We'll after thinking about getting the standard suspension set up, I have after 2000 miles actually got it done. My ABS Mutley is, as we all know, a great bike, although I found the suspension to be a bit soft and slightly bouncier than I wanted. Didn't go for the Skyhook, as couldn't justify the money. As I know bugger all about setting up suspension, I decided to get it done by an expert. At £60 I think it is great value and recommended by a few mates. Home Steve at Peak Performance SW in Exeter has tweaked and set the suspension as per my requirements. Coming from a Gixxer I wanted it firmer and a sportier setting, but not taking away the comfort. Cranked up the rear preload and did stuff to the rebound and compression. All the settings were provided and great explanation of the technical jargon. Ride height has gone up at the rear, which being 5'8" isn't great, but not a show stopper. Front diving has also been reduced. Unfortunately I haven't had a chance to give it a good run out yet, but in the limited miles since the setup it already feels steadier in the bends. I'll report back after a longer test.
Mate,would be gratefull if ya could post what ya think off your set up,I've heard that boys change the rear spring to an ohlins 1,they are very soft and when your pushing on it feels like the just weave around everywhere like a hinge in the frame Cheers
Ok, 70 miles of various roads. Overall verdict - Improvement! Definitely an improvement over the previous standard settings. Through the bends is where the noticeable difference is. The bike feels more planted through the bends, tested on A and B roads. The rather floaty feeling, which was evident at times with the previous settings has gone. The front nose diving has also reduced, although it is still there a bit. The ride is obviously slightly firmer, due the preload being turned up to 30 turns, but the comfort has not disappeared. As I mentioned before, the ride height has risen by about 20mm due to the new settings. The settings are for a single rider and I am about 12 st 4lb. Steve has also provided slightly different settings for a track, but I am not really one for that. Too scared of throwing the lovely red machine down the tarmac on a track! I am intending to take a jaunt over to Wales to test further, but the Old Severn Bridge is closed this weekend, so another day it will have to be. I have not changed any of the original components, just the settings for preload, rebound and compression. They say the original suspension is good anyway, just needs tweaking. I can confirm it is worth the effort and small charge.
Good ride out yesterday to Abergavenny from Chepstow on the Usk road and back again. First real test for the new settings. Lot more planted and composed in the twisties, holding the line better. None of the bouncy feeling. this great bike just got even better!
Been and had my suspension set up today & rear spring changed by Reactive suspension in York . After reading other riders were having the same problems especially two up, I made some enquiries relating to the rear spring issue sorted out. After rear shock was removed the spring was tested and found 8.5kg/mm, this according to Gareth is far too soft for a touring machine, and after revealing a few weights for myself & Mrs he calculated that I would need a 11.5kg/mm rated spring. Rear shock refitted, then on with set up, as is the norm plenty of measurements, bit of tweaking and plenty of getting on and off bike, but after 45 mins of tweaking and a road test later a difference was noticed. Bike feels more balanced, holds line in corners better than before, no more front end dive whilst on the brakes. Total of £145 for ride in service to supply & fit new spring and full suspension set up. ww.reactivesuspension.co.uk
As I'm harder to kidnap at 125kg + and around 5feet9, think getting fat (ter), but starting from county rugby shape. I've upgraded front and rear springs. Much better. Multistrada designed for 8 stone test riders
That's 40kg more than me to keep the springs busy. I might start eating a bit more so I can reach the floor easier!:tongue:
