The forks I think are pretty close as is. About the only problem I have is after big hits I get a decent amount of spring back from the front end, be it rocks or a SURPRISE! bump in the road, speed bumps, curbs, etc. I had some deflection issues when I lowered the rear an inch with the factory adjustment, rocks were killing me, but raised back up that mostly went away. I definitely need a fluid change (getting close to a year of use, 3 years in the forks, and close to 15,000 miles) and to have the head bearings checked out and greased, which I'm going to have done in January at a local shop (MRP) since I don't want to do that in my apartment parking lot in winter and it needs to get done. RaceTech says the spring rates are about right for my weight. Only physical change I'm planning will be either Amsoil light shock fluid, which is close to stock, or Redline Light shock oil which is slightly heavier for more damping. Opinions? I've got clickers for compression and rebound stock that I've messed with somewhat, definitely need to do more testing.
The rear isn't as happy. I'm getting a lot of harshness on quick bumps like speed bumps at reasonable speeds (somewhat less hard and more controlled if I go faster lol), chattering on washboard surfaces paved or dirt, and feel like there's an overall lack of compliance. I feel like the back end is kicking and slipping when going down rocky trails instead of soaking up the bumps. I feel expansion joints in my spine on the highway. Doesn't feel too bad on smooth pavement or soft soils. Other than setting the clickers to specs recommended by other riders of similar weight and messing with the ride height I haven't touched it.
Debating between having MRP rebuild the shock with RaceTech stuff and helping me set the sag and preload correctly or go through GoRace, a shop in VA that does a rebuild and custom revalve of the stock shock, replacing the shock myself while futzing through the settings. Is there anywhere in the Baltimore area that I can do some testing and clicker fussing without getting arrested? I'm pretty well lost with how I should go about getting the ride that I want. Basically hoping for more compliance over rocks, better hookup on acceleration, and less harshness everywhere. I think.
. It`s funny i`m on my way to see him today about my bike. I`m sure i could do it myself but, I plain on hav`ing the DR for so time so i want it right.