Hyper pro fork springs

[the_undecider_imp]

In the 2013 service manual on page 1-7 it says use Pro Honda Suspension Fluid SS-8 (10W) or equivalent.

Thanks, I didn't have my manual in easy reach. I was expecting lighter viscosity, but honestly had no clue.

[TINK_imp]

I am finding that the stock springs are plenty stiff. I have even backed off the preload from the factory setting since I find it turns in quicker and tracks better through corners. I'm no lightweight at 230 lbs. For me, I am seeing a slight lack of rebound and compression damping. I really feel it now with some miles under my belt on the Ikon rear shocks. The factory settings are well matched, but tuned with a bias toward comfort.

I have been meaning to research what the standard fork oil viscosity is and playing around with that. I just haven't remembered to see if that info is in the service manual. Most likely, it'll be 5 wt oil, so bumping it up to 7.5 might settle the front end and reduce brake dive without adversely affecting small bump compliance.

lash, could you please explain how your 2104 CB1100 is "a bit of a cross between the US standard and deluxe"? I thought it was a standard in a different colour?

I'm guessing the addition of ABS to the Standard, which is not available in the US with ABS makes it sort of an in-betweener.

I think it should be called the CB1100Eh in the Canadian market.

the_undecider,

I would rethink your spring choice before going to a heavier weight fork oil. At 230lb, you and I are in the same weight class...

The Honda OEM springs are progressive type and only rated at 0.75 kg/mm (according to the Race Tech web site).
Which may be good enough for a 150lb rider that's not going to be pushing the bikes suspension beyond the posted speed limits

My theory on suspension is this: Get the correct spring rating for your weight class (you and the bike) and use a lighter weight fork oil to allow the forks to work more quickly.

Fork weight will do nothing for fork dive. I prefer the Race Tech springs because they linear type. Progressive type springs are more prone to fork dive by nature and are harder to adjust for this with dampening adjustments (fork oil weight).

While I'm not a suspension expert, I have learned a lot along the way and have made both good and bad decisions about suspension set ups.
Bottom line, your suspension choices are up to you and your style of riding.

TINK

[IndianRider_imp]

At 195 lbs with gear , I started out with a lot of preload almost full preload after reading comments on how softly spring the forks were .. To my surprise as I kept backing out the preload and front started getting a lot better and and better much better at about 3 rings visible without excessive brake dive .. rears are in second soft position ..

I may try the lighter weight fluid a 5wt or 7wt to see if damping improves instead of switching out the springs first for a step by step analysis ..

Excellent write up on fork servicing TINK

[Aussieflyer]

Hey IndianRider, you and I are similar weights and I share your views about the suspension feeling better when the preload is reduced with faster dampening settings. Observations are that it's more 'planted' and less affected by rough surfaces when cornering at 'sane' speeds. Downside is that ground clearance is compromised and can drag few bits from time to time. I think Tink summed it rather well. If more spirited / track riding is the main purpose I would definitely want to explore springs and revalving.

[gtmn_imp]

first ride on th cb for a few months
I will tell you that the new suspension is awesome

this is my third bike I did suspension swaps to and here is what I can tell you
front, the problem is that it is a dampener rod style fork but it can be fixed
the firmer springs will hold your weight up but does nothing for the valving of said fork
the only valveing in it is the damper rod and its holes at the bottom
what the holes do is bleed the fluid. as the fork compresses it pushes fuid through, at a slow speed the fork seems very soft because it is easy for the fluid to flow and a harder hit the fluid tries to flow more, through the same hole and it cannot so the fork compresses harder becoming very harsh on a hard hit
so you need to fix the entire internals if you really want a change
Traxxion Dynamics damper kit gives you the spring the spacer the gold valve and the damper rod and the fluid, so everthing you need
and it works awesome it will change your life
call Dan and he will set up a kit for you as its diff for each of us

now on the rear you just need some shocks that have some rebound to them
weather you go all out or cheap is up to you but you need rebound
I went with progressive 490s that fit the older thruxton

if you really want to ride the bike do the suspension
if you just ride around town for leisure then leave it, its pretty soft

if you want even cooler front end you can go Traxxion ak20s. it is a cartridge kit and fully adjustable
I have sent a lot of people to Dan at traxxion with great results don't be afraid to call him hes great
nope I don't work for them just spend a lot of money with them