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arcticflipper
I've been looking into fork spring upgrades, and now after placing the order, and waiting for the last 2 weeks allready, now this comes back to me....

I was just been informed by the factory that they do not recommend the progressive springs any more for the CBR 1100 XX. The reason is that the bike is "riding very low" from the factory with the progressive springs.
The springs they are offering now are straight rate springs with either 9.0 Nmm or 9.5 Nmm rate.
The price is the same. I did talk to some people who have the new springs and they are happy with it. The bike is riding higher up and does not dive significantly when braking

Ok the order was for a progressive fork spring.

I don't have a clue as to what I'm reading here, so what I'm understanding now is that I will have the same type of spring as what I currently have in the XX, just with another name on it?

Is this correct?

Then WTF is the point of spending the USD ???

Bastards.....
99Birdman
Actually, I believe the factory spring is a progressive .89 spring. The Wilburs springs many of us bought in a previous group buy were linear (aka straight rate or non-progressive) .9 or 1.0 springs. When installing the new springs, you use a different amount and weight of oil than stock. I'm happy with my Wilburs .9 spring with 150mm air gap and 2.5wt oil but I only weigh about 175lbs.
arcticflipper
Shaaait I'm much lighter than that.... 65 KG's
donno the pounds there...

So the reply I got back from them is that then the same thing you guys bought, and is it still worth my while or should I rather go elswhere for the full progressive spring?

The guys were talking about the spring increasing the ride height?
Have you guys had anything like this?
99Birdman
65 kg = 143 lbs.

I'm ceretainly no suspension expert but,the general feeling, I believe, is that the XX is undersprung and overdampened as it comes from the factory. Any of the aftermarket springs with the proper oil amount and weight should give you an improvement. Most of the guys on here are considerably heavier than you so they noticed a big difference with the new springs. Helvet really seems to like the Hyperpro springs and I think they are progressive. I was tempted to run a little less oil and larger air gap since I am lighter than the board average but it seems to work well with the recommended 150mm air gap. If you go with the Wilburs, you might consider using slightly less oil at your weight.
99Birdman
BTW - I noticed no difference in ride height and my sag was right on at 30mm with the new springs and standard spacer.
arcticflipper
Was there a noticable handeling improvement, in other words is it still worth my while to then upgrade to these springs.

I have allready dropped the front by 1", but have not yet shimmed the rear.

I have 56 000 km on the clock, and have never touched the suspension - replacing oils, springs or anything.

I am able to drag a knee in corners currently, but would like to get a bit more stability when you pick the bike up out of a corner.

It sometimes waddles a bit out of the corner, and there is a bit of oversteering from the back, This might be due to the power being delivered so quickly to the rear, and the weight of the bike.
XXTi
Have you checked Jaws web site for fork springs? Look in the vendors section for a link.
Pete in PA
I've got HyperPro springs being shipped after talking to Doug in the US here.

Even with my weight of 300lbs. (136 kg) He says the progressive spring will be fine.

I'm installing over the winter and I'll let everyone know in the spring how it rides.
Helvet
QUOTE(arcticflipper)
I've been looking into fork spring upgrades, and now after placing the order, and waiting for the last 2 weeks allready, now this comes back to me....

I was just been informed by the factory that they do not recommend the progressive springs any more for the CBR 1100 XX. The reason is that the bike is "riding very low" from the factory with the progressive springs.
The springs they are offering now are straight rate springs with either 9.0 Nmm or 9.5 Nmm rate.
The price is the same. I did talk to some people who have the new springs and they are happy with it. The bike is riding higher up and does not dive significantly when braking

Ok the order was for a progressive fork spring.

I don't have a clue as to what I'm reading here, so what I'm understanding now is that I will have the same type of spring as what I currently have in the XX, just with another name on it?

Is this correct?

Then WTF is the point of spending the USD ???

Bastards.....

You got me really confused here.....
Did you try to buy progressive springs from Honda? What's the point of that? If they didn't get it right the first time, why do you think they will get it right this time?
Or did you try to buy progressive springs from a suspension-factory? Which one?
They will all tell you that they don't like the progressive springs, or that they don't make them anymore, because Hyperpro has a patend on fully progressive springs....
They still make them, and they work great! Especcially for a lighter rider, you can even drop the front a little more....
XXTi
QUOTE
They will all tell you that they don't like the progressive springs, or that they don't make them anymore, because Hyperpro har a patend on fully progressive springs....


How the hell can someone patent a progressive spring? They have been around and in common use in various applications for decades.
arcticflipper
OK so this is now the reply that I've received after a couple of days, and also a bit of research on my side.

I have to say that I weren't in the least bit impressed when i received the previous posted info from them.

The whole story began with a post regarding suspension upgrades.
The first thing every one on this site said was to upgrade the fork springs, and then also to lower the front with 1"

Great! was my first impression, until I started looking into what is available on the market, and shaaaaiiiiiiitttt there is just too damn many manufacturers. Great for lowering prices, shit for making a informed decision.

So I looked back on the forum and found that there was a group buy on Wilbers a while ago.

Contacted them, after getting the right measuremnet off another site, that was also posted on one of the many suspension threads.

Now Helvet has convinced me kinda that the progressive spring is the best thing since sliced cheese, or bread or both....
And yes Wilbers did have a progressive spring - the Hyper Pro spring that they resold for less than what I could get it from HyperPro USA, or Helvet

Asked them for a flowchart, and compared it to the flowchart on the HyperPro site, and presto - it matched - same spring!

Now I'm really happy, but still not too sure so I start asking the local guys here in South Africa, England, Germany, Australia ..... etc.

And I have to say that the majority of all manufaturers and riders and specialists came back with a reply that the progressive springs is not to be used in the XX.

Even blackbirdspares.co.uk gave me this advice.

Then I get feedback that Wilbers do not, or is not prepared to supply me with the progressive spring due to the reasons mentioned above, and now I'm really confused.

So I read that someone is installing the Hyper Pro Springs, and I know that Helvet and the guys in the Netherlands are using these, but the question will now be to all...

Please keep us up to date with the performance of these springs, and also how these stand up after a couple of months and also a year or two...


This is the reply that I now have received directly from Wilbers.

"I was assured by the technicians that the straight rate spring is the only correct change for this bike model, a progressive version is not satisfactory.
Wilbers is selling also Hyperpro springs and we know about the complains from the customers about Hyperpro products. Their steering dampers are excellent, but the spring policy is open for improvements."

I know that Helvet has mentioned that Wilbers and HyperPro has had a tiff of some sorts, but it seems like they are still selling the Hyper Pro stock.

I am aware that there will always be competition amongst companies, but the fact that after I spoke to and got emails back from over 300 people, and the majority did not like the Progressive spring setup surely does mean something.

I still aggree completely with the HyperPro explanation on the website, but would like to get some more actually tested feedback over a prolonged time period.

Unfortunately our ZAR Currency is very weak, and therfor I can't import both the linear and the progressive springs to test, so I will have to ask for help from people who allready have it installed, or is installing them soon. - Progressive springs.
Pete in PA
Recieved my HyperPro box already yesterday. Fast shipping!

I'll be doing the swap over the winter (we just got 8 in. of snow) so I won't have a ride report for a while.

I also wonder how they can patent a progressive spring.

http://www.progressivesuspension.com/ Has been selling them for years. It does bother me they don't have any springs for the XX, Why?

Makes me worry about the "don't use progressive springs on the XX" thing.

I went ahead with HyperPro based on Helvet and talking to Doug, hope I'll be happy.
rodantking
Add me to the confused list.
If it is about it being low how come no one is talking up about draging parts on the several suspension treads that have been passing the last month? Weight doesn't make any sence because W.C. posted he put them on his FJR which is 150 pounds more than the XX.
This is on my winter list so I will be watching close.
Redbird
I seriously doubt that the springs installed on Warchild's FJ are the same rate as the ones sold for the XX.

That said, it makes no sense to me that they sell the same spring to everyone (on an XX) regardless of weight. Do they even make any recommendations on pre-load or spacer length?
tomek
I just wanna mention one thing in this "proggresive " spring issue.
In case of the front fork,it is progressive anyway even with straight rate spring due to the air gap being compressed and acting like progressive spring .With progressive spring it just gets more ,,,,,,,,,,uhm,progressive.
If you increase air gap it gets less progressive and vice-versa.
Helvet
QUOTE(XXTi)
QUOTE
They will all tell you that they don't like the progressive springs, or that they don't make them anymore, because Hyperpro har a patend on fully progressive springs....


How the hell can someone patent a progressive spring? They have been around and in common use in various applications for decades.


OK guys, I'll try to explain this:
1. a linear spring. This is wound in such a way that the gap between each winding is the same. Both the top and bottom part can be wound tighter. This spring gives a certain pressure for every inch you press it extra. For instance, the first inch gives 1 kilogram pressure. The second inch gives another 1 kilogram, making 2 kilogramms. This way 10 inches (no dirty jokes here please) gives 10 kilograms pressure.
2. a progressive spring. Yes, these have been around for ages, however this is the biggest fake ever! What is commonly known as a progressive spring is NOT a progressive spring, it's just 2 linear springs on top of each other (in one spring ofcourse, not 2). In this case you have a weaker spring, and a softer spring. The tight wound is the soft part, the looser wound is the harder part. If you compress these springs, you will see that the softer part gets pressed first, untill it reaches a point where you have enough forces to compress the stiffer part of the spring. Usually the hardest you can compress the soft spring (that is untill the windings are very close together, or even touching) is the stage where the stiffer spring just starts to work.
For instance: the first 5 inches you get 5 kilograms of counterforce. After this the second spring starts, and this gives 2 kilograms per Inch. So, the sixt Inch you have 7 kilos, the seventh you get 9 kilos, and the tenth you have 15 kilos. This is the way most motorcyclesprings are made.
3. a fully progressive spring. This is Hyperpro. In this case every winding of the spring is different, or I should say the gap is different. Every Inch you press this spring adds a different force to the total, progressively increasing.....
For instance, the first Inch gives 0.8 kilo, the second another 1.0, the third 1.2 and so on.... This way you get at 5 Inches 6 kilos, and at 10 Inches the same 17 kilos. This spring is the same size and weight as the progressive one, but wound differently. And yes, this type of spring is patented (for use in shocks that is) by Hyperpro.

The effect is that the first part of the spring is softer (more comfortable riding), and the last part is stiffer (giving better ground-clearance, higher curve-speeds, and less affected by bumps).
Also the Hypepro springs are polished so that they give less friction and less wear than others (like the Wilbers).

Is this clear? If anybody has any questions, I will be more than happy to explain....

We are very interested (me as a Hyperpro dealer, and aslo the Hyperpro factory which flow-charts you have compaired between Wilbers and Hyperpro because it is impossible that they are the same....).
Can you send me a copy?
This is not to use in court or something, but certain parties are telling you an incomplete or even totally false story..... The strenght of a good organisation depends on sending out the correct answers to questions customers have, and in this case there is a lot of wrong info around....
Pete in PA
I've since read the directions with the HyperPro springs and They just use the stock fork spacers. They also increased the "air chamber", fork oil setting is 140mm with 7.5 wt. oil.

On the spec list they have static sag but it's not the "normal" static sag. They want 25mm without rider, just the bike.

On the rear they want 10mm of no rider static sag. I'll set it up that way initially, ride it and check, but I think I'll wind up setting it up for my weight with PVC in the front and the rings in the rear.

They also include 2 (why?) 6mm spacers for the shock which I don't think I'll use due to all the chain adjustment problems. (dragging on centerstand, not knowing the correct chain sag, etc.) I like how it handles just fine the way it is.

BTW: no video with it, just genaric instructions with an XX specific page on the front.

For those who like purple, the rear spring is a real bright purple, I'm OK with it.
rodantking
They also include 2 (why?) 6mm spacers for the shock which I don't think I'll use due to all the chain adjustment problems. (dragging on centerstand, not knowing the correct chain sag, etc.) I like how it handles just fine the way it is.
QUOTE


Why would it affect the chain? The way I've read it you are lifting on top of the shock mount. I need to go look at what you saying when it warms up, but I haven't invisioned it beening a problem.
Pete in PA
Due to the Pro-Link shock linkage, raising the rear of the bike 6mm at the shock mount multiplies the movement at the end of the swingarm.

For anyone that's done it, how much higher is the rear end?

The chain is tightest when the sprockets and swingarm pivot are on the same plane.

The chain tension spec. is for when the rear suspension is topped out. Now you've gone and moved that position so now where do you set it?

People that have done this have had the chain rub on the centerstand when they had what they thought was the proper chain slack.

I'm fine with the steering as it is, I don't need to speed it up any. Besides, the HyperPro instructions have you moving the forks up in the tree also for a total stickout height of 45mm above the top yoke.
Redbird
Shock linkage is ~ 3/1, so you'll see about 18mm change at the axle. I've never had any problem with the chain rubbing the swingarm.


Not everyone agrees on terminology, but the way I understand it-

Static sag= bike only with suspension settled.

Rider sag= bike w/rider with suspension settled.

