Front forks slow to rebound.

Discussion in 'Mechanics Garage' started by Munzo, May 10, 2015.

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  1. Munzo

    Munzo New Member

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    I'm currently looking to purchase a 2008 VFR with 14k miles on the clock. Everything looks immaculate on it just one slight issue. It's been sitting for a few years with minimal rides and it seems the front forks are slow to rebound. There doesn't appear to be a fork boot leak. The guy has it with a 1 inch lowering link in the back but it doesn't look like the forks were dropped through to adjust the geometry. Maybe something is binding from sitting so long? And at the wrong geometry? I've never dealt with cartridge forks in the past so I'm not sure if it could be something related to that. I'm thinking it might just need a fork oil refresh. Thoughts?
     
  2. OOTV

    OOTV Insider

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    Stiction is a common contributor of poor rebound and can be caused by old dried out fork seals. The other possibility is that the springs or spacers have been altered rather than forks moved in the triple clamps. Either way, easy fix IMO.
     
  3. OZ VFR

    OZ VFR Member

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    Not a great fan of lowering the rear, even if you are really short.
    It will slow down an already slow steering.
    It doesn't have a lot of miles, but if it sat for very long it could do with a fork clean and refresh.
    If it's standard, I would drop the front, just 10mm, you won't be able to drop it to match the rear.
    Best option is to raise the rear back to standard or add 10mm if you can.
     
  4. Munzo

    Munzo New Member

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    Thanks guys. I had a feeling it was an easy fix. Just wanted to double check before I spent the money.

    The seller has the original link to raise it back to stock height so that along with refreshing the forks will be the first thing I tackle.
     
  5. OOTV

    OOTV Insider

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    I know it will be a bit more money to add, but look into www.daughertymotorsports.com and check out Jamie's suspension goodies. I've had both my VFR suspensions modified by him and can say it's worth the investment.
     
  6. Munzo

    Munzo New Member

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    Thanks, for the link. I'll check it out. I'll be coming off a DR650 where the suspension was full set up for my weight, so I know what a difference a properly set up suspension makes. I planned on that being my first upgrade to the bike.
     
  7. Mousejockey

    Mousejockey New Member

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    Can I ask if that effects the travel of the fork and would I need to change anything else ie: airgap, preload, fork oil viscosity? I have already put good valves in and linear rate springs. Plus a Maxton custom shock on the rear. Never thought of lowering the front.
    J
     
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