Suspension mods?

[neattoes3000]

Hey SVers

Who out there has done some stuff to there suspension? What did you all do? Is there anything that can be done cheap. I have heard about new front springs, and emulaters, but all that shit is expensive. Is there anything I can do to stop the bike from diving under hard braking. Have any of you done the rear shock? Ive heard a GSXR schok fits with some work, and I'll need a new spring for my weight. How much does all that cost? Less than Fox twin clicker, Penske or Ohlins? I hope so because I know that shit is really expensive. Any cheap fixes to the suspension? Thanks.

Craig

[buymenow00]

20 wt. oil and PVC spacers...a difference you can feel I'm told! All for about $10.00!!

[Burst]

Put 15-20wt oil in the forks.... You could also put longer spacers in there as well. Be careful not to make them too long. Leigh did and it took away ALL of the sag. Even with me sitting on the bike pushing all of my weight on the forks they still did not compress.
Anything UNDER a half inch should be ok though.

As for the rear, if you do get a gixxer shock, plan on spending around $200. It's about $50 for the used shock, then another $150 to have it re-valved and re-sprung. No it's not cheap, but when your alternative is a $600 penske I think the choice is clear.

[Burst]

I am gonna get you mike...........!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
?????????????????????????????????????????????????? ????????????????????????????@@@@@@@@####(*#(*&)^%(*@&#$^!@*($(*#&*#@&%^*

[neattoes3000]

IS anyone going to have a fork party, so we can all benefit from better front ends?

Craig

[Burst]

ummm, there's already been two.....
and one mini one at my place. Just Leigh and I.
She did spacers on her bike and I did the 15wt oil on mine.

[neattoes3000]

You shouldn't need an excuse to have a party, and working on bikes should make it even better....Just a thought...

Craig

[buymenow00]

...all the wimmen love me!! heeheeheeheehee.......

[chukiechz]

I hear all this negative stuff about the front end suspenion being bad on our bikes. I guess Im too new to notice this, can someone explain what the problems are? Im a light rider (130 pounds) too , so maybe it doesnt affect me as much

[Kurt'sSV]

I never really knew that our suspension was bad until all these people told me it was.
Anyways Suzuki just put cheap suspension on the SV to help keep the cost down. So everything about our shock and forks is bad compared to the GSX-R's. But don't worry about it now because you probably are not riding very fast yet and you don't weigh much.

[bwarbiany]

At your weight though, you're about perfect for the stock springs... You could do well to toss a little 15wt oil in the forks, and maybe emulators when you get good enough to know the difference, but I (at twice your weight) rode for over 10,000 miles on the stock suspension, and it never bothered me...

Brad

[calversv]

the stock front suspension isn't noticeable when you're a novice. but once you start riding faster and more intuned to your bike's performance, heavier fork oil is the cheapest way to harden the front end. most expensive is to swap them with gsxr forks, but you'll have to get a totally new frond end - rims, clipons and all.

I'm planning on getting my forks revalved and resprung - a friend who races and another who had an sv recommended ppsracing.com in anaheim for the front adjustment. I contacted pps and they quoted me $99 for new springs and $150 for a revalve. pps will modify the front based on your weight and riding style. my friends say there's a huge difference with their bikes after getting them done at pps - something to think about in the future.

[Stinky]

When I first got my bike the only thing bad about the front end that I noticed was the diving under braking. I didn't know how the front should feel while leaned over at that time. So I changed the fork oil to 20wt and it helped the dive. Then later, I got the right springs for my weight and it made a huge difference. It made the ride smoother, and the front end felt planted in the turns. It was night and day.

[illustr8dman]

What about mods for the '03? I would assume the newer model Gsxr 600 shock could be used, but are the forks the same as previous years?:confused:
On a side note this guy seems to have gsxr rear shock comming out the wazoo on ebay : http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&category=10368&item=2422103551

[stingray]

03 sixxer forks can be used.

04 has the same type of radial inverted forks as the new 1k does though i'm hoping they'll retain the showa internals.

[neattoes3000]

I did the best mod possible! I got a new real sport bike that has excellent suspension. The best thing is that you can trail brake very deep into corners without the bike wanting to run wide. One thing I get on the new bike is that the SVS never did was rear wheel hop. When you down shift too much the rear chatters. I can see why the ZX6RR comes with a slipper clutch. I could use it. Just get a knew bike!

Craig

[illustr8dman]

Um.... I don't think that's a Mod. A mod is money handoverfist in an effort to correct a perceived imperfection. You just got a new toy.:p I got a new toy that I want to take the bouce out of.:)

[Golden_Eternity]

Originally posted by neattoes3000
One thing I get on the new bike is that the SVS never did was rear wheel hop. When you down shift too much the rear chatters.

I've stepped my rear wheel out with the clutch... I know other people have too (ersigh was the first person I saw mention it).

[gregbenner]

I added the fork oil, Progressive springs, an Ohlins rear shock, a pipe and Sportec tires. Plus, I still get to ride a V twin which actually has torque, is comfortable and reliable.:D

I didn't like my I4 600cc "real sport bike" though.:sad:

Finally, since I'm not that fast, I don't feel like a "wannabe racer":cool:

jmho, greg

[trakshun]

I just got a 2001 Sv650s that is completely stock (only 2,000 mis.) . I want to set it up for track days. Tentatively planning on Race Tech springs (spring rate?) and emulator up front and Penske 8981 in the rear. I want to get the suspension sorted before dealing with power. Any suggestions?

