Lame question... sorry

[Dick_Stilton]

Dick here.

As you ladies and gentlemen know I am quite new to this R65 of mine and finding my way a bit. I was cleaning off some crud when I discovered a leaver on the rear springs. A few exploratory tugs and I discover that this must be for ride settings. I am guessing that tighter spring compression is for solo riding? Or is it the other way arround? What is the optimal setting for solo riding? Position 1 (Most compressed),2 or 3 (least compressed) ? Thanks.

[Jon_P]

depends on alot of factors on where you sent you rear springs. depends on drivers weight, if your touring and have it loaded with gear and or a passager, and most important for me how it feels when you load the supension when driving hard. i guess i would say start with it compressed and work your way down till you get the ride you desire.

[thrang]

The stock BMW r65 springs aren't up to much at the best of times Dick, and my advice would be to junk them for something better. Be care full of the levers as they can break (as I discovered) especially if you are changing settings (say to carry a pillion) on a chilly morning.

[MrRiden]

The levers aid in removal when fitting a more suitable pair. These are recomended as a low cost / suitable replacement.
http://www.hagon-shocks.co.uk/main1st.htm
rich

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

Yeah, if you have the (VERY convenient) handles, then you have the wrong shock.  

I, too, have Hagons, and like them.  We have a real nice distributor here in the States, and asks how much you weigh, etc.

They have three settings, just like the stock shocks, but have the typical large and heavy wrench to adjust them with.  

I weigh 175 lbs (80kg) and I put mine on the middle setting before a trip last year, and have not moved them since.  I love them!  A big improvement!

[Dick_Stilton]

ahhhhhhhhhh right! I am now wiser! Thanks folks I shall be a changing them there shocks.

Regards

Dick

[NC Steve]

Dick, I just checked my O-riginal owner's manual for about the 15th time on this & I still can't figure out the answer to your question. I've yet to decipher which are positions 1 or 3, as in more or less  compressed springs, so just keep mine on 2/Medium, figuring my 170 lb butt + assorted junk is about an average load (no smart remarks , anyone ).

Stock shocks are still junk, of course, but I'd love to learn the answer to this Great Mystery, if anyone knows. Meanwhile, I'm planning on a set of Hagons over the winter like everyone else uses and loves... [smiley=thumbsup.gif]

[Melena]

NC Steve -    Mmmpphs mmmph!  

Okay.  I didn't say anything.  

I have the Hagon shocks too.  I just put them on last fall.  They are great!!  Sooooo much better.  

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

The looser the spring is, the lighter the load.

When you add weight, you tighten up the spring.

Also, for sportier handling, tighten up the spring.

[NC Steve]

You would think so, Rob, but I've heard the converse said too, as in, compress the spring and ride more on the shock for lighter loads, which also lowers the bike for smaller/lighter riders, so  :-/
Think I'll just stick with the "stock shocks are crap" drill & not give it any more thought...
And, thanks Melena!  [smiley=thumbsup.gif]