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Suspension Knowledge Centre
Learn motorcycle suspension basics, diagnose common problems and understand the engineering behind damping, shim stacks and suspension systems.
Suspension Basics
What is Rebound Damping?Rebound damping controls how quickly the suspension extends after being compressed.->What is Compression Damping?Compression damping controls how the fork or shock resists movement as it compresses.->What Does Oil Height Do?Fork oil height changes the trapped air volume and affects end-stroke progression.->What is Spring Preload?Spring preload changes installed spring force and sag position, not the spring rate itself.->
Suspension Problems
Fork Harsh on Small BumpsSmall-bump fork harshness can come from friction, oil condition, spring balance, compression damping or geometry.->Shock Packing DownA shock packs down when it does not recover fast enough between bumps.->Bottoming OutBottoming can come from spring rate, preload, oil height, compression damping or rider technique.->Front End PushFront-end push happens when the front tyre cannot hold the chosen line.->Rear Wheel SpinRear wheel spin is often a suspension traction problem as much as an engine or tyre problem.->
Suspension Engineering
How Shim Stacks WorkShim stacks control oil flow by flexing under pressure across the piston or valve face.->Base Valve vs Mid ValveBase valves and mid valves do different jobs inside a fork and must be tuned as a system.->Fluid Mechanics of SuspensionSuspension damping is built from oil flow, pressure differential, restriction and controlled flex.->Understanding Damping CurvesDamping curves show force versus velocity and help translate hardware changes into behavior.->Pressure Differential in Suspension SystemsPressure differential drives oil through valves, bleed paths and shim stacks.->
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