[linp]

Racetech Springs/Emulator Thread:
http://www.socalsvriders.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=898

Racetech Emulators Install and Settings Thread:
http://www.socalsvriders.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=1017

Racetech's website:
http://www.racetech.com/evalving/English/mctype.asp

Penske Shock (and other shocks) Thread:
http://www.socalsvriders.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3097

[Nanduccio]

Originally posted by neattoes3000
I did the best mod possible! I got a new real sport bike that has excellent suspension. The best thing is that you can trail brake very deep into corners without the bike wanting to run wide. One thing I get on the new bike is that the SVS never did was rear wheel hop. When you down shift too much the rear chatters. I can see why the ZX6RR comes with a slipper clutch. I could use it. Just get a knew bike!

Craig

I did a really good mod, too. I adjusted my stock suspension on my SVS.

The key to the SV's "crappy" stock suspension is to keep most of the bike's weight on the front wheel by dialing up rear spring preload, keeping the front around factory setting of 6 (soft).

I'm about 190 lbs. I'm cranked up to 6 on the back, throwing most of the weight forward. You also will notice just about all of the dive is eliminated this way, because the weight is already forward...

I also kept my nice V-Twin, with as much torque (pull) as your bike, except mine is actually useable because it pulls hard off idle. My bike is also fun to ride around, EVERYWHERE, and not just on a racetrack. As far as the rear chattering, learn to match your rpm's to your gearing with some throttle control.

I've ridden I-4 600's. They're boring. You can keep it. What's with that whirzzzz-whirzzz sound from your pipe, anyway?:D

[NukleoN]

Heh Nanduccio...funny stuff...

Sheesh...today I upgraded to 30 wt. fork oil. The bike doesn't dive much at all on braking...it feels pretty good but it will take some time to get used to. Since I weigh 150 lbs., I am wondering if I went overboard on the fork oil wt.? The guys at Hare Racing (one of them an SV owner) swore that 30 wt. was an appropriate amount, even for my light weight. Not sure yet...I haven't tested it, but I noticed it was diving a lot before...now, the bike just stays linear...seems much more stable on the brakes..is that how it is supposed to be? How do I know if I don't have enough weight over the front tire? (Besides lowsiding, heh).

[twf]

30w sounds right.we have best resoults with that weight oil.
if you are getting wide exiting corners you dont have enough weight on front.

[Kurt'sSV]

I have 30 wt. in my bike too and I think it's Grrrrrrrrreat!

[TomSV650]

I've heard and read that a well set-up stock front end with springs and emulators is better than a stock 750 front end. The 750 forks are only better only when they also get springs and a re-valve.

I think my suspension sucks ass, even though it's got springs and emulators in it, i've been thinking about sending it out to a suspension shop like Linderman to have it set up better.

I could probably pickup some 750 forks for around $500 but i'm not so sure if it's worth the cost and hassle. I could use some advice on this. Thanks!

[weegaz22]

if you only use the sv on the street then get the original forks resprung and revalved, you will only notice the difference of the usd forks on the track and even then you will need to get them modified to get the best from them

[twf]

yes,stock forks can be made to work good.but you may still have some problems on realy bumpy road depending how you ride.
you may also have to do it more than once to get what you like.

[JRCOYNER]

Traxxion Dynamics in GA. They did fork springs, oil and emulators for just under $500. Max the owner is a great guy and will talk to you about your needs. The only draw back is the shipping and waiting for the forks to come back. It wasn't even two weeks to ship mine and get them back. I just bolted them back on and they were so sweet. Reminded me of my Gixxer front end a lot. I am getting a "bargain" Penske shock they offer as well. I don't do any serious racing so it should suffice nicely. I hear that Racetech springs on their site may be the wrong ones for your weight as well. Be careful if you chose that route.

[CDNSV650S]

It seems that the 03 SV shock is shorter than on the older models. I measured mine fully extended at 12 7/8" centre to centre.

Therefore if any 03 owners out there are looking to swap in a GSXR shock you need to make sure you get the 01-03 models as they seem to be the same length.

I just bought a brand new 02 GSXR750 shock for $29 on ebay so I'll let you know how it fits when I get it.

[trakshun]

I ended up doing the Race Tech springs and cartridge emulators and 2002 preload caps on the front (best part of a day) and then a Penske rear shock. Did my first SV track day last week and the SV is all I hoped it would be! I was afraid that faster bikes would smoke me on the long straight aways but I was coming out of the corners so much faster than most that they never caught me. In one 20 minute session I lapped a guy on a "real sport bike" (ZX-6R 636) twice. Was amazed that I did a faster lap time than I had previously on a CBR600F4i or a track set up Buell.

Next mod is Galfer SS lines to firm up the front brakes

[deno]

so did you feel more comfortable with the SV's modified suspension compared to the f4i?

Just wondering b/c I essentially have the same set up as you. I'm trying to dial it in before I head off to back to back days at SOW (woohoo).

