Rear spring rate for GS1100E?

[Anonymous]

Hi guys,
What are you running for a rear spring rate on your 1100s? I've got 412 series Progressive shocks on mine with 105/150 springs. The problem is that I was out riding today and the back tire was jumping off the ground on me. This was while riding at 140-170 km/hr on quite rough roads (90-110 mph). When I was going through corners at this speed the bike was hard to control as the rear tire was wagging back and forth. To cut to the point, are my rear springs too hard or soft? I've got them set at the softest setting right now but I've never had this problem with the 400 so I'm not sure which way to go.

I hope to have things dialed in for next weekend so I can keep my friend on his 929 Fireblade even further behind me.

Thanks, Steve

[Anonymous]

Thats pretty close to the stock spring rates ( 108/150 if I remember right). I have the same shocks and springs on the 750 and have them on the 3rd preload setting. Comfortable with Nancy and me and firm enough for quick riding by myself. Have you checked swingarm or wheel bearings? I had my swingarm pivot shaft back off on me once and it felt like I was riding a piece of wet spaghetti; scary 8O. Easy to see too; I was moving the arm like nothing when it was on the sidestand. Just something to check.

Oh, get the braided lines when you can, I put them on the front this past week; what a difference!! 8)

[Anonymous]

Okay, I'll up the preload on the rear since all the bearings are tight. I've still got to change the front fork oil but I only get 2 days a week to ride so maintenance is getting ignored at this point. The brake lines are here, just waiting on a new banjo bolt.

Steve

[Billy Ricks]

It does sound as if you could use a bit more preload Steve. If you have a centerstand get the rear wheel off the ground and measure from the axle to some point straight up from there. Then put the bike on the ground and sit on it so all your weight compresses the suspension and measure again. For the kind of aggressive riding you are talking about I'd recommend one inch of sag.