Good writeup here hits all the high points- http://www.cbrworld.net/FIREBLADE/suspensi...ds_by_andy_.htm
Helvet
QUOTE(Pete in PA)
The chain tension spec. is for when the rear suspension is topped out. Now you've gone and moved that position so now where do you set it?

People that have done this have had the chain rub on the centerstand when they had what they thought was the proper chain slack.

I'm fine with the steering as it is, I don't need to speed it up any. Besides, the HyperPro instructions have you moving the forks up in the tree also for a total stickout height of 45mm above the top yoke.


You adjust chain-slack on the centrestand. Yes, with proper settings, the chain is more loose at the moment the suspension is under full compression. This will not cause problems, but just keep an eye on it that it will not come too loose.

Yes, Hyperpro advises to move the forks up in the tree. That is because their springs are not only longer, but the will have a smaller static sag. If you don't move the forks, the bike's ride-height will be higher than original on the front, and the geometry will change.
Since there is no downside to moving the forks as they advise, why shoudn't you do it? The maximum travel will still be the same, and ground-clearance is plenty! I don't understand.....
You will have a bike that is great in a straight line, but that will hesitate to corner.....
It's a 15 minute job, so why won't you just try it? You can always undo it....
Redbird
QUOTE
That is because their springs are not only longer, but the will have a smaller static sag.


Length of the springs is irrelevant, the forks are only so long fully extended no matter what springs you stuff in there. Sag is relevant to steering geometry, but if they have no idea of the load, and thus the sag, so how can they make recommendations to correct for a number they don't have? I can tell you that if Pete sets his unloaded sag at 25mm, his loaded sag is going to be waaay up there- too high by anyone but Hyperpro's standards.

They seem to be selling a one size fits all spring kit, complete with unloaded sag recommendations, which makes absolutely no sense to me. I'm far from a suspension expert, but a 300lbs guy and a 180lbs guy being sold the same spring and being told to use the same preload just goes against what little I do know. Perhaps the language barrier is interfering here a bit, but I completely fail to see what the allure of the whole Hyperpro thing is.
rockmeupto125
QUOTE
Since there is no downside to moving the forks as they advise, why shoudn't you do it? The maximum travel will still be the same, and ground-clearance is plenty! I don't understand.....


Perhaps if you nearly doubled your size, you would understand. If you've seen a picture of my bike, you've seen the scrape marks in the fairings, and the bent centerstand arm....
Pete in PA
Helvet I AM going to raise the forks up in the trees, I already have had them raised for some time, just don't know exactly how much currently.

What I'm not going to do is add the 6mm spacer to the shock at this time.

I agree with Redbird on the forks, unless the springs coil bind at full compression, the travel remains the same no matter what you stuff in there.


I do question the rear Pro-link though. I thought it was a progressive ratio not just a constant 3 to 1 in that at small bumps it moves easily then near full compression the ratio goes higher to stop bottoming.
Helvet
QUOTE(rockmeupto125)
QUOTE
Since there is no downside to moving the forks as they advise, why shoudn't you do it? The maximum travel will still be the same, and ground-clearance is plenty! I don't understand.....


Perhaps if you nearly doubled your size, you would understand. If you've seen a picture of my bike, you've seen the scrape marks in the fairings, and the bent centerstand arm....

I had the same problem...... untill I installed the Hyperpro's. Yes, it's hard to explain in another language than your own, but I'll try....
Because the spring rate increases even more when loaded, the difference when riding in sag is not as big as a normal progressive spring. The lean-angle you are talking about is at the end of travel of the spring. If you look at the Hyperpro spring, the force it delivers in this region is much larger than conventional springs, and it is still comfortable with slower speeds. I used to scrape the fairing as well, and also the centrestand. I just bought a new centerstand because it's beginning to annoy me.....
When I mounted the HP's, I found I could corner a lot faster without anything touching the ground. I mounted Gilles footrests before to get more groundclearance, but they are not necessary now.
Yes, I am a leightweight rider, but even heavyweight riders will benefit of this (and even more). Now I never come to the end of the suspensiontravel, and before it happened a lot.....
The lenght of the springs IS a factor that counts. With longer springs you will reduce the static sag (if the spring has the same strenght that is). It will therefore give you more suspensiontravel....

