Adventure Bike Rider

Its about the bike not me. Ive noticed the rear suspension on my xt660z seems to be softer now like its loosened up over nearly 2 years owning the bike. Is this normal? Also im going to be using it with some ard cases and rack so a bit more weight on the back end. Other than an after market shock is the simple solution to adjust the pre-load around a few more clicks? Ive never adjusted the suspension and I dont really know what im talking about.

Hi James..
well your a rather large chappy and no dowt the spring has weakened over time...adjusting the preload will help loads for sure...restoring some of the new ness.

but the real answer is get anew rear spring made to your weight and bike loading.ie touring weight etc..most bikes are made for 70 to 150 kg range...wilbers or others will do a spring for around 100 pounds..

I had a similar problem with my WR450. Sent the shock to Falcon shocks, Wareham, Dorset. Great service and willing to help. May be worth having a chat with them.

changing your luggage setup again!!! That must the third or fourth time

remove seat.
take out toolbag attached to tank.
remove hook like tool and push into the handle like part.
get on knees
look under bike on LHS
use hook like tool to rotate the ring on the top of the shock a couple of 'steps'
work backwards through the above steps
test ride bike

add or subtract clicks as needed. damping is non adjustable so don't waorry about that.
if you have money to burn buy a hagon shock and front springs

redbikejohn wrote:


Thanks, thats what I will do. Just had a look this evening and its only about one click onto the adjustments. Time for a bit of a change.

JimboF650 wrote:


Yes, I think you are probably right. Ive got a couple of overboard rucksacs that can act of throw overs and these ARD cases. Going to use ARD cases to Morocco... just because.