The Basics of Motorcycle Suspension

For the most part, the inner workings of motorcycle suspension seem to be shrouded in a great deal of mystery. Although the spring element of the up and down motion is readily obvious, the magic that happens within and which truly defines the difference between good and not-so-good suspension tends to elude most riders. Having a basic understanding of these critical components is not only important, but is ultimately the path to your becoming a better and certainly more comfortable rider.

Motorcycle shocks (as well as the suspension element of forks) can be divided into two basic components. The spring whose simplified function is to carry the load as well as absorb the impact of bumps and other road imperfections and a damper that dissipates the energy created by the spring's compression and resulting extension (usually referred to as rebound).

• Springs
• Dampers
• Shock Preload Adjusters
• Shock Sag Adjustment