Racetech adapted: expectation on softness, too high?

[alquimista]

Hi!

I have an FJ-09 2016; stock suspension was very stiff for me,and uncomfortable in bumpy roads; a specialist in bike suspension recommended me Ohlins or Racetech springs, calibrated to my weight (275lb). I just installed Racetech springs and Recetech gold valves for the front bars, and "valved" the rear shock, adapting a Racetech spring there as well. When testing after I did not experience any improvement; was the same sensation as the OEM suspension.

The parameter I had of comfort, was the soft suspension of multipurpose bikes, like the Tenere xt660z or Honda XRE 300, which are very soft and comfortable; I have been told the hardness is because the FJ has a sports nature and cannot be as soft as a multipurpose. Maybe my expectation was too high? Any thoughts? specially those of you that have had a change like this.

Edited December 3, 2023 by alquimista

[peteinpa]

At your first sentence I thought you must weigh 140 lbs. No one has ever complained the FJ is too stiff.

Was the suspension stock?

 

[duckie]

One of the things spring rates does is control how much fork travel there is for commpression and extension travel of the fork.
A heavy weight on a spring that has a low rate will compress the spring to where there is little travel for compression and lots of extension travel. Bottoming out is the result. 

The purpose of matching spring rate to weight of rider is so that there is enough proper fork travel for compression and extension.

Having unrealistic expection of the overall capability of a motorcycle suspension is another problem. No motorcycle suspension setup will smooth out or absorb all the different type bumps and holes you can experince in the real world.

Its all about comprise. 
 

In the orginal post, there are conficting statements. Kinda makes wonder.

[piotrek]

Does it feel like the bike wants to harshly bounce you off the seat with each bump? I am assuming you played with settings, but if not... try adjusting the damping screw on the shock. Do a bounce test first, and if the rear perks up right away without any oscillation at all than it's set too stiff. You can then turn the screw toward 'S' and try again. When happy, go road test it and adjust again if needed. You will have to make adjustment to both front and rear to 'balance' the suspension for a composed ride.