(09-20-2020, 11:43 AM)Whippa_imp Wrote: [ -> ]2014 standard. I know nothing about suspension adjustment. Hoping y'all could suggest where I should be and how to get there. I presume it's set wherever stock is set considering I bought new. 5'11in 230lbs. Where should itbbe and how do I adjust? What I do know is a spanner wrench is needed for rear. Size?
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There is no hard and fast rule on adjusting preload, except the suspension should not bottom out on potholes or large dips, nor be so stiff that the ride is too harsh. It's all trial and error. The nice thing is that it's easy to change, and costs nothing beyond the tool.
US spec CB1100s have only a spring preload adjustment, in the front forks, and on the rear shocks. Both compensate for weight by compressing the spring a little more - maybe a range of about 20mm.
The front adjustment is made by using a large-blade screwdriver to turn the screw adjuster up or down. The rear uses a 5-position ramped collar at the spring's base that is rotated to adjust.
Most often, adjustments are made at the shocks. I'm about your size, ride solo, and have it in the middle of 5 positions. If you are heavier, carry a lot of luggage, or carry a passenger often, you may want to give a little more spring preload at the rear.
When you make adjustments, it's easiest to do it on the center stand. I've seen preload adjusted by bare hand, with a punch and hammer, and with Channel-locks - sometimes with a rag. The factory tool kit tool is about $20, but it only fits a certain diameter shock, fits poorly and will cause pain if it slips off.
It's better to get an adjustable ring spanner (also called adjustable hook wrench) for about the same price. The best is the Honda tool 07702-0020001 made in Japan. I've had mine for decades, it adjusts between 1"-3" diameters, and use it to adjust steering head bearings (and bicycle threaded stem nuts and bottom brackets).
However, they are over $130 now (way cheaper back then), so Bike Master (a Tucker-Rocky brand) sells a non-Japanese copy that works as well (07-072575). You can order them from any dealer, or online, about $25-30.
You can also get a smaller pivoting ring spanner that you can carry with you. They have a limited size range, so you can't adjust mono-shocks, and the tip may be too broad do steering bearings. It is about $15, and works way better than the toolkit tool. On eBay and Amazon under "adjustable hook spanner wrench".
- good one.