question about setting static sag

[diymirage]

hey guys

i just read the shock setting article, took some measurements and came up with some questions

i took two sets of measurements, the first at the part where the side panel meets the rear fender and the second where the rear fender kicks down (stock fender of course)

this is what i got
on the centerstands
565 620

with me on it
470 510

balanced on 2 wheels
520 580

this would give me a race sag off 100-105 and a fee sag off 40-45
if im reading the article right im happy with the race sag but slightly over on my free sag

can i adjust this or is this a spring rate issue?


thanks guys (and you too butterfly)

[dfeckel]

I'm kind of new to thinking about race versus static sag, but I think you may need a stiffer spring to decrease the static sag while keeping your race sag where it is.

If you simply try to crank down the preload some more with the current spring, you will get your static sag correct, but then your race sag will be too little.

I think you will need a stiffer spring to get your sags perfect. However, I think it's worthwhile cranking the preload anyway to see where your race sag ends up when your static sag is correct. Maybe the race sag will be close enough.

[diymirage]

sounds like it may be worth a shot

now, im not looking to replace the spring anytime soon, so what should be prefered, to have the proper race sag or to have the proper free (static) sag ?

[rbates9]

I would think you would want the race sag right because that is what is in play while you are riding it. I don't think it will matter much what the sag is when it is on the kick stand.

[Julien D]

^ I agree.

[diymirage]

so in other words, dont change a thing ?

i can do that

[tirebiter]

By the results you posted, and if your shooting for 35 static and 100~105 rider, your springs too heavy.
A 40~45 static (bike sag) could cause the shock to be further down its stroke from the get go, causing it to loose it's initial plushness.
It's all a crap shoot, set it for static, then for rider weight- check it both ways and see if you can come up with a compromise..
Personally, I'd set it at 35 static and see how it feels, and more importanty, how it turns..

[gsa102]

I think you are as good as you can get. Kawasaki called for 30-40 mm of static sag for the KDX. I would not change it unless you are unhappy with the ride.

You would need a lighter spring to lessen the static sag, but maybe just one size.

I have too little static sag on mine and it is harsh in the initial stroke.