Rear Suspension Inspection - Honda CRF450R Owner's Manual

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 115).
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 page 112. (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 112. 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.
1. Bounce the rear of the motorcycle up and down
and check for smooth suspension action.
2. Remove the subframe (page 32).
3. Check for a broken or collapsed spring.
4. Check the shock (1) for a bent shaft or oil
leaks.
(1) rear 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.
(1)
Suspension
75
Servicing Your Honda