Also a fully progressive spring has no resonance-moment (I don't know the correct word). All springs will start to jump around when you go to a certain frequency. I guess we have all seen older cars with weak suspension go over the bumps at a trafficlight. With the exact right speed the suspension will loose all contact with the road, and just jump around. The oil will provide damping in a good system when this happens, but the spring wants to react this way. If we ride over these bumps you will feel the front losing contact. With HP's this is much less because it is not frequency dependant.

If you get the chance, compair a Blackbird with Hyperpro springs with a standard one, and find a third with Öhlins or Racetech. We did the comparison, and had the bikes set up by the factory.
Everybody doing the testrides (over 30) chose the HP.....
Redbird
QUOTE
I do question the rear Pro-link though. I thought it was a progressive ratio not just a constant 3 to 1 in that at small bumps it moves easily then near full compression the ratio goes higher to stop bottoming.


I won't argue that, Pete, as I haven't really delved into it. I was told 3/1 at one point and went with it as it agrees with the final measurements I got after shimming, but that may well change as the swingarm moves.

I'm guilty of regurgitating info there, something I usully try to avoid without at least qualifying it.
Helvet
QUOTE(Pete in PA)
I agree with Redbird on the forks, unless the springs coil bind at full compression, the travel remains the same no matter what you stuff in there.

Yes and no.....
All suspension has a certain travellenght, both in positive and negative direction. With longer springs you make the negative travel shorter, and the positive longer......
rockmeupto125
Not to join a hyperpro argument (I've voiced my feelings before) but to clarify....

I don't corner that aggressively with my brakes on. I have video which can demonstrate that my forks are not fully compressed in corners, and I have Racetech 1.06 springs. Centrifugal forces will compress the springs a wee bit, but not enough to bottom them out.

And my Ohlins shock is raised 6mm over stock.

Dropping your trees on the forks WILL lower the bike enough to hit when cornering aggressively.
Helvet
QUOTE(rockmeupto125)
Not to join a hyperpro argument (I've voiced my feelings before) but to clarify....

I don't corner that aggressively with my brakes on. I have video which can demonstrate that my forks are not fully compressed in corners, and I have Racetech 1.06 springs. Centrifugal forces will compress the springs a wee bit, but not enough to bottom them out.

And my Ohlins shock is raised 6mm over stock.

Dropping your trees on the forks WILL lower the bike enough to hit when cornering aggressively.

I am sorry Joe, but maybe it does with Racetech springs and not with the Hyperpro? I don't have this problem anymore....
The force on the springs when cornering is quite big, and when you hit a bump even more..... It will not bottom out (almost never), but like I said earlier dropping the front a bit neutralizes the longer springs. Therefore I think we are both right....
rockmeupto125
:lol: :devilnangel: :D/
Redbird
QUOTE(Helvet)
QUOTE(Pete in PA)
I agree with Redbird on the forks, unless the springs coil bind at full compression, the travel remains the same no matter what you stuff in there.

Yes and no.....
All suspension has a certain travellenght, both in positive and negative direction. With longer springs you make the negative travel shorter, and the positive longer......


You're splitting hairs. Front suspension travel on the XX is 4.3" (109mm), no spring can change that, period. What your talking about is sag- where in the suspension travel you are when riding or cornering.

Everyone (except maybe Hyperpro) agrees you want to be in the midrange of the total suspension travel when leaned over in a corner, that's why you set rider sag at 1/4-1/3 of total suspension travel. Depending on how aggressively you corner centrifugal force will get you the rest of the way to the sweet spot. All you need to do is explain to me how one spring can do this for riders from 180 to 300lbs. Fully progressive or not, that spring is going to compress considerably more with an extra 120lbs on it. That will change both steering geometry and where you are in the suspension travel, both pretty important factors.
K9XX
It works if you own stock in Hyperpro :P






Am I helping yet??? :lol:
XXTi
QUOTE(K9XX)
It works if you own stock in Hyperpro :P


Or at least become a HyperPro dealer. :lol:
Helvet
QUOTE(XXTi)
QUOTE(K9XX)
It works if you own stock in Hyperpro :P


Or at least become a HyperPro dealer. :lol:

I was a fan long before I became a dealer..... :lol:
I tried most other springs, but I liked the Hyperpro the best by far......
Racetech is not available in Europe (at least I've never seen any...), so I can't tell if it's good or not.

Yes, I agree you should adjust static sag. Hyperpro Europe also adjusts for sag. I don't know how the USA importer thinks about this....

