recommendation for suspension advice | GTAMotorcycle.com

recommendation for suspension advice

jimnto

New member
After 40 years - I have been easing back into riding for the past 4 years on some used bikes that were old with unknown maintenance. They started - I rode.

Last summer I bought a 2003 Suzuki DL1000 and I would like to invest in trying to make sure I get more out of my riding. I have been commuting but I want to do more this summer. Tail of the Dragon anyone?

I know it is going to be a process because I don't even really know what a fine bike feels like to ride. So i need advice determining if my suspension is working the way it should. I need advice determining if it is set up for me. I need advice regarding upgrades I can do for myself. It is a 15 year old bike so i am not sure I want to throw money at it.

Taking stock of the suspension. Where and who would I speak to? I live near the CNE downtown.

Cheers
Jim N
 
Local shops that deal with roadracers and dirtbikes can help with this. Pro 6 Cycle and Rider's Choice come to mind, and they're not far from where you are. A baseline assessment shouldn't cost much. Adjustments that are within the scope of whatever the bike comes with, shouldn't cost much. It starts getting expensive when you start getting into changing springs and revalving dampers.

The next level above that are specialist shops. John Sharrard (Accelerated Technologies) is one such. (I have a bike at his shop right now getting the forks revalved and the shock re-sprung.) He tends to be backlogged. Probably the dirt/dual-sport/adventure crowd have their own specialists ... I don't know them.
 
If that was my bike,i would put new head bearings in it,lube the rear suspension linkage,put progressive suspension springs in the front and set the sag with the help of a friend.
 
If that was my bike,i would put new head bearings in it,lube the rear suspension linkage,put progressive suspension springs in the front and set the sag with the help of a friend.

Yes, good advice + check the rear shock damping. You don't mention number of km on the bike but if 15 years old and/or 40,000 -50,000 km on the rear shock it's likely worn out and needs to be replaced or rebuilt.
 
I'm guessing your STROM will be on pavement mostly, you're looking for a good touring setup.

I'm also guessing you're not riding on the razor's edge - a 40 year hiatus means you're 50+, your selection of bikes suggests ergo and touring comfort are your main riding priorities, the bike's age suggests you manage your riding budget. If your knee dragging days are in the rear view mirror, you're looking for a safe and dependable setup.

When I moved to an ST, I had Speedworks in Markham setup my stock bike. First they did a safety inspection on my stock suspension, then the mechanic spent an hour with me dialing in SAG, preload and rebound settings. We did a few test runs to fine tune. Lastly, he taught me how to make the necessary adjustments for riding heavy and light. $80 bucks well spent, stock suspension was deemed satisfactory so no parts required.
 
If that was my bike,i would put new head bearings in it,lube the rear suspension linkage,put progressive suspension springs in the front and set the sag with the help of a friend.

Pretty much all you need for a an old street bike. Along with that comes fork seals and fork oil. You can stick to the aftermarket spring manufacturers recommendation for the weight and volume as a starting point.
 
John Sharrard (Accelerated Technologies) Can't go wrong with John!
 

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