When replacing the chain and rear sprocket today, I noticed for the first time that my suspension is set at *1* which according to my manual is the softest setting. I could also see that to set the suspension I would obviously need some special thingy, which of course I dont have.  Does anyone know about some other ( household )tool that works to set the suspension?

p.s. What setting is the most preferred setting for ca. 75Kg, not that aggressive rider?

Thanks,
Sunnar

If you have a tool kit under your seat (back by the taillight) it has the adjustment tool in it. Otherwise you can buy an adjustable spanner from the various bike shops or online sites fairly reasonably.

For a 75 KG rider I'd personally recommend somewhere between 4-6 but you'll have to experiment to see what works best for you.

I tip the scales at about 95 KG and 7 was barely enough preload but not nearly enough dampening (which is not adjustable on the stock shock). I upgraded my rear shock and it helped a lot.

Hope that helps.

Household tools, hm...dirft punch and hammer? Or, a spanner wrench as Black Snowman suggested.

Here's a video I made on how to adjust the rear suspension
http://www.sharebigfile.com/file/13827/GS500F-AdjRearSusp-23Jul06.avi.html
I read a ton of posts after having my own trouble with the spanner tool.  The trick here is not to use the spanner tool and instead use a crowbar.  DO NOT USE A PHILLIPS HEAD SCREWDRIVER.