[trakshun]

I set my sag at 25 mm and had the compression damping 1 click soft from the middle(weight 160). For me the suspension was every bit as good as the F4i.

I think the real reason I ended up with faster lap times is the lower powered SV required me to really focus on fundamentals such as corner entry speeds, turn entry points, lines, application of throttle thru the turns, corner exits, etc. I would guess I was averaging 5 to 10 mph faster coming out of corners into the fast parts than usual.

And I was making passes on parts of the track I had never passed on before because I couldn't count on throttle down the straightaway to pass.

[TomSV650]

Thanks for the info gents. I've been reading alot on SVrider and this site and i'm not convinced that the 750 forks are worth the $$$ unless your really a track addict or racer. $500+ for the forks and another $450-500 for springs and a re-valve just sounds a little excessive. I'll probably just send my forks into Linderman or Traxxis.

[twf]

sounds like $1000 does it.
dont forget that $450-500 for revalve and springs you will spend anyway.to do stock forks.you will say it does not cost $450-500 to do stock forks.well you dont have to pay that much for gsxr either.if you do springs and oil only.if you do stock forks right way it is same price.
so, it is $500 difference(from your post)between those.
no,I am not saying you should get gsxr forks.I already said stock ones can be made to work fine.

[SV Crazy RJ]

Some of you may know I just removed my full race suspension from my bike and replaced it with stock.:sad: I have a custom 5.5 inch rear wheel and noticed the difficulty in cornering after that modification.:rolleyes: But I said to myself, no worries, I'll just muscle it, and counter steer while cornering. This is not a usual characteristic of the SV. Anyways, after riding my bike today (with my stock suspension) I noticed the usual flickability of the bike return!:eek: The bike felt a lot smoother and dipped into turns nicely!:confused: And I still have my 5.5 rear wheel on!I used to have an ohlins rear and fully worked up racetech fronts! Aren't I supposed to be handling better with the race suspension other than the stock! Can someone please explain this to me!!!

[cyclox]

could be that the ride height of the ohlins is different from that of the stock shock. If the ohlins causes the rear to ride lower that the stock, the bike won't turn as quickly. Did you have the preload correctly set on the ohlins?

[SV Crazy RJ]

Yes, I had the suspension professionally set up. The ohlins raised the rear more than stock! Do you guy think it has something to do with the custom 5.5 wheel? Cuz I got my shock and wheel at the same time and the first time I rode when I got it, was the track, and I hated it!!!:rolleyes: I plan to ride it again this weekend and really push myself, but I am kinda scared because it is all stock suspension and I weigh about 190. Do you think that is a good idea?:confused:

[GetnJgyWitit]

Originally posted by SV Crazy RJ
Yes, I had the suspension professionally set up. The ohlins raised the rear more than stock! Do you guy think it has something to do with the custom 5.5 wheel? Cuz I got my shock and wheel at the same time and the first time I rode when I got it, was the track, and I hated it!!!:rolleyes: I plan to ride it again this weekend and really push myself, but I am kinda scared because it is all stock suspension and I weigh about 190. Do you think that is a good idea?:confused:

Just ride with in your's and the bikes limits. If you start to push it, the bike will tell you. Just be careful.

[SV Crazy RJ]

That's true, I'll let my bike do the talking. But, I still don't know why it feels like it is handling better! I took, maybe, 3 turns at a good speed yesterday and it felt so smooth! Does anybody know why. I'm even having second thoughts about selling my wheels and my bike! Can anybody explain this to me?:confused:

[BluBallz]

now now, we cant have second thoughts about the the wheels ;) jk... i'd say take it easy, i know a lot of people getting ready to sell their bikes and get crazy and end up trashing the thing, and another big reason for people crashing i think is they dont let themselves get a chance to know the way their new mods make their bike react. IE... your going through a sweet turn, decrease in the radius, still think your comming in too hot, you give a slight tap on the rear brake,which on the way your bike was set up would slow you and keep you at a decent angle with no traction problems, while on the stock sv, a small tap will send you sliding into a gaurd rail. you have to think differently... and give your mind a chance to get used to the way your bike acts now... *** sorry for rambling ***

[SV Crazy RJ]

You weren't rambling, I love getiing info. I'm still selling my wheels but we should go for a ride on Telegraph before I do. Lets try to go sometime real soon. I'm also thinking of planning one last ride before I leave but this weekend is all booked up for me, and it's also my last weekend here! I guess I won't push it too hard, I think I'll just enjoy my ride with my new stock suspension, that feels great!:eek:

[Doctor Steve]

WOW!! What a difference springs and shocks make!!! What I had thought as OK to good doesn't even compare to the new suspension parts. I almost bought a new exhaust system, boy am I happy I spent it on suspension gear. HUGE difference........... Now about that exhaust - Hmmmm.:D

[Tillers_Rule]

Cool, post pics:monkey:

[y-zumi]

Hi all y-zumi here new to this site but know some of you any how...have a question...
just got a 2002 sv and was told that I cant really adjust the suspension unless i modify the rear shock...I was told that a gsrx rear shock 96-99 will work, but I have a friend whos got a 2001 will that work?
What kind of changes will I see in the bike?
Also have some race tec front springs but was also told that because if my weight I wouldn't need them...sugjestions on the best suspension mods. for me??? 5'3 115 lbs.
xoxo zumi:)

[CaliSVs]

ooh, I forgot to mention this morning about lowering the bike with dogbones or something of the sort - gives a type of "adjustment" using the stock (or maybe even gsxr?) shock

[NukleoN]

Hey Zumi,

If you're 5'3, 115, you're wasting your time with springs..you don't need them! You should get some 10 w oil tho...that might help. I'm 150 and I have 15 wt. oil...the Racetech springs would have been too stiff..I actually bought a pair then had to sell them to another rider.