Why they don't compensate for heavier or lighter riders is because the springs used are lighter than the others in the first few inches of travel, and heavier than others in the last few inches. That way they have a very large area covered. Hyperpro has springs made in lots of types. For the Blackbird they only have one fitting spring. For some other bikes they have more, but 95% buys standard.

Personally I could agree with you that if you are an exceptional rider (in skills or weight) you might be out of place with these springs. But in those cases I would advice to go beyond springs, and buy complete shocks.
arcticflipper
Suspension sag??

Rates??

etc???

Slow down, I'm new to this stuff, trying really hard to follow but seems to be a little lost here..

1. I need to upgrade the fork Springs,
2. then I need to drop the front +- 1 inch
3. Then I need to look at a 6mm shimm on the rear shock - this would be to lift the rear +- 18mm

4. Need to set the rider sag..... How do I do this? (Front)

Please keep in mind I'm a MIDGET - 5.11 and only +- 70 KG's (154 pounds)

If you drop the front, do you not change the ride position, leaning more forward and placing more weight onto your hands?

I do understand that this will help with the cornereing speed and response of the bike, but keeping in mind my weight and newness to this class bike, will I need to drop the front that much?

I've, with the stock springs, dropped the front +- 4mm so far, and can say that the bike is feeling a lot more stable in corners, and during the corner. I do however still need to upgrade the rear to keep the stability out of the corner.
Helvet
If you take a standard BB, and measure the distance between the front fender and the fairing, write this down.
If you upgrade to Hyperpro and do the same measure, the gap (distance) will be greater. This is because the springs are longer.....
Therefore you should lower the front to get to the same (or perhaps a little less) distance.

Rider sag is how much the bike drops after you sit on the bike, compaired to not sitting on it. There is a value suggested for this, but without the papers I could not tell you this exactly. With a heavier rider you could worrie about this, but I don't think you need to......
With your size however, I would strongly suggest not raising the rear. This will make it harder for you to reach the ground when standing still....

The good thing is you can experiment a little. Just start by going step for step. Do write down all measurements or you could get lost.
Goodluck!
Redbird
QUOTE(Helvet)
If you take a standard BB, and measure the distance between the front fender and the fairing, write this down.
If you upgrade to Hyperpro and do the same measure, the gap (distance) will be greater. This is because the springs are longer.....
Therefore you should lower the front to get to the same (or perhaps a little less) distance.

Rider sag is how much the bike drops after you sit on the bike, compaired to not sitting on it. There is a value suggested for this, but without the papers I could not tell you this exactly. With a heavier rider you could worrie about this, but I don't think you need to......
With your size however, I would strongly suggest not raising the rear. This will make it harder for you to reach the ground when standing still....


Dude, maybe find those papers before you give any more advice. You seem to have the concept down in the most general way, but you're a bit off on some of the details. Advising anyone not to worry about sag is just plain, well, stupid. Sorry, but it's one of the most basic and important ajustments you can make to your suspension. Ignore it if you will, but you're not getting your money's worth out of anything you spend on springs if you just throw them in there and hope for the best, regardless of Hyperpro's sales pitch.
JasonW
I'm no suspension expert myself, but I'd have to agree with Tim here.

So, Helvet, you're saying that the HyperPro springs will magically set the correct sag for you no matter what weight you are, so you make up for ride height by dropping the forks in the trees?.....or are you saying that the correct sag isn't even important in suspension tuning? Does Hyperpro allow just anyone to sell their product without any knowledge of suspension whatsoever?


arcticflipper,
I wouldn't waste your money on a spring change. The stock spring rate is okay for your weight and you would benefit more from revalving or changing the oil weight and setting the sag correctly, IMO.
All of the compaints about the stock setup being undersprung are from much heavier riders than yourself.
Helvet
I told him, and I mean only him, not to worry about the sag. He is lightweight, and the standard setup for these springs in this bike only differs 5 kilos. This makes hardly any difference in sag.
If you dont believe me, just ad 5 liters of water to your buddyseat (that is exactly 5 kilos). See what this does to your sag......
shovelstrokeed
First and most important adjustment is spring rate and, as Jason stated, at 154 lbs you probably have more than enough spring in your front fork. Sag, or preload asjustment helps to fine tune the spring rate to the individual rider. Basically it is the difference between the unladen fork or the just the bike weight fork position and that with the rider aboard. A good starting point would be about a 20 mm difference between the bike only sag and rider aboard sag.

