So I have a ratty GS500 with a GSXR rear shock. Back end is jacked up probably 2" at the brake lamp, maybe 2.5"

I just installed .95kg/mm front springs. Preloaded so sag is probably 10mm. I weigh 180lb.

I dropped the front as much as possible by sliding the fork up until they hit the bars. But the front has to ride 1" higher than stock.(Yes, i am going to reduce preload next.)

I probably reduced the rake a bit statically, and a bit more when I am on it because both ends are relatively stiff. Not the droopy but GS that is stock.

But I rode the stock GS in the stable and was blown away how hard it is to turn at low speed. It blows my mind, but at low speed I can't think of anything but rake affecting the handling so much. It feels leaden by comparison.  Am I missing something?

Quote from: intergalactic on August 08, 2009, 06:54:56 PM
I probably reduced the rake a bit statically, and a bit more when I am on it because both ends are relatively stiff. Not the droopy but GS that is stock.
But I rode the stock GS in the stable and was blown away how hard it is to turn at low speed. It blows my mind, but at low speed I can't think of anything but rake affecting the handling so much. It feels leaden by comparison.  Am I missing something?

Wait, so you're saying that with the rear end raised up 2" and the front end dropped 1"... and you're wondering why it doesn't handle well?

I'm not really understanding what you're trying to say here... droopy? Please be as clear as possible when you're asking a question.


Lots of things affect handling, including suspension geometry, wheelbase, weight, bar leverage, and center of gravity. A lot depends on the rider too. The GS always handled quite well at low speeds for me. Maybe you're not riding it well at low speeds?

When I said I rode the stock GS in the stable to compare , it might not have been clear we have two at home. Mine is 2" higher in the rear with GSXR shock and 1" higher in the front with stiff springs so the front is dropped relative to the rear. Hers is stock.

I was complaining about stock handling.  It feels heavy and hard to turn at low speeds (parking lot speeds).

All the CMRA / WERA peeps were telling me to jack up the rear and drop the front for road racing to quicken the handling.

That said, I've got a properly sprung GS at near stock geometry, with regular bars on it again and it floors me how light and quick handling it is in comparison to my Ducati ST3, which isn't really a heavy bike.

cool, thanks. I think I am gonna jack the front end back up. Ground clearance isn't a bad thing. And I am commuting.