After putting about 3000 on my 07 gs500f I have noticed thst the weakest link is the front fork. I am interested in getting new springs. I was hoping that some of you have already done this modifiacation and maybe have some advice for me. Which springs are going to be the best for commuting and mild aggressive riding(midnight neighborhood assault). Also should I have my shop do this mod or should I do it myself? I am pretty good with tools and have done some work on the bike myself already. looking forward to hearing from you thanks in advance.
james.
The front suspension is a definite must in terms of upgrading. There are two roads, straight rate springs such as race tech or sonic, or progressive springs. I've never used progressives but they are supposed to give you a more plush ride for every day riding. As the suspension compresses more and more the spring gets stiffer to avoid bottoming out. I had race techs in my gs forks and actually never rode on them. :laugh: I bought a kat f/e and just got some sonic springs. In terms of price progressives are cheaper at around $60, while sonics go for for $79 and race techs go for $89 from indysuperbikes.com.
Here are a few helpful links
http://cgi.stanford.edu/~sanjayd/gs500/Upgrades/FrontSprings (http://cgi.stanford.edu/~sanjayd/gs500/Upgrades/FrontSprings)
http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=25706.0 (http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=25706.0)
I think it is a job you are probably capable of, just follow the directions in the second link. Pretty easy.
I put in some Progressives last year... I like them! :icon_mrgreen:
Took about 2 h to do the full job. I didn't use the "lazy method"; I took off the forks and drained them properly.
I got Progressives and 15w fork oil.I am 200 pounds in my gear and they are great for the street.All the other aftermarket springs are bought specificly for your wieght with no passengers.If you will be riding with a passenger take this into account when deciding on a spring.Also beware that stiffing the front will make the rear feel weak and soft.I have a 95 Katana 750 rear shock.Try these links.If you need help installing springs just ask.
http://pantablo500.tripod.com/id12.html
http://pantablo500.tripod.com/id39.html
http://cgi.stanford.edu/~sanjayd/gs500/Upgrades/RearShock
I like my front spring upgrade as well.. I would say... A MUST!
I have the .85kg/m racetech springs and I daily drive on it 110 miles a day without fatigue.
I put in .90 Sonic Springs. One of the best mods I have done to the bike. I posted a while back about the install. Search the forum and you should find it. :thumb: