EBR Performance - Suspension Setup

Various Tracks: In our experience with racing, we have found that the different tracks may require slightly different settings.

For hard pack to intermediate type tracks (square edge type bumps): One way to determine the compression setting is to try to feel slight bottoming on the biggest jump or G-out section. This will determine if all the travel is being used for that particular track. If a slight bottoming is not felt it is to your advantage to soften the compression 1-2 clicks at a time. This will improve the small to medium bump ride.

For sand type tracks (no-square edged bumps): A little bit more low speed compression and rebound is needed compared to a hard packed track.  

To accomplish this start by adding 1-2 clicks of rebound and as the track gets rougher, 1-2 clicks of compression damping.

Supercross tracks usually produce slower piston speeds from the shock and forks than an outdoor track, with a much greater G-out load. This means less damping produced by the shock and forks in a situation that causes more or a bottoming load. Note: to be competitive on a true SX track, a SX only type fork and shock setting is needed to handle todays obstacles. Remember that SX only setting will not be suitable for an outdoor MX.

To compensate, you must adjust the compression stiffer on the shock and forks (anywhere from 2-6 clicks) and in some situations you may have to go stiffer on spring rates.

SUSPENSION TROUBLE SHOOTING

Bottoming: This is caused by lack of compression damping or too soft of a spring rate. Adjust the compression damping stiffer until bottoming is under control. If you run out of damping adjustment and bottoming is still a problem, a stiffer spring rate is needed. Also if the components have a lot of time on them, bottoming can be an indication that service is needed.

Headshake: is generally caused by too much compression in the forks. Soften 1-2 clicks. If you are a light rider for the size of bike, softer springs are recommended. Also too much rebound can cause a "packing" situation where the damping holds the forks down in a stiffer part of the travel than is needed.

Back End Kicks Side to Side: Generally caused by too much compression. If bottoming isn't felt anywhere on the track, adjust the compression 1-2 clicks softer. Too much rebound will also cause this because it holds the back end down in a stiffer part of the travel which in turn makes it too stiff for the bumps it is hitting.

Bike Kicks Straight Up: When the back end is compressed deep into the travel by a bump and it kicks straight up, it is generally caused by too light of rebound damping. Slow rebound damping 1-2 clicks (clockwise).   It can also be caused by soft low speed compression, allowing it to use too much travel.