BMW K1600GTL Rider's Manual page 118

ics on both spring struts and the
6
spring mount and the spring rate
on the rear spring strut are ad-
116
justed on the basis of the rid-
ing mode that is then selected.
If the selected driving mode is
changed, the damping character-
istics on both spring struts and
the spring rate on the rear spring
strut are also adjusted. This al-
lows the suspension to be very
accurately adapted to all riding
conditions, even when the motor-
cycle is in motion.
The combination of spring
mount, suspension and spring
rate ensure that the suspension
z
geometry is always perfectly
adjusted.
The static normal position is
almost maintained even while
riding.
The different riding conditions
and load statuses are com-
pensated, so that the handling
of the motorcycle remains con-
stant.
It is possible to change the
spring rate electronically by
combining a conventional coil
spring and a plastic element
(Elastogran), the lateral expansion
of which can be restricted
electro-hydraulically using
a displaceable sleeve. The
more the sleeve encloses the
plastic element, the more the
expansion of the plastic element
is restricted, causing the spring
rate to increase. The maximum
spring rate is achieved when the
sleeve completely encloses the
plastic element and rests on the
steel spring. By the same token,
the spring rate decreases when
the sleeve allows the plastic
element to expand further.