Go with 10wt. fork oil..you'll be glad you did. 15wt. max! Welcome to the board.

[TFK_in_Mass]

The suspension, stock, is set-up for a rider who weighs 150 lbs. and does not really push it. The stock forks are still really mushy though, which is actually pretty dangerous because you get too much diving under braking.

Ramping up the pre-load on the shock and a 10wt, possibly 15wt. fork oil would be all you'd really need.

If you made the suspension too stiff it would bounce over inconsistencies in the road surface, and that would be bad if this occurred in a turn.

You will find the bike feels a little harsher, but way more planted, especially in the turns. The bike will communicate to you better what it's wheels are doing. Indirectly, your brakes will also feel crisper.

It's a good thing all around.

[BioTek]

Originally posted by NukleoN

You should get some 10 w oil tho...that might help. I'm 150 and I have 15 wt. oil

My SV manual and Haynes Service manual states that 10w fork oil is the stock oil on an '02 anyways.
I too went to 15w and it made a large difference, most noticably when braking as it feels like I can brake without loosing too much energy with the forks loading up and diving.

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by S.D.SV
My SV manual and Haynes Service manual states that 10w fork oil is the stock oil on an '02 anyways.


Really? That's the first I've heard of there being 10wt in '02s as aposed to 5wt. I'll have to look at my brother's manual (not that I don't believe you or anything)

[Q]

If you put a GSXR shock on the SV, doesn't it raise the rear?
Wouldn' t that kind of hinder what Zumi is trying to do here?

Zumi, check your PM.

[rb643]

Y-Zumi,

Are you planning to mod your suspension just to lower your bike? If so, I would suggest just having your seat shaved down. I know Nukleon's done it and it helped him a lot. ;)

Welcome to the site!

[BioTek]

Originally posted by Kurt'sSV
Really? That's the first I've heard of there being 10wt in '02s as aposed to 5wt.

I wrongly thought the Owners Manual had the info coz it doesn't, the Haynes Manual does state 10w as stock oil tho.

[Slaughter]

The Gixxer shock actually sets the riding position about right by raising the rear about 3/4 inch. Maybe not as comfy for a long putt but definitely better handling!

Re-stating again what the others have - if you shave down the HUGE amount of padding on the seat, you can get almost 2 inches of inseam back. Padding has to be almost 4 inches thick in the middle.

[y-zumi]

Hey Thanks for the info. all. I am gonna shave the seat because the corbin gel is too wide for my bum, and I thought that the GSXR rear shock was supposed to lower it...isn't it adjustable??

[twf]

srad gsxr shock will raise it and newer will lower it.neither is adjustable.

[y-zumi]

Hey all got the GSXR shock today...2001 model...supposed to lower it a bit I know that I need new ...rear set plates...dont know...to readjust the rear sets? Do I need anything else???
Zumi

[GetnJgyWitit]

I might want to raise your fork tubes in your triples so the bike sits even. Zoran what do yo think?

[twf]

yes,lower front as much you can.
better option would be to have rear at stock hight,lower front and shave seat.

[y-zumi]

hum, well I ve got the shock, and race tech springs already, a buddie of mine was tellin me that if i went with a 6 or 7 w oil they wouldnt be too stiff what do you guys think?

[twf]

oil does not control stiffnest,just damping.
spring is what makes it stiff or soft.

[TacoBoy]

Hi all --

I just bought an '03 SV1000S in Prague (Czech republic) last September after not having a real bike for over 12 years.

I used to be an aggressive canyon blaster in my youth but am trying to slow things down a bit in my old age. Nonetheless, though I LOVE the bike's motor, I am not wildly happy with the handling.

Part of that is my own fault, I suspect: I didn't like the riding position so I switched the clip-ons and the triple clamp, thus effectively de-raking the bike. Have reset the sag etc. in an effort to compensate but still find the bike a bit squirrely. Any thoughts anyone? (Am running Dunlop 208's)

Also, I really want some decent frame sliders and a perkier exhaust note (I don't kid myself that I need more power). any thoughts on that?

Any help much appreciated!

[chrdog]

the stock handling is what most people complain about on the sv. the first thing i did was upgrade mine with a penske in the rear and racetech springs up front both set for my weight. made a HUGE difference.

as far as race cans go, most of em sound pretty much the same. theres a guy on this board that has a website that has the sounds of various cans. for sliders, id get ahold of a guy o nthis board named 'motosliders'. ask him if his sliders fit 1000's. whatever you get, make sure it sticks out farther than that damn radiator...trust me on this:mad:

how did you end up in the czech republic anyways?

also, this thread will be merged in 5...4....3....2....

