Keeping your motorcycle suspension in good shape

26-Jun-2023

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A motorcycle’s suspension system plays a crucial role in providing a smooth and controlled ride. It absorbs the bumps and impacts of the road, ensuring stability, handling, and rider comfort. To maintain optimal performance and safety, it is essential to keep your motorcycle suspension in good shape. In this blog post, we will discuss some key tips and practices to help you achieve that.

Regular Inspection

Regular inspection of your motorcycle suspension is essential to identify any potential issues. Check for signs of leakage, such as oil or grease on the fork tubes or shock absorbers. Inspect the seals, bushings, and mounting bolts for wear or damage. Any abnormalities or loose components should be addressed promptly to prevent further damage and ensure proper suspension function.

Suspension Setup

Understanding and adjusting your motorcycle’s suspension setup can greatly improve its performance. Depending on your riding style, weight, and road conditions, you may need to adjust the preload, compression, and rebound settings. Consult your motorcycle’s owner manual or seek professional advice to ensure proper setup. A well-tuned suspension system enhances handling, stability, and rider confidence.

Proper Maintenance

Regular maintenance of your motorcycle suspension is crucial for longevity and optimal performance. Here are some important maintenance tasks to keep in mind:

1. Clean and Lubricate: Clean the fork tubes and shock absorbers regularly to remove dirt, debris, and contaminants that can cause premature wear. Apply a suitable lubricant to ensure smooth operation and prevent corrosion.
2. Seal and Dust Seal Inspection: Check the fork seals and dust seals for any signs of leakage or damage. Replace worn or damaged seals to maintain proper sealing and prevent oil leakage.
3. Fluid Replacement: Over time, the fork oil or shock oil may degrade, affecting suspension performance. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and replace the suspension fluids at the recommended intervals.
4. Bushing and Bearing Maintenance: Inspect the bushings and bearings for wear or play. Replace any worn components to maintain proper suspension alignment and reduce unwanted movement.

Tire Maintenance

Proper tire maintenance is closely linked to suspension performance. Ensure your tires are properly inflated to the recommended pressure. Inspect the tire tread for wear and replace them when necessary. Worn-out tires can negatively impact suspension behaviour and compromise safety.

Professional Servicing

While basic maintenance can be performed by motorcycle owners, it is advisable to seek professional servicing periodically. Experienced technicians can conduct in-depth inspections, diagnose hidden issues, and perform specialised adjustments or repairs. Professional servicing is particularly important if you notice any significant changes in suspension behaviour or if you’re unsure about certain maintenance tasks.

 

First class job,attention to detail,set up suspension on my gsxr 750,after completing was told take for a ride around the block,so much more feeling from the bike would recommend 100%

James Follett

 

Maintaining a well-functioning motorcycle suspension is vital for your safety and riding experience. By following these tips for regular inspection, suspension setup, proper maintenance, tire care, and professional servicing, you can ensure that your motorcycle’s suspension remains in good shape. Remember, a properly maintained suspension system provides enhanced stability, handling, and rider comfort, allowing you to fully enjoy the thrill of the open road while staying safe.

If you’re in need of help with your motorcycle suspension, contact our team today!