From there, changes in fork rake and trail due to rear shock shims, raising or lowering fork tubes in the triples can make subtle to dramatic changes in the way the bike steers or turns in and in the stability of the bike during transitions from heeled over to straight up. It can also, if taken too far, have a really bad effect on straight line stability. The Blackbird can certainly benefit from a little quicker steering, IMHO, but it is not really bad in that respect when you take its long wheelbase into account.

Damping can benefit from adjustment of fork oil weight as the bike does seem to have far too much compression damping on the front. You may also adjust the level of oil in the forks to get a bit of "air spring" effect which, in your case, probably is not needed.
Helvet
QUOTE(JasonW)
I'm no suspension expert myself, but I'd have to agree with Tim here.

So, Helvet, you're saying that the HyperPro springs will magically set the correct sag for you no matter what weight you are, so you make up for ride height by dropping the forks in the trees?.....or are you saying that the correct sag isn't even important in suspension tuning? Does Hyperpro allow just anyone to sell their product without any knowledge of suspension whatsoever?


arcticflipper,
I wouldn't waste your money on a spring change. The stock spring rate is okay for your weight and you would benefit more from revalving or changing the oil weight and setting the sag correctly, IMO.
All of the compaints about the stock setup being undersprung are from much heavier riders than yourself.


I disagree (and you should pay more attention when reading). I never said that rider weight doesn't make a difference. It does....
I did say that because of the construction of the spring the difference is a lot less than with non-progressive springs (and in this case the progressive springs sold out there are not progressive, but a double lineair spring). Static sag is not as important as they want you to believe. It's the dynamic movement you need to worry about, and this is dependant on cornering, speed and bumps. Yes, if you get the static sag all wrong, you have a problem....
But just try it on a Hyperpro bike.
If you place a rider that is twice as heavy on the buddyseat, the difference is not that big. Even the heavy rider will not bottom out the springs when riding (only on very big speedbumps).

I do agree with all of you that there is more to the story than I told, but just don't overdo it. We are not GP-riders, and most of us will never know what is possible and impossible with upgraded suspension.

About Hyperpro allowing just anyone to sell their product without any knowledge of suspension whatsoever: are you kidding me?
Or are you really trying to make a point I don't know ANYTHING about suspension? That is just about as stupid as Jessica Simpson...... :lol:
Do you really think that? So everything I ever said about this subject was all false? I guess we can agree you are mistaken here....
The fact is that I don't know everything, I agree (and I never said so). But I do know enough to sell the product, and I know a lot more than most bikedealers....
Yes, in January when I start my business I will have another course in suspension. Don't worry.....
Redbird
QUOTE
Do you really think that? So everything I ever said about this subject was all false? I guess we can agree you are mistaken here....
The fact is that I don't know everything, I agree (and I never said so). But I do know enough to sell the product, and I know a lot more than most bikedealers....


Helvet, whether it's the language difference or lack of knowledge on your part I'm not sure, but some of the advice you've given in this thread is questionable. Knowing enough to sell a spring and knowing enough to advise someone on suspension setup are (apparently) two very different things. Further, my wife knows more than most dealers, but she isn't in here telling people not to worry about sag. Saying it makes no difference at his weight makes no sense either. You install new springs, you check the sag and ajust if needed, period. It's part of the process if you're going to bother replacing the springs.

Speaking of sag, it's not real clear you even know exactly what the term means. Your description of sag and how to measure it a few posts back was at best vague, at worst just plain incorrect. This may be a language issue again, but no one here has any way of knowing that. From where I'm sitting you seem like a guy who's happy with a product he's bought, read all their literature and decided to to start throwing around advice. I may be wrong, but that's what it seems like.

How many bikes have you personally set the sag on? What's the static sag on your bike right now, front and back? What's the rider sag? How much preload on your front springs to get that number? Spacer length, oil height? Tell us about your own setup other than "it's Hyperpro" and you love it.

QUOTE
I do agree with all of you that there is more to the story than I told, but just don't overdo it. We are not GP-riders, and most of us will never know what is possible and impossible with upgraded suspension.


If us mere mortals are incapable of perceiving the benifits of a spring upgrade, why bother buying springs at all? Strage talk from a guy that's going to be selling this stuff. Main point- if you're going to bother mucking about with your suspension, it's best to do it right, GP racer or not.
Red J
Tim,

I think if you just try a Hyperpro bike, you will understand.

:)

J.
arcticflipper
Thanks guys, Tim sorry I did see the link on a previous page, just didn't register...

Me bad there.
Pete in PA
HyperPro wants me to put in their springs, the stock spacer and button it up. This will set the bike weight only front sag at 25mm.

