Steering and Suspension Dynamics

[KiwiKat]

I haven't ridden regularly since late seventies, (I was only a toddler). Painful memories. I brought the Katana as a proven new bike to get back into it, and am loving every minute. It'll take a while to get things set up properly.

[GSVR]

I haven't ridden regularly since late seventies, (I was only a toddler). Painful memories. I brought the Katana as a proven new bike to get back into it, and am loving every minute. It'll take a while to get things set up properly.

Theres probably the main reason the Kat feels like it does. Seventys roadbikes generally have very soft suspension compared to modern bikes.

[CookMySock]

Last time it was a bloody cold morning, but I thought it shouldn't bounce like it did.

When the suspension is very cold, it will be extra firm, because the oil is thicker when it is cold. Mine is like this.

You will need to look at what adjustments you have on your suspension. You will need to set the preload correctly, front and rear. Search for "preload" on google and youtube.

Take a look at what other adjustments are available - maybe there is a compression and rebound adjustment available? Set them on fully soft, and start moving the rebound adjustment toward the "hard" setting, this will actually soften your ride. That is my understanding of it anyway, others will correct me here.

There is some good advice on the site available from experienced riders and that is what a new (new / old ) rider often needs.

Maybe the more experienced riders do know a lot, but they are often rude and unhelpful here, as you have discovered. Many newer riders have collectd this information also, and are much more willing to assist. It is fair that some experienced riders have already typed the same reply seven times for newbies, so they are tired of it, but there is no need for them to be rude.

We will always take what we want from what is offered.

Yes that is a good way of saying that.


Welcome to KB.

Steve

[blacksheep]

for what its worth before you even start to fiddle write down your susp settings that you have now,so at least you have a datum to work to.also adjust one thing at a time-and document it.(i hope this doesnt sound rude to some people)

[KiwiKat]

for what its worth before you even start to fiddle write down your susp settings that you have now,so at least you have a datum to work to.also adjust one thing at a time-and document it.(i hope this doesnt sound rude to some people)

May the soothing blessings of a thousand maidens come your way.

I'm of to have a play.

[blacksheep]

one maiden is enough

[The Stranger:Me]

Thanks Cowboyz. I appreciate your straight up response without additional verbal excrement.

Sorry but you are on wrong forum, this is KB. There really is no choice in the matter. Every redneck noob on a Hyobag who has been riding for all of 6 months needs to put his 2 cents in irrespective of whether or not they know what they are talking about.

wasn't trying to be funny,sorry if i upset you

Don't be so sensitive.

Maybe the more experienced riders do know a lot, but they are often rude and unhelpful here, as you have discovered.

That's no way to talk about Death and Drew, they're good people actually.

[blacksheep]

sarcasm mate

oh crap this is going off topic

[Bonez]

sarcasm mate

oh crap this is going off topic

It's the KB way.

KiwiKat your've picked a great bike to get back in the saddle with.

I'm no expert but the first thing you need to do is set up your rider and static sag I believe (the bike suspention-not the beer gut

http://www.moto-racing.co.uk/Guides/...nsionSetup.htm

You can PM the suspension experts etc, as mentioned, for detail too. I'm sure any of the local bike mechanics can throw a few tips your way as well.

[Drew]

When did we start worryong about goin off topic?

[KiwiKat]

I took the Kat for a quick run this morning. Checked tyres, warmed them up a bit and did the same stretch of road (about 500m stretch) and still got quite a bit of bounce but no where near as bad. Obviously cold temps make a big difference. As bike warmed up ride seemed to soften slightly.

I still find it a bit too hard in the front so I will slowly get it sorted, but will wait a bit for warmer temps and bike to settle in more.

I also got Graham Allardice's book 'The Biker's Bible' from the library which seems good value.