Done Suspension Work

[DeTuono]

There have been a few posts recently on suspension work. I've had my last three bikes (M900 monster; 996 and now the Tuono) re-worked for my not inconsiderable 100kg (220lb).

After Termis and the Aprilia race can (gotta love that V-twin music!) the suspension work has always been the best value $ spent on my bikes.

So it proved again. I used to find the Tuono a bit high in the front / low in the back. After reading some of the posts here I was tempted to drop the forks a few rings. Glad I didn't. With a new spring, and rear sag reduced to 35mm, the bike's feel has changed significantly. Opening the throttle out of bends no longer has the bike under-steering for the outside of the road or track. Now it holds the line and turns true. First few bends I found myself heading for the *inside* of the track, until I re-programmed my riding.

Also, the new shim stacks in the re-built forks and shock have improved damping out of sight. The bike is now every bit as smooth as my Ohlins-equipped Dukes used to be. Since the damping oil is now fully-synthetic, I see no reason why my "new" suspension shouldn't last as long as Ohlins too.

I asked for the bike to be set up for back road hooning. If I'd gone for a track set up, the bike would've been too hard for 95% of my riding. As it is, it's just about perfect, except for *really* bumpy roads, where no sportsbike is going to be at home.

Before blowing your dough on bling, consider getting your suspension re-worked. Mine was done by a Race Tech franchise here in Sydney, but any competent suspension shop should be able to do the same for you.

Nick (happy with suspension)

:cool:

[2pist]

I haven't felt the need to spend $ on suspension. The Mille is like an easy chair compared to my old CBR:D

[Manu]

Opening the throttle out of bends no longer has the bike under-steering for the outside of the road or track.

Same here Nick, even with my low 65 kg, I too could feel the bike understeer at corner exit. The Tuono's front is definitively too high out of the box IMO and I would recommend every owner to try it with a lower front (or higher rear). In my case 4-5 mm less front preload (+/- 2 more lines showing) was the easy fix and the turn-in is now perfect :)

[DeTuono]

Right you are Manu, ride height front to rear has a big effect on handling.

I should have mentioned the whole cost front and rear, including a new rear spring (fork springs were ok) was A$1,000, or about US$650.

Nick