Ride Quality

Post by **12bar1** » Sun Oct 28, 2007 2:35 pm

We took our Roadsters out for a ride today and I was suprised how harsh the ride felt compared to my new KLR. The KLR is the first dual sport bike I have owned and was wondering if dual sport bikes in general have a little softer ride.

Post by **DJ Downunder** » Sun Oct 28, 2007 4:47 pm

The KLR is the first dual sport bike I have owned and was wondering if dual sport bikes in general have a little softer ride.

Yes..imo........They (BMW's) need to be stiffer due to the extra weight and being designed for road use.

Get on a motocross bike for a while and then the KLR will feel harsh...

DJ

allanj255 · Post by **allanj255** » Sun Oct 28, 2007 6:51 pm

Have you tried to adjust the preload and damping on your suspension?
I set my rear shocker pre-load 3 clicks of min. for solo, half way with light luggage and one click of max with a pillion. Obviously you may need different settings for your weight and riding style.

Post by **bad n ruin** » Sun Oct 28, 2007 6:57 pm

How old is the R? You may be due for a shock replacement/upgrade.

Post by **12bar1** » Sun Oct 28, 2007 8:08 pm

The bike is an 04 with 24K miles on the clock. I will give the preload & damping adjustment a try and see if that improves the ride.

Ves · Post by **Ves** » Sun Oct 28, 2007 10:08 pm

Even if your suspension is brand new you're not going to get the bump absorption capability of a dual sport or dirt bike because we just don't have the suspension travel that those bikes have. The more suspension travel you have the "softer" you can set it up; the more gradually the bump is absorbed and the less you feel it.

Post by **12bar1** » Fri Nov 02, 2007 5:14 pm

I changed the preload adjustment and damping and am much happier with the ride. Thanks for all the suggestions.