In motocross racing, every millisecond counts, and having a finely-tuned suspension can make all the difference. Here are five motocross suspension tips from the pros that can help you shave time off your laps and improve your overall riding experience.
- Understand Your Suspension. The suspension on a motocross bike typically consists of a front fork and a rear shock, each with preload, compression damping, and rebound damping settings. Preload adjusts the initial tension on the spring, affecting ride height and sag. Compression damping controls how the suspension compresses under load, while rebound damping manages the rate at which the suspension returns after being compressed.
- Set Your Sag. Sag is the amount your suspension compresses under your weight and is critical for proper balance and handling. To set your sag, measure the bike’s rear end height when it’s on a stand and then again with you on it in full gear. The difference between these two measurements is your sag.
- Adjust Damping to Suit Track Conditions. The compression and rebound damping should be adjusted according to track conditions. Consider a stiffer compression setting on a track with big jumps and hard landings to prevent bottoming out.
- Regular Maintenance is Key. Motocross suspension components wear out, and fluids degrade, affecting performance. Regular maintenance is essential, including changing the fork oil, checking for worn seals, and inspecting the shock linkage and bearings.
- Test and Tune. Finally, we know that finding the perfect suspension setup requires testing and tuning. Make one adjustment and test ride on a familiar track to gauge the impact. Track your settings and how the bike handles with each change.
A well-tuned suspension can make a significant difference in your motocross performance. What works for one rider may not work for another, so finding the setup that feels right for you is important. If you want professional guidance on optimizing your bike’s motocross suspension, give us a call.