Is there a way to adjust the stock suspension for a heavier rider? It looks adjustable, but Since I have no idea what I am doing with it I was going to defer to you guys. 220 pounds geared up I am, I’m not going to spend any money on new fork oil or springs. So, is there any preload or sag I should adjust on the stock suspension? Thanks!
You can adjust the rear. You just need a shock adjuster wrench (also referred to as a spanner). They are cheap.
You can adjust the front a bit as well by using a large flat blade screwdriver and screw the caps down until there is only 1 ring showing on each. Make sure you line up the screw heads the same.
Both adjustments are outlined in your owners manual
what direction on the rear do I need to go to set it up for a heavier rider?
Look at the adjustment, you want to squash the spring more. I think it would be the shallowest dip.
You will lose suspension travel with these adjustments but it will support your weight better.
riggies, I'm the same weight as you and haven't bothered to adjust the suspension. I agree with earlier replies -- check your owner's manual for guidance.
Cool. It’s probably fine then. I’ll mess with it one notch and see if I notice anything. Heck, I’ve had it this long without changing it. Thanks for the advice.
You may want to adjust the front too. The first time I The CB out for aggressive mountain riding I had to pull over and stiffen up the front to prevent the excessive dive. It's an easy adjustment and you may want to do it to match the pre-loaded rear.
You will lose suspension travel with these adjustments but it will support your weight better.
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Ferret, are you suggesting that the springs will completely compress (coil lock) ?
no not all of the suspension travel will be lost just some