheelObsession that's a fab idea- do they spring the rear shock to your weight too? One. That's adjustable for rebound and compression is advantageous!

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Yep!

[@tate2798]

Will this setup and the rear shock setup work with a 2019 mt 09?

[@LunchBXcrue]

Do you know of any sites that sell seats that are shaved down for the mt09 or more narrow? I'm looking at buying one but I'm only 5'5, I don't care about flat footing but I would like it to be a little lower. I have a cbr300r now which a 30.5" seat height. I don't really want to put lowering links in and change the steering geometry.

[@brucecaldwell5239]

Good how to vid. Might even try it myself on my 2017. If you have an air compressor it might help blow metal chips away in addition to the cleaning fluid. Not that it might matter here, but don't ever weld or use heat on a part just cleaned with brake cleaner. It can create phosgene gas. Not good.

[@francrihl4398]

Hey, really nice detailed video. Thanks! :) Did you upgrade also the rear shock?

[@ruizinkpt]

Awesome walkthrough, thanks for great effort! Do you think the stock suspension would be night and day different for a 165lbs rider? Also, have you found any good alternative to Yamaha's fog lights as a walkaround for the headlight issues? Cheers from Portugal!

[@TwoWheelObsession]

At 165 you are right in a good range as far as the springs, so you could certainly save the $100 there. The revalving would still make a HUGE improvement for all the control, yes!

[@steelsporty]

Another good vid, but I would caution against clamping fork tubes in a vice. It is easy to distort the aluminium tube in particular. The cast boss at the base is a good place to clamp while you work on the fork.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

As I clearly said, it's just holding it, not preventing rotation. It's also in the instructions they give you. Non-issue.

[@msport6191]

Morning How did you arrive at the 42mm when setting up the forks. Thanks

[@eddiealvarez7584]

Outstanding video very helpful. I have a question do you think the fork kit gave you what you were looking for as far as matching street triple handling or do you think a full front forks cartridge would be needed?

[@TwoWheelObsession]

100% satisfied

[@justintan7370]

Hi, What do you suggest when to service your fork oil?

[@alotl1kevegas860]

Curious, you never mentioned the drive size of the socket. Did you use a 3/8" or 1/2" ?? Thank you

[@JunkieVirus]

gonna do this, hope they sent to holland to.

[@BrewCityRider]

This is an insanely complicated project LOL! I wouldn't have the patience or skill to tackle it. Very impressed by your knowledge of these Yamaha's. Where did you get your training?

[@TwoWheelObsession]

+BrewCityRider just doing things over the years

[@philipholland3532]

Good video, you don't say what weight oil you use, I have a 2018 mt09

[@submissions72]

B when are you going to add steel braided brake lines?

[@isaaclarson]

What torch and fuel did you use? Is that butane?

[@mikewormsman]

Hey dude looks like you have some experience with suspension nice job on the vid.How does the bike feel now compared to stock?. have you stuck with this suspension setup or have you since re done the fronts with complete drop ins.would doing springs and oil only in fronts give a similar result with out internal changes.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

While this maximizes the effect of whatever you have on, it doesn't make things better if you are out of weight range. I did complete front and rear then dialed it back in. Day and night. Springs and oil only do 1/2 the job. Without proper valving FOR those changes, it's not very effective.

[@tomrushing7703]

I installed race tech springs today. The new springs are 19mm or 3/4 inch longer than stock. I did not cut the stock spacers. Is this a big problem, what ill effects will this have?

[@francrihl4398]

That means you have built in "preload". Measures sag acording your weight. Did you upgrade also rear shock? And how stiiff spring did you built in?

[@Brad-RB]

Does anyone know if Yamaha has plans to bring the MT 09 SP to the USA? That version has the upgraded suspension.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Not so far. Word is the front is largely unchanged though. Aftermarket is still better.

[@CarlosDiaz-pf4ve]

what size of drill ones with the kit?

[@MS-sk7kw]

Great video! How do you think the stock suspension and shock will handle a 210 pounds rider?

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Not bad at all

[@davidscanlan19]

Two you seem to know your stuff, great videos. I have an mt 09 sp with the gold forks. I would like to change them to black. What would you recommend to do this? Can I just buy the sleeves in black and change or would you recommend paint or wrap or burn until black

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Wrap

[@trailrider1980]

Let's swap....I want the gold ones

[@hisaanhaq4116]

Subscribed I am thinking about MT-09 later in year but wonder why you changed your mind from the gsxs 1000 to this bike instead? I also like the Suzuki so trying to decide

[@TwoWheelObsession]

This has waaay more character and the sound is addicting

[@robdefire4747]

You dont happen to remember the thread size and pitch of the pump tool?

