I've just gotten an 1100s 09. I really was expecting stiff but supple suspension... I find it to be harsh, it steps out mid corner at the slightest imperfection in road surface. There is little or no feel, not inspiring in the least, my 2001 m750 used to feel planted even with the shite it was fitted with. I need some help with this, who is the recommended man for the job please? I'm South/West Yorkshire. Al.
Hi Al, I had a standard 09 1100 and by chance discovered when taking the mrs on the back that the ride and handling improved no end with a 9 stone pillion. I then did my best to replicate the effect of some of the extra weight when riding on my own and found things much better. Might be worth taking a pillion out to see if you notice any improvements.
Her Ladyship is 9 stone, and I agree with what you say. However, I've not been on anything this quick for a long time and I'm 60 now. I need to feel confident in the bike before I start taking a passenger out. As it stands this suspension feels completely wooden and I know if i start to push a little bit I'll get bitten. Not in a good way!
First thing you need to do is have the forks serviced to change the oil which I suspect has never been done. There is plenty of advice on the forum so try and use the search function. The owner's manual will have the OE setting which might have been altered by the previous owner, easy to check and easy to change. Andy
It had new seals etc on it's last service. I don't think there is anything wrong, I just think it's badly setup. (STD)
Im no expert and am sure someone will be along to say I did things the wrong way but I softened the rear preload so when I got on my solo weight had a greater effect on the spring and at the same time made the ride less harsh and took some weight of the front. Or at least that is what I think happened. Anyway, it certainly seemed to work and is easy to do, I managed and I have the spannering ability of a tree sloth.
This guy is in Morley Leeds and is well thought of ! He will help you set up the bike to suit you style/weight etc http://www.alphasuspensionset-up.co.uk/
It's about 600 all in. This is what they sent me. TEL 01928 740531 EMAIL –[email protected] – www.maxtonsuspension.co.uk DUCATI 900 MONSTER FRONT The forks feell very notchy and harsh and kick off small bumps, this is because they have too much compression damping over small movements, however when you brake very hard you may be able to feel the forks bottom out, this is because there is not enough support in the compression damping over large movements. The other problem with the damping is there is not enough rebound damping which means when you let go of the brake the forks spring back at you and the bike does not turn into the corner as well as it should, this also causes the bike to run wide out of a corner. The springs inside the forks are actually too hard and we fit softer springs to suit your rider weight and also to suit what type of riding you do. The biggest improvement we carry out is revalving the cartridges of the forks increasing the rebound damping to control the forks maxtension, reducing the compression damping over small bumps to stop the forks kicking off small bumps and increasing it over large movements giving more support with the spring. The conversion costs £380.00 plus worn parts i.e. Seals £25.00 and Bushes £25.00. A service on the forks would cost £120.00 plus worn parts. ALL PRICES EXCLUDE V.A.T. They will do it in a day whist you wait, and then set up the sag etc for you.
I have an 1100S with Ohlins. I agree the ride is quite harsh - I am 10 stone and reckon the springs are too hard for me. I have backed off the preload front and rear and the front compression ( (I have all the settings written down but not to hand).
FANTASTIC. This exactly describes the issue! Thank you! I knew someone would know. I'll be able to ride to my limits and not the bikes. Thank you Jez
