Suspension Theory - Buell X1 2002 Service Manual

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SUSPENSION THEORY

DEFINITIONS
Damping: Resistance to movement. Damping affects
●
how easily the suspension can move and limits oscilla-
tion of the system once movement has begun.
Compression: Suspension is compressed when the
●
wheel moves upward.
Rebound: The suspension is rebounding when it is mov-
●
ing back from being compressed.
Vehicle Sag: The amount the rear shock and fork
●
springs are compressed by the weight of the motorcycle.
Rider Sag: The amount the rear shock and fork springs
●
are compressed by the weight of the rider.
Preload: An adjustment made to the rear shock and fork
●
springs to limit vehicle sag and rider sag to a standard
percentage of total suspension travel. Proper preload
adjustment allows the suspension to absorb most bumps
without bottoming.
GENERAL
11 1
WARNING
Before evaluating and adjusting suspension settings,
check the motorcycle's tires. Tires must be in good con-
dition and properly inflated. Failure to check the tires
could result in death or serious injury.
See Figure 2-88. See Figure 2-89.
adjusts for compression and rebound damping and spring
preload.
See Figure 2-90. The front suspension adjusts for compres-
sion and rebound damping.
If the rear preload adjustment is correct, and you have the
rebound and compression damping set at the factory recom-
mended points, the motorcycle should handle and ride prop-
erly. If you are unhappy with these settings they can be
changed according to the following procedures.
NOTE
Evaluating and changing the rebound and compression
damping is a very subjective process. Many variables affect
motorcycle handling under different circumstances. Approach
all changes carefully and consult
2002 Buell X1: Chassis
WARNING
The rear suspension
Table 2-9.
b0850x2x
Figure 2-88. Shock Rebound Damping Adjustment
Compression
Adjuster Slotted
b00851x2x
Dial
Locknut
Preload Adjuster
Figure 2-89. Preload and Compression Damping
Adjustment
Rebound Adjuster
b0558xox
Figure 2-90. Preload and Compression Damping
Adjustment
2.22
Rebound Adjuster
Slotted Dial
Compression
Adjuster
2-55