buell s1 lightning '97 Handbuch
2-38
SUSPENSION THEORY
DEFINITIONS
●
Compression:
Suspension is compressed when the
wheel moves upward.
●
Damping:
Resistance to movement. Damping affects
how easily the suspension can move and limits oscilla-
tion of the system once movement has begun.
tion of the system once movement has begun.
●
Preload:
The spring is compressed somewhat during
assembly. This initial compression provides a “loaded”
condition in the spring. This compression is referred to as
preload.
condition in the spring. This compression is referred to as
preload.
●
Rebound:
The suspension is rebounding when it is mov-
ing back from being compressed.
GENERAL
1
WARNING
Before evaluating and adjusting suspension settings,
check the motorcycle’s tires. Tires must be in good con-
dition and properly inflated. Failure to check the tires
may cause personal injury.
check the motorcycle’s tires. Tires must be in good con-
dition and properly inflated. Failure to check the tires
may cause personal injury.
The rear suspension fea-
tures a WP Suspension shock absorber that adjusts for com-
pression and rebound damping as well as spring preload.
pression and rebound damping as well as spring preload.
See
The front suspension uses WP Suspension
inverted forks that adjust for compression and rebound damp-
ing. These forks offer strength and stiffness for improved slid-
ing action, better shock absorption and compliance with the
road.
ing. These forks offer strength and stiffness for improved slid-
ing action, better shock absorption and compliance with the
road.
If the preload adjustment is correct, and you have the
rebound and compression damping set at the factory recom-
mended points the motorcycle should handle and ride prop-
erly. If you are unhappy with these settings they can be
changed according to the following procedures.
rebound and compression damping set at the factory recom-
mended points the motorcycle should handle and ride prop-
erly. If you are unhappy with these settings they can be
changed according to the following procedures.
NOTE
Evaluating and changing the rebound and compression
damping is a very subjective process. Many variables affect
motorcycle handling under different circumstances. Changes
should be approached carefully.
damping is a very subjective process. Many variables affect
motorcycle handling under different circumstances. Changes
should be approached carefully.
Figure 2-44. Rear Shock Rebound Adjuster
Figure 2-45. Rear Shock Compression Adjuster
Figure 2-46. Front Fork Adjusters
5572
7 adjustments
5571
12 adjustments
5542
Front fork rebound
damping adjuster
Front fork compression
damping adjuster