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VFR Discussion Group -> Race tech fork springs

12 posts Started 10 Jan 2005 Last recovered post 15 Apr 2005 Wayback Machine snapshot 25 Apr 2005

#1
I thought i would get feedback on those of you that have changed their front fork springs to race tech or ?
Things you would do differently if anything, i.e oil weight, spacer length, whatever.
I'm about ready to tackle this, and while i'm at it, replace the steering head bearings too with ALL BALLS. I have a definte however slight notch when bars are moved from center position.
Any thoughts or suggestions on this would be appreciated.
Thx in advance
Gary

#2
dude, Jan 10 2005, 07:01 PMI thought i would get feedback on those of you that have changed their front fork springs to race tech or ?
Things you would do differently if anything, i.e oil weight, spacer length, whatever.
I'm about ready to tackle this, and while i'm at it, replace the steering head bearings too with ALL BALLS. I have a definte however slight notch when bars are moved from center position.
Any thoughts or suggestions on this would be appreciated.
Thx in advance
Gary



I had a 1990 VFR that I installed the .90 kg/mm springs on. In my opinion it was way better than trying to adjust preload. Having a higher rate spring allows you to back off the preload without suffering from excessive front end dive during braking. Steering geometry is less affected too. Bike rides higher in the stroke as well so you don't have that stink bug feel. One note when you add heavier springs up front it puts more load on the rear so you will need to either crank up the preload or add a stiffer rear spring as well.
#3
OK I want to know what stink bug feel is?
#4
I choose the progressive spring route rather than linear. (Race Tech don't make progressive rate springs)

Only reason being I felt is was more inline with the VFR being a sports tourer and that my riding style varies so much, from single boy racer to commute to pillioning and touring.

Yes much better than the stock springs! (when I bought the bike I was told it had ohlins springs in it... bull it did!!), and now cannot bottom the springs simply by "oh phuck, oh gee, oh god, please stop, please stop" braking.

I don't think you could make a bad choce as long as you look at the style of riding you do and make an informed desicion.

:)
#5
HispanicSlammer, Apr 7 2005, 05:51 PMOK I want to know what stink bug feel is?



Not sure if you were just pulling the leg but... "stink bug" is when the front end sits so low that it feels like your ass end is sticking up in the air while just riding around. A posture the stinkbug takes during a defensive move.
If you were just kidding around then "duh" to me.
#6
I have .95 kg (I'm 205 lbs) Race Tech springs and gold valves in my 95. I don't have many miles on the setup yet, and the last time I rode was October so I'm having a little trouble quantifying the results.

Is it better? Yes, it's a more controlled ride. Definitely much less brake dive.

Is it worth the $370 I spent? Probably not. I'm having a little buyers remorse.

I do think the springs are worth the money though.
#7
I changed mine to 1.0kg springs (fat ass) and 5w oil over a year ago and I love it.
It soaks up bumps like it never did before, much more controlled, predictable and smooth ride.
At the same time, I lowered it front and rear 1" and installed my freebie Ohlins shock.
It all made a huge improvement on how it handles.
The springs are well worth the $100.
#8
Tejas, Apr 15 2005, 02:04 PM... and installed my freebie Ohlins shock.
It all made a huge improvement on how it handles.




What I wanna know is how you snagged a free Ohlins shock!! :thumbsup:
#9
Tejas, Apr 15 2005, 08:04 PMI changed mine to 1.0kg springs (fat ass) and 5w oil over a year ago and I love it.
The springs are well worth the $100.




I wish I had gone this route too.
#10
tyrroneous, Apr 15 2005, 02:17 PMWhat I wanna know is how you snagged a free Ohlins shock!!  :thumbsup:




I won it in a VFRD raffle, I was a lucky SOB that day! :)
#11
Tejas, Apr 15 2005, 08:04 PMI changed mine to 1.0kg springs (fat ass) and 5w oil over a year ago and I love it.





Hey Tejas, I was about to post a thread if anybody has installed 1.0 without revalving. I'm curious about the rebound action of your forks. With 1.0 springs and 5wt oil I would think the reboud would be way too fast and maybe even oceslate a little before it setteling in. Please comment. :thumbsup:
#12
No it doesn't oscillate at all, it seems more planted to the ground than it ever did when it was stock.
I just set the sag at 30 to 32 mm front and rear and it rides great, very smooth and stable, works great for my weight (225) and riding abilitys.
End of thread · 12 posts recovered Wayback Machine snapshot 25 Apr 2005