[TacoBoy]

Thanks for the tips - much appreciated. also nice to know I'm not alone out there (or here - for thhat matter where most people assume my poor Czech means I'm an idiot and that all Americans aree spoiled brats who complain ceaselessly... )

was in Business School in 1992 and spent a summer working in what was then Czechoslovakia. Fell in love with the place and the region. Stupidly went home to finifh degree, couldn't get anyone to pay my way back here for a cushy job, ended up going on a long and torteous detour for 10 years (including 7 in Russia) before finally returning 2 years ago. Junked my former careeer and started a chain of taco stands a la Baja Fresh with a buddy. Business is tiny but growing by leaps and bounds. I am now (comparatively) poor as dirt but loving life to the extreme! Have fallen in with a quasi-biker gang here that have adopted me ddespite my linguistic failings. Am even living with one of the cuter members now (she rides a Thundercat). Your story?

[chrdog]

the biggest reason i got into motorcycles was because the car i had no longer had me interested. i had originally bought it with the intention of doing some roadracing. but the amount of money to simply get your foot in the door was astronomical. so i decided to get me a bike.

started out on an old clucker honda XL650 enduro (i'd had bikes before, but never street bikes). after 4-5 months i decided to get a full on roadbike and ditch the dual sport. after an exhaustive amount of research, i set my heart on an sv. mostly because i was going to be commuting on her, and because she was cheap. havent looked back since. im in the process of buying a dirtbike as well (cr125) and doing trackdays on my sv. great bike, not only for beginners, but just overall, a bike you can keep for a long time.

the funny part is, ive probably spent alot more money buying gear, parts, etc, than i would have to get my car roadworthy. oh well, life is funny like that

[TacoBoy]

Bikes RULE!

However, your story about buying parts that have cumulatively cost you what it would have cost you to go car racing in the first place reminds me of the one mistake I will never make again: When I was a kid I had an old Yamaha Vision (550 V2). Great bike - but not for canyon blasting, which is what I was into. Because I couldn't afford (or didn't want to afford) a serious road bike, I ended up incrementally pouring money into the Vision. The (predictable) result: after 2 years I had spent more cash tricking out a perfectly good bike that was STILL not a road racer than I would have if I'd just bought a slightly trashed FJ600 - which of course would have suited my purposes better.

SO now I'm trying "to love the bike I'm with" and work with the bike in stock form before throwing more money and time at an SV in an effort to transform it into a pure sport bike.

[NukleoN]

Y-Zumi,

Are you planning to mod your suspension just to lower your bike? If so, I would suggest just having your seat shaved down. I know Nukleon's done it and it helped him a lot.

Lowering the seat was the best mod I've made yet. :D Makes touching the ground oh so much easier. ;) Suzuki lowered the 2004 SV's a bit...I wonder if it had to do with all the seat mods they saw everyone doing?

[jroymcd]

ok so i am 230 lbs. i want to upgrade the susp. on my 03 but, im on a budget. what are the best mods for the money?

what should i do first

[Burst]

Originally posted by jroymcd
what should i do first

click the search button at the top of the page.... :D

[Monte]

Or, if scrolling up is too hard...
http://www.socalsvriders.org/forums/search.php

;)

[dodgy]

A used busa rear shock and shorter dogbones (to fix the ride height). I bought one on Ebay for $25, the spring rate is about 20% higher than stock and you don't need to revalve 'cause you haven't changed the spring :D
Heavier springs up front will help (around 0.85?) but the really cheap way is to cut the originals. Spring rate is determined by the strength of the wire, coil size and number of coils, so less coils means a stronger spring.
Add 15 weight oil too...
With a bit more budget, emulators are great :D

[mioro]

Does anyone know what other kind of forks fit on an '04 sv650s?
I bent my forks a week ago & I want to replace them. I think that the F4i fits but I'm not sure.

[Silver6]

Originally posted by chrdog
the stock handling is what most people complain about on the sv. the first thing i did was upgrade mine with a penske in the rear and racetech springs up front both set for my weight. made a HUGE difference.

as far as race cans go, most of em sound pretty much the same. theres a guy on this board that has a website that has the sounds of various cans. for sliders, id get ahold of a guy o nthis board named 'motosliders'. ask him if his sliders fit 1000's. whatever you get, make sure it sticks out farther than that damn radiator...trust me on this:mad:

how did you end up in the czech republic anyways?

also, this thread will be merged in 5...4....3....2....


How much did you pay for that Penske?

[GetnJgyWitit]

Originally posted by Silver6
How much did you pay for that Penske? http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2496086111&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT

this is the one I have, I need to have it rebuilt before I put it on. I'll let you know what I think!

[D.T.]

Anyone ever raise their forks in the triple clamps?
:confused:
I was thinking of doing this to help "quicken" the steering a little. Seems like my SVS is a little TOO stable. I was thinking of raising them 1/2" at first...

[twf]

Originally posted by mioro
Does anyone know what other kind of forks fit on an '04 sv650s?
I bent my forks a week ago & I want to replace them. I think that the F4i fits but I'm not sure.

