ROAD-RACE TECH - THE BASICS

Sorry, but it's true. The basic stuff is some of the most important. So let's review some of the key things that need checking in order to optimize suspension performance.

Steering head and swing arm bearings: I know, super basic, but if they are loose or worn, your suspension will never feel good, so humor me, and check them.

Inches: Stop using these. Millimeters are much easier to measure and calculate with.
 

Counting: I know basic huh? But if we are all on the same page it saves a lot of headache.  Clickers are counted from fully closed (commonly referred to as full hard, or FFH for short).  Completely close the clicker, by gently turning it clock wise in most cases, (some older WP PDS shocks being the exception), and then count out with the first click of any sort being one.

Preload is the only thing you measure the opposite way, winding it all the way off, then starting with zero, and counting actual millimeters of preload.

Fork Pinch bolts: It is critical that these are not over tightened, especially on the lower triple clamp. They will cause serious binding if they are over tight.

Axle pinch bolts: Same here, if these are over tightened they can bring all kinds of harshness back into your fork. Check the specifications.

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