Rear Shock - Preload Etc

[lselph]

Have an 05 Sherco 290. first year of trials.. loving it so far. Trying to make sure I have the bike set up correctly. I weigh 210 ish. With the bike set the way I bought it the race sag was very low high (which ever means I had very little suspension left when riding). So I cranked up the pre load and now sag is much better but the unlaiden sag (can't remember what that is refered to) is virtually 0. I feel like the rear should be softer but if I ease up on pre load I run out of suspension travel and comming down on the suspension after a small jump results in me drilling the thing to the end of it's travel. rode my first event in the Novice class and only took 18 points so hopefully I am riding a bit above newbie level. Wondering if settings in the rear are making nose wheelies and bunny hops harder. I have some things to try just haven't had much time to get on the bike recently. Anyway I have heard of a heavier spring maybe that will help... no idea. All thoughts welcome.

Front suspension seems pretty spot on. All linkages, bearings, etc are all in great shape.

I know that to get better I need lots more practice but I want to make sure I am not hindering things by having an imporper set up.

Thanks to all.

[copemech]

The only thing I can tell you is that I have seen many successfull(heavy) expert riders on the stock spring. Technically, a heavier spring would be more appropriate for your weight, if you can still find one for that shocker, as the basic spring is really designed for about a 185lb max rider. Which is me.

As things go, the simplest thing is to run at near zero static sag, be sure to compress the fork before a tight section and let out excess air, and just learn the bike. In most cases it will be fine. Learn to use your knees! It is much more important! Absorb and SQUAT! A lot!

M2C