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How to adjust the suspension on an '86 Vf500f?

3 posts Started 17 Feb 2011 Last recovered post 22 Feb 2011 Wayback Machine snapshot 4 Jun 2011

#1
I purchased a pristine '86 VF500f yesterday. This bike has more knobs, switches and air hoses on it's suspension that I have ever seen. Can someone tell me what these do and how to use them to dial in the front and rear suspension?
#2
The ones down by the brakes are for controlling dive during breaking.
The forks and shock use air pressure - very little air pressure to create extra cushion and make them function. You should be able to set these with a bicycle pump.
I don't have a manual here but I think it is less than 3 psi to fill each of them.
You'll have to post pics of your bike.
#3
The answer is - you can't (really). The TRAC system is bogus and actually does more harm than good. Keep that on #1 - most dive - and you'll be all set. Do not put any air in either the forks or shock. That just makes a bad suspension even worse!

Really the best thing to do is ride it and start saving for upgrades. It's truly amazing what a 500 with decent suspension can do.
End of thread · 3 posts recovered Wayback Machine snapshot 4 Jun 2011