I have set of 03's.there are some scratches on bottom of right lower leg from lowside but forks are straight.
for sale if interested.

[Silver6]

Originally posted by GetnJgyWitit
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2496086111&rd=1&sspagename=STRK%3AMEWA%3AIT

this is the one I have, I need to have it rebuilt before I put it on. I'll let you know what I think!


Thanks. Hope it works out well. Where are you sending it for rebuilding? Race Tech? GP Suspension? DIY?

[GetnJgyWitit]

Originally posted by Silver6
Thanks. Hope it works out well. Where are you sending it for rebuilding? Race Tech? GP Suspension? DIY?


sending it to Penske. I figured they would know what the hell they are doing. :D

[harbiho]

Originally posted by D.T.
Anyone ever raise their forks in the triple clamps?
:confused:
I was thinking of doing this to help "quicken" the steering a little. Seems like my SVS is a little TOO stable. I was thinking of raising them 1/2" at first...

If you searched the site a bit, you would've seen this thread:

http://www.socalsvriders.org/forums/showthread.php?threadid=961&highlight=lower

[sk8surf]

ok i was wondering if i could get some opinion on fork options. i am thinking of Traxxion Dynamics SV 650 "Drop-In" Damper Rod Kit, .9 spring, and 20 wt. oil. the kit includes the emulators. think this is a good idea? i am 160 w/o gear, and plan on ridding the track some but more in the canyons. or should i just go for it and replace the entire front end with gsxr 750 front end? i will also get better breaking with that set up but if i do not need to spend the extra time and money i would rather not. what are your thoughts? thanks. also what is a good option for the rear shock? i was thinking penske.

[soulofadra6o]

what's the cheapest upgrade u can do to the rear shock? i know penske and ohlins is money..but something better than the stock shock but wont cost me my soul

[PoopMonkey]

which is of a dragon

[DOC]

Originally posted by sk8surf
ok i was wondering if i could get some opinion on fork options. i am thinking of Traxxion Dynamics SV 650 "Drop-In" Damper Rod Kit, .9 spring, and 20 wt. oil. the kit includes the emulators. think this is a good idea? i am 160 w/o gear, and plan on ridding the track some but more in the canyons. or should i just go for it and replace the entire front end with gsxr 750 front end? i will also get better breaking with that set up but if i do not need to spend the extra time and money i would rather not. what are your thoughts? thanks. also what is a good option for the rear shock? i was thinking penske.
That's the setup that I'm going to get for my front end if I ever get the money saved up. In my opinion that will get great results for a minimal outlay of cash. Ultimately the gsxr front end would be the way to go but since I don't plan on doing any serious racing I really don't think it's worth the extra work and money
I will also be getting the Penske double from them. The triple would be nice but once again the budget just isn't there.
DOC
I think the .9 spring was recommended for my weight and I weigh 240# so that might be a little stiff for you.

[chrdog]

just fork out the money for a penske. well worth every cent. i mean if you have the money to buy a carbon can, save for a few months and get a penske. theres shock-swaps-a-plenty for the sv, none are worth it. if i WAS gonna do it, id prolly go with a taller shock like the 04 zx636.

[DOC]

Originally posted by soulofadra6o
what's the cheapest upgrade u can do to the rear shock? i know penske and ohlins is money..but something better than the stock shock but wont cost me my soul Works Performance. ($5-600)
DOC

[soulofadra6o]

a few things.

1. hey poopmonkey, that was funny haha

2. im worried about getting a taller shock cause i can barely reach the ground as it is, wont a taller shock make the bike higher?

3. what is the cost of a penske anyway..i dont want the best quality because it's not like im going to be racing competitively

4. i went broke buying the carbon can and i cant afford any splurging right now

[maxpower220]

I bought a 03 SV that was wrecked in the front. I replaced it with an 03 GSXR front end. It is an easy bolt up. It give the bike an overall adjustability that makes it great for the street and OK for the track. I put an 03 GSXR 1000 rear shock in with minimal cutting. Again, it is fully adjustable and I got it for $20 shipped from ebay. That guy said the bike had 550 miles on it. The whole front end cost me $450 shipped. That guy said the bike had less than 200 miles.
Now the SV is fully adjustable and a huge improvement over my friends stock SV.
Just a thought.

[soulofadra6o]

hmm i might look into gsxr forks and shock...not as good as a penske or other aftermarket of equal standing..but damn cheaper...maybe i can just get R1 forks or GSXR forks rather than the whole front end

[DOC]

Where are all these cheap low-mileage parts coming from? Makes me wonder if all these low-priced parts I keep hearing about are coming from a theft ring like the one that just got busted in NY. I really don't want to be supporting a bunch of scumbag criminals.
DOC

[PoopMonkey]

what about if you transplant your front end with a GSXR one... wouldn't you lose your speedometer functionality? Is there a way around this. I may be interested in this in the future as well.

[dietcrack]

well, you could always use one of those Sigma bicycle computers for the speedo.

