A curve does not replace rider feedback, but it gives feedback a technical map.
Reading the axes
A damping curve plots force against shaft velocity. Low shaft speeds relate to chassis movements like braking, pitch and roll, while higher speeds relate to sharp bumps, roots, kerbs and landings.
What the shape means
Bleed, clickers and preload affect the early part of the curve, while shim stiffness, crossover design and piston flow shape the mid and high-speed regions. A smooth curve still has to match rider feedback and terrain.
Workshop checklist
- Label each curve with oil, temperature, shaft speed range and clicker position.
- Compare compression and rebound curves against the rider symptom being solved.
- Look for force changes in the relevant speed range instead of chasing peak force.
- Validate dyno direction with track notes before making another stack change.
Next step
Use the calculator for stack comparison, the handbook for deeper theory, or the workshop booking form when the bike needs service or valving work.