[@matthewpatton5398]

It's much easier if you undo the bottom bolt with the fork still fully assembled. Lean hard on the fork while you hit it with an impact and 80% of the time the bolt will come cleanly out. No need for a holder.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Non-issue, it comes right out. And you need the holder for other points of the project.

[@tbHighlandRider]

I'm 200lbs NO Gear, what spring rate would you suggest for track days and sporty riding ? Thanks!

[@TwoWheelObsession]

You’ll have to ask stoltec

[@dannyk3725]

Thanks for the in depth video. Did you know you’re using your files backwards?

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Because the part was vibrating too much. It doesn’t matter just taking off the little material.

[@dannyk3725]

TwoWheelObsession Try out single cut fine or 2nd cut files. The fine doesn’t remove a lot of material. You can also run them sideways like you were doing.

[@jasonsmith9161]

Great video and I could do all of this but I’d much rather pay someone to do it.

[@kellyj5389]

Like going from a Buick to a bmw ride wise I assume

[@MurphyTheBandChild]

When can we expect the video on updating the rear suspension? :)

[@TwoWheelObsession]

+MurphyTheBandChild very soon ;)

[@sethglenn9022]

The painted wheels are so delicate. If you even lightly tap anything hard on the wheels, the paint will chip, guaranteed or your money back.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Walmart. Gloss black touch up bottle in auto. Perfect match

[@dancingmaryjane]

Long time viewer and finally have the funds to upgrade my beloved FZ 09's suspension. With full gear on and saddlebags I'm at 220 pounds. The stock suspension just doesn't cut it. I road my friends Speed Triple R and never knew a motorcycle could feel that good. After upgrading my FZ's suspension (Andreani Cartridges & Nitron Shock) will this put it at the same level as Speed Triple and the other top tier bikes? Even with this investment this route still is way cheaper than buying a Speed Triple or Ducati. I love the FZ but the suspension is just horrid. I have lost a bunch of weight 275 down to 191 pounds and it still sucks. I cant afford a Speed Triple R but I don't mind throwing money at my 2017 FZ to hopefully get it at the same level. I plan on going to this placed named Fast Bike Industries in Hendersonville North Carolina where they will professionally set the bike up for me. I heard Nitron was really good and will try that. The shock is $700 and cartridges are $650. They said $200 to install the front and $200 for the rear shock. You have ridden a lot of high doller bikes whats your take as far as the suspension upgrades on the FZ. Will this make it feel like a high dollar bike? sorry for the long message god bless

[@isaaclarson]

One question... What did you do to ensure the front forks we're perfectly parallel when you installed them?

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Non issue. The triple trees were not moved.

[@isaaclarson]

TwoWheelObsession I'm not very familiar with my bike yet (winter in Indiana, and I've never removed forks yet), so... Are the forks keyed into the triple clamps so they can't rotate?

[@isaaclarson]

TwoWheelObsession Also, do you think the combination of the fork and rear shock upgrade could be used at a track? I'll be primarily street riding, but I'd like to do some track riding as well.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

Forks don't work like that - they are free to rotate. Non issue.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

A best track setup will be different than a best street setup. Goes for any bike.

[@binkipower]

So, what weight spring did he use? Can't find it and don't want to watch 90 minutes all over again.

[@TwoWheelObsession]

It doesn't matter. Talk to your suspension dealer for your correct weight.

[@TheBingo1951]

fatto sulla mia fz1 fazer 10anni fa con pezzi di ricambio r1 sostituito pure la molla con una piu lunga e forato con foro da 3mm il tappo idraulico di fine corsa !!

[@martink.9442]

I cant live there. Where are the corners? Flat straight Street. We got Millions of corners here in Germany. And in the Alps in Austria and Italy is corners heaven 😁🏁🏍️

[@kevinearls7496]

I lived in Germany for 7 years. The United States being flat and straight is false common misconception. It is huge. Look at a topographic map of the U.S. Some areas are flat. Some are far from it. Look at how many Austrias fit inside the USA. It's 116 times as big. You can fit 27 Germanys inside. I don't know why people think it's flat with straight roads.

[@srta.superflua1787]

Impac pistol to extrac

[@whocarescameraj1809]

Well, I think I might pass on doing this myself..

[@MrGeorge0285]

32:21 Chloe is not impressed. Inspection failed.

[@lralcantara]

"Its super easy...." said no one in the comments....