Bucking Bronco - Suspension Maintenance - Sonic Springs

[Guest]

Slowly checking things off my maintenance list, and I've come to something I know nothing about. Forks and front suspension.

My 82 GS850G can feel like a mechanical bull going down these Milwaukee streets (although the streets are to blame as well - some really crappy ones!) and I have no idea the last time the front fork was inspected. I've been reading a little here and there, and like what I'm reading about Sonic Springs. Because I'm heavier I know that will affect what springs I purchase. I'll have to figure out which ones based on the info on their site.

Is replacing the springs something a newbie can do solo? I'll have the Basscliff tutorial to reference, just feeling like maybe I'll need another person.

[Steve]

No problem to do "solo".

How are the seals? Going to do them at the same time?

If the seals are good, you can change springs and oil without removing the forks, but with the level of the rest of the work you have done, you might as well do the seals, too, and KNOW what condition they are in.

I put 1.1 springs and 10w oil in my 850, but it has a larger-than-average rider and a frame-mounted fairing. You might need 1.0 or 0.9 springs. I would probably stick with the 10w oil.

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[growler]

The seals are fine (no leakage or apparent wear) but like you said, I may as well do them too so I know they were done, and when.

Thanks for the feedback, Steve.

[Brendan W]

I have no idea the last time the front fork was inspected.

Start right there. What's the bet when you drain it you get a latte and what air pressure are you running in the forks. Mine has a ramp preloader. If yours is not air, again what preload or spacers have been fitted. I changed my fork oil three times before it started to get reasonable looking.
If I could suggest that you check out basic settings like static sag front and back. Rear shocks jacked up to the last can make it very uncomfortable one up riding and what pressures are you running in the tyres.

[growler]

My rear suspension is set at a 3. Is think that is standard?

I've never taken apart a fork before. This should be fun.

[growler]

Just ordered new seals from Z1, also picked up 2 of the front caliper rebuild kits....might as well do those too!

[Slycox]

Good luck, I just did fork seals and springs on mine. Huge difference and it really isn't that difficult.

Hopefully your fork seals get there. The ones I ordered from Z1 went to guam...currently in Hawaii.

[Wingsconsin]

I did them last year on mine.
It wasn't really too difficult - I did Sonic Springs and the ride is great.
Be sure to install the seals the correct way. At this time I am uncertain of mine and notice a little fork oil ends up on the tube after rding.
Not a leak really , just a line above the dust covers of fork oil...
So I will be re-doing mine this fall or over the winter..
Right now I am riding so much on my 2 bikes that driving a car is really weird.... (nice)
I have the threaded rod that you will need to un-bolt them - let me know when you are are planning on doing this and I can loan it to you..
Or bring the forks over and we can do them together if our schedules permit...

[growler]

Sounds good, thanks!

[storm 64]

I am also planning on suspension up grades. I have to replace my steering head bearings. There is a detente feeling when I turn the handle bars. I also plan on doing the sonic spring up grade as well... Come on payday

[mikerophone]

I also plan on doing the sonic spring up grade as well... Come on payday

Me too, at some point this fall, and I hear that! Tagging along, need to do one of my 850's at some point too.

Growler, love your approach, a lot of riders I've known over the years just want to do the minimum. You're better off doing everything while you've got it apart IMO.

[growler]

Yeah, it will be apart longer, but I'd rather only have to take the front apart once. I also want to get rid of the brake line splitter and go with a two line system, and take off the huge headlight ears. Maybe I'll do that too. Hah!

[azr]

You may want to consider replacing your front steering stem bearings if you haven't done so already if you're pulling the front end apart. At least give them a good check and determine the condition.

[Wingsconsin]

With all of this tinkering you are doing ...arre you doing ANY riding ..?
My GS850 needs some work too..but it is good enough for now as I ride the snot out of it..
My tinker list is :
Adjust carbs - check for loose float bowl (got a very tiny leak)
Re-balance carbs
Valve shims - <sigh>
Air filter - oil change-
Check the front spring job ( I think I got the seals in upside down so I get some weeping)
Finish the seat ( I am going to re-do it again this fall/winter)

But it runs and rides just fine for now -- so I am adding some miles instead...

[Steve]

... Valve shims - <sigh> ...

I happen to know a guy that has a nice shop that is less than a full-day ride from you.

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