Honda 450X 2005 Owner's Manual & Competition Handbook page 88

Suspension
Rear Suspension Inspection
The swingarm is controlled by one hydraulic
shock absorber with an aluminum reservoir for
oil and nitrogen gas pressure. The gas pressure
in the reservoir is contained within a rubber
bladder.
The shock absorber's spring preload and damping
adjustments (compression and rebound) should
be adjusted for the rider's weight and track
conditions (page 126).
Do not attempt to disassemble, service, or
dispose of the damper; see your Honda dealer.
The instructions found in this owner's manual are
limited to adjustments of the shock assembly only.
• When your CRF is new, break it in for
approximately one hour with the standard
suspension settings before attempting to
adjust the rear suspension.
• Make all compression and rebound damping
adjustments in the specified increment or
turns described in pages 122 and 123.
(Adjusting two or more increments or turns at
a time may cause you to pass over the best
adjustment.) Test ride after each adjustment.
• If the rear suspension is too stiff/soft, adjust it
by turning all the compression and rebound
adjusters according to the procedures
described in page 123. After adjusting the
adjusters simultaneously, suspension may be
fine-tuned by turning one of the compression
and rebound damping adjusters in one click or
in 1/2 turn increments.
• If you have a problem finding an acceptable
adjustment, return to the standard position and
begin again.
84
Servicing Your Honda
1. Bounce the rear of the motorcycle up and down
and check for smooth suspension action.
2. Lift the subframe to the upright position (page
39).
3. Check for a broken or collapsed spring.
4. Check the shock absorber (1) for a bent shaft
or oil leaks.
(1)
(1) shock absorber
5. Push the rear wheel sideways to check for
worn or loose swingarm bearings. There
should be no movement. If there is, have the
bearings replaced by your Honda dealer.