When I sit on it with my 300lb (136kg) ass, It HAS to compress more then 5-10mm to reach ideal rider sag of 30mm. I may be surprised, but I think I'll wind up shiming the stock spacer.

Joe, I would LOVE to hear your input on HyperPro. If it was covered before it didn't come up in a search. Maybe it was lost in the last site dump?
Helvet
QUOTE(Redbird)
If us mere mortals are incapable of perceiving the benifits of a spring upgrade, why bother buying springs at all? Strage talk from a guy that's going to be selling this stuff. Main point- if you're going to bother mucking about with your suspension, it's best to do it right, GP racer or not.

I guess we really got a language barrier here....
This is not what I meant at all.... :? I believe almost any rider with benefit from spring upgrades. I just don't think most riders will benefit from adjusting the setup without any knowledge or help from an experienced mechanic.
I meant to tell him that just installing the springs the way any manufacturer prescribes will be more than enough for most riders. Only if you want the best results you should be able to do some finer tuning....

For the other points, you are partly right. I don't adjust preload or sag on bikes. I just watched Hyperpro do it a few times. I am not a mechanic, nor do I pretend to be one.....
Red J
QUOTE(Helvet)
I believe almost any rider with benefit from spring upgrades. I just don't think most riders will benefit from adjusting the setup without any knowledge or help from an experienced mechanic.


Basically, you advise to change a single component in the system, a critical one. Without adjusting the other components in the system. Other components that are directly affected by the first component's function.

"Buy this spring, and get a better handling bike without changes to any other components. No adjustment necessary. And don't ask any technical questions."

You'll do well in sales.

----

I really should refrain from getting into this, as others here have tried unsuccessfully to educate you, but it is foolish to change out a spring for another spring of a different rate in any system, without verification of the preload (sag). Just plain stupid. I'm not suggesting that users need to do this themselves, if they are unfamiliar with the process, perhaps they should educate themselves, or take the parts to a bike shop to have them fitted.

This nonsense of physics not applicable to Hyperpro is, well, nonsense.
Redbird
QUOTE
I just don't think most riders will benefit from adjusting the setup without any knowledge or help from an experienced mechanic.


Believe it or not, that's what some people come here looking for.


QUOTE
Only if you want the best results you should be able to do some finer tuning....


Hey, look at that, we agree. Why would you bother replacing your springs if you weren't looking for the best results?


QUOTE
I am not a mechanic, nor do I pretend to be one.....


Fooled me. You were telling people how to check sag earlier in this thread, something you now admit you've never done yourself. If you're not qualified to give mechanical advice, then don't :wink:
rodantking
Redbird,
I thank you for some opposing info. I know very little about suspension, but intend to learn it if it kills me. I know there is not a one fix for every rider, but I would love to hear were you have you suspension and your weight.
I have all most no miles on this bike. As soon as I bought the bike about 3 weeks ago, winter hit as as I brought it home. I did notice the harsh damping.
I apologize because I haven't even check sag yet (I have a friend coming over this weekend to run a tape), but I what to get a start on this over the winter. I know it's going to need more work when I find a road warm enough to lay it over in.
Thank all of you for your knowledge.
arcticflipper
Must aggree on the language barrier here, for any newbie or anyone for that mater that has never really gone into so much depth with regards to suspension and certain upgrades to bikes, this could become very confusing very quickly.

I've never had to look into shocks or suspension setups, and have always been happy with the stock setup. But now since I've started to explore the capabilities of the XX, and getting all the info from this forum I can see why there is a need to do certain upgrades and changes.

I can also understand why a lot of readers will look at the posts, and get the impression that you only need to do one thing, instead of looking further into this and researching the entire solution.

I think this is a great + for the forum, the guys out there can see that the people on here really have the knowledge, and can easily mistake a half solution for a complete one. Because the majority of people on here have the knowledge, they only need half a word to understand the solution.

While for newer members that's still a long way off.

But then it is still your duty to make sure that you understand what is talked about before you try to do anything!!!!

I think the best and most likely only solution to this would be to test both the products and then make the decision.

Unfortunately due to costs involved, it would be greatly appreciated if we can get some feedback from current members who has installed the HyperPro option, against a Linear or any other non stock option. With the right sag setup included for the test.

After all, even though the info received from the manufacturer might not be 100% complete, we still now know that you need to check and adjust the sag.

Thanks for all the info.
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