[mojo mofo]

with the 1st gens you can just re-route the speedo to the rear wheel with a minimum amount of work. I think the 2nd gens are a bit more difficult

[DOC]

Originally posted by mojo mofo
I think the 2nd gens are a bit more difficult
It's on a thread somewhere. I was just reading about it the other day.
DOC

[PoopMonkey]

Originally posted by Grandpa
It's on a thread somewhere. I was just reading about it the other day.
DOC

Cool, Thanks. I will search for it.

[maxpower220]

In short, yes you lose the front end speedo from the sv, but you can use a gsxr version that operates from the output shaft of the tranny. I have not done this, but the info on how to do it is on the web.
Another popular fix is to use a high end bicycle speedo with a magnetic pickup. Cost @ $40.00.

[acer66]

it`s at the end of this post http://www.socalsvriders.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=10167&perpage=15&highlight=speedo&pagenumber=1
PoopMonkey

have a 96-99 gsxr rear shock for first gen and a busa shock for second gen for sale if somebody is interested

[PoopMonkey]

Thanks, acer!

[rwalterk]

:tongue: Ugh, anyone have any suggestions for beefing it up? I've tried adjusting the preload but that doesn't seem to to do much. What does that really do, anyway? I see some people talking about aftermarket cartridges for the front and using a Gixxer rear shock.

The one thing I don't want to do is blow a ton of dough, because I'm already a little tempted to just buy a 600 SS that already has a nice suspension setup. I'm getting new tires installed Saturday, so at least I'm getting rid of the crappy Mez4's.

[supark]

use the search function - you'll find a multitude of threads regarding this.

[svspete]

zx636 shock works well in the rear... oooh! I'm selling one! he hehe :D

[acer66]

96-99 GSRX shock works well* in the rear... oooh! I'm selling one! he he he :D


* with little tweaking ;)

[supark]

Originally posted by svspete
zx636 shock works well in the rear... oooh! I'm selling one! he hehe :D

Hey I'm looking for a 636 shock - how much you want for it?

Thanks,
Sung

[svspete]

Originally posted by supark
Hey I'm looking for a 636 shock - how much you want for it?

Thanks,
Sung

see for sale section...

[Kurt'sSV]

20 - 30wt oil in the forks helps. Like $7.95 for a liter bottle.

But yeah, use the search function and you'll find more reading material on this topic than you'll want.

[chrdog]

im surprised this thread hasnt got merged into the millions of threads we got on the subject already

[Kurt'sSV]

Originally posted by chrdog
im surprised this thread hasnt got merged into the millions of threads we got on the subject already

With linp not around on a regular basis, the rest of us are getting lazy. :p

[03SV1Ksrider]

Hola'
i have recently re geared my 1000 and also got a TRE. since then i have noticed that the suspension on my sv is a little too mushy...it wasnt so bad when it was stock but now it is more noticeable...i commute around 12k miles a year so id like the suspension to be a little forgiving. I can say most of my riding is highway but I also go for weekend rides to the rock shop etc. I have never adjusted my stock suspension and was wondering if n e one has a good set up?? i dont plan on changing n e suspension parts so utilizing my stock parts would be great!

[Manx]

After you put all that money into an exhaust, TRE, K&N, gearing - you don't want to swap out suspension components? :eek:

Anyhoo...I guess the best thing you can do is to drain the fork oil and replace it, perhaps with 15W or 20W. That will stiffen up the front. The rear is adjustable, so you should be able to set the sag and preload, which will help (though it was really the front that was the culprit on mine).

[twf]

Manx,
15 or 20W oil os not what you want to use in sv1000.it is catridge fork,not damping rod.
springs on those bike are weird looking progressive.replace them with linear springs for your weight.

[Kyoseki]

Originally posted by 03SV1Ksrider
Hola'
I have never adjusted my stock suspension and was wondering if n e one has a good set up??
How heavy are you?

[Manx]

Originally posted by twf
Manx,
15 or 20W oil os not what you want to use in sv1000.it is catridge fork,not damping rod.
springs on those bike are weird looking progressive.replace them with linear springs for your weight.

I replaced mine with .90kg Race-Tech straight-rate springs and 10W oil. However, he mentioned that he doesn't want to change components. What else can he do?

[03SV1Ksrider]

I weigh 155lbs. w/ mt gear on...

btw...have n e of ur guys' steering dampener ever loosen?? i noticed that mine started making a slight popping sound i checked it out...and the dampener was loose...is an after market dampener something i should invest in...i only go to track about 3 times a year..i havent had n e problems w. it the way it is

[twf]

Originally posted by Manx
I replaced mine with .90kg Race-Tech straight-rate springs and 10W oil. However, he mentioned that he doesn't want to change components. What else can he do?
not much.set sag and play with clickers.
put them all in middle of range and go from there.

[Hopwheels]

Hey everyone:

I have read through great information (about 3 or 4 hours so far, and it seems there's unending info on this topic) on improving the stock SV suspension.

I've experienced in the first few miles I've owned this bike, what I've read others have encountered when it comes to the stock set up. I'm also a pretty new rider overall, so my concern isn't speed and race performance, just general duty street performance. But, I could tell pretty quickly that the suspension will be a hinderance in my gaining confidence on this bike. Simply put, it feels unstable on rougher roads and various braking and accelerating conditions (a lot of that here in my neck of the woods).

I'm thinking of starting off with Race Tech springs (.85 kg/mm based on my 200lbs dry weight :) ) and 20wt. fork oil for the front, and the Ohlins 46DR shock (with a higher rated spring than the stock to fit my size).

I understand you gain ton of precision tuning with the addition of emulators, and higher-priced Ohlins or Penskes (just not sure I need it).

Based on what I've read, seems anything is an improvement over stock, I just want a good starting point. Not seeing track days in my future any time soon. Just want good stability and traction with a reasonable investment for the street (and eventually freeway) as I get better on this bike .

Thanks for any input.

Gary
Hopwheels

[illustr8dman]

just changing the fork oil makes a big differance!

[T140]

If your springing for an Ohlins-hey a pun, you might as well put emulators in the front while you are at it.

Raceinteach installed mine.

[Hopwheels]

Thanks guys. I'm thinking of doing the work myself, and the emulators install seemed a bit over my head with the additional hole drilling. Don't know, maybe not.

[centerline]

I just finished the emulator, spring, and oil thing on my 03' SV. I was worried at first about what I might be getting into - having decided to do it myself.

What I found is that it was really easy and straightforward. The single biggest trick is just to have the right tools. Do not attempt to get around this aspect of the project. Otherwise - go for it.

FYI - I put together a summary of my own experience. It was merged into the main emulator, spring thread located on this site.

[Hopwheels]

Thanks Centerline. I decided to give it a whirl. The fork springs and emulators are on their way. Went for the Traxxion Penske sport shock as well. From the continued reading here and elsewhere, shoud make all the difference. Thanks for all the help.

[SVNerd]

It would be cool if someone (moderator/admin ?) parked this thread where the rest of these inquiries are.

[Currently]

You just made possibly the best decision for riding your SV.

The front end is the weak point, the RTGV and damper rod modifications with heavier oil is the way to go. At your weight I would of chosen the .90 or even the .95 springs especially if you wear full gear. That Penske shock is totally upgradeable to the 8981 or 8987 if and when you want to spend more dough.

What you have there will increase your appreciation for what is a great machine with a lousy suspension to a great machine with a very good suspension!

And you have an excellent upgrade path!

[Hopwheels]

Cool. Good to know. That's the path I was hoping I was on.

[Knaapie]

Do you guys know if the 03+ fork caps fit the 99-02 model as well? :confused:

[twf]

no,they dont.

[J.Moto]

Originally posted by Knaapie
Do you guys know if the 03+ fork caps fit the 99-02 model as well? :confused:

02 had preload adjustable caps that will fit '99-'01 as well.

[Knaapie]

Originally posted by twf
no,they dont.
:( Thanks twf.

I thought I could sell them along with my stock damping rods if anyone would be interested. Oh well...

[dunc]

Still have an 06 and was wondering....everyone says to mod the suspension...i'm 205 lbs and was wondering if anyone had any advise aboud what sping rate and oil to put in the front...and what to do with the back ....hhhuuummmm?????

[Darth Lefty]

Go to the RaceTech website, they have an excellent calculator.

[racinteach]

spring rate for forks will be about .95...rear shock will have to have the preload jumped up a bit or 636 shock or gixxer shcok swap....

go with 20 wt oil for the front as well since your in there might as well do the emulators too...

[WillyLee]

I've an almost brand new '04 GSX-R rear shock that is an excellent replacement for the P.O.S. stock shock. It can be easily adjusted for your weight & riding style. It is an easy installation, but requires minor modification to the plastic battery box. Robert (aka "Racinteach") or you can install in an hour or so. Pvt. Message me if interested. Can be viewed on Ebay as item number 150019407933 Good Luck, Bill

[dunc]

How much work has to be done to the box???? I've heard some horror stories. Also, does it raise the rear end...cause i actually wouldn't mind that? Would you ship to canada?

[GetnJgyWitit]

There is a search function on this forum. You can find a ton of great info with your questions. These are the two threads you might be very interested in.

front suspension (http://www.socalsvriders.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=2248&highlight=fork+swap)

rear shock (http://www.socalsvriders.org/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=3097&perpage=15&highlight=GSXR%20shock&pagenumber=1)


Modding the battery box is easy. Only a douche bag can mess that up.


Prepair to be merged. ;)

[hchou]

Also depends on how much money you have to spend. Springs and oil are relatively cheap and simple to install for the forks. If you've got money to spend, go with a nice aftermarket rear shock.

[fuzzbutt]

Isn't 20 wt fork oil a little heavy? The stock valving was made for 5 wt, so the 20 wt viscosity should be really tough sucking through the orfices of the valving. Are you guys getting any rebound with this set up?

I don't think fork oil was made as an anti-dive mechanism????

Just wondering.....

[Kurt'sSV]

Don't worry about out. 1000's of peoples R&D says it works fine. People (me included) will race with 20-30wt. oil.

[racinteach]

you seen the size of the holes that oil flows through? if you want some control use 20 wt..unless your using emulators..then you can try 15 wt ...

[summitsix]

Racinteach, what do you think about F3 forks on the SV? Easily done? Thoughts?

[racinteach]

its' been done...and can be done fairly easy..have never ridden any so I don't know how they ride...