Cranking up the front shocks

[flybuddy]

Do setting the front shocks at 4 or 5 (2012), improve high speed handling or just cornering? I'm currently set on 4 and am very comfortable in the turns and also at high speeds. Only issue I have is buffeting when behind large trucks. (yes I'm soft on the controls). I've read many Elka threads where it is specifically mentioned that handling is improved near trucks. I've also read a couple of threads where the smaller windshield helped this issue also. Pardon my confusion but lots of folks say there is no real issue and it's rider caused BUT lots of folks say this non existing problem is solved with Elka shocks and/or smaller windshields. Since the Elkas tend to be stiffer and raise the front end it seems to make sense to set the stock shocks at the highest setting...I also have the low touring windshield on order for heat reduction and personal preference. Opinions?

 

[NancysToy]

Do you have a problem with buffeting, or darting? Buffeting is common, and cannot be helped. A light vehicle and an open rider are going to feel the turbulent winds behind a truck. If the Spyder doesn't stay in its lane, however, or cannot be handled with one hand under those situations, stiffening the springs may help a bit. An alignment may be in order, too, as too little toe-in can cause darting. If these don't do it, performance shocks or a stiffer sway bar are possible answers. The bottom line on the spring preload is that it doesn't cost anything to try, and can easily be reversed if you don't like the results.

 

[flybuddy]

I guess darting would describe it but if it were an alignment issue wouldn't I feel it all the time at speed? I'll take a shot cranking up the shocks, maybe the shield will help also when it comes.

 

[NancysToy]

I guess darting would describe it but if it were an alignment issue wouldn't I feel it all the time at speed? I'll take a shot cranking up the shocks, maybe the shield will help also when it comes.

If it is a toe-in problem, it would be most evident in buffeting winds, on bumps, or in transitioning to a different pitch crown (as in changing lanes or crossing the road shoulder). The most common problem in buffeting winds behind a truck is the rider trying to overcontrol and respond to every "twitch". Not saying that is what is happening with you, but it is an uncomfortable spot for a great many riders.

 

[flybuddy]

Thx, good info

 

[smoky]

Only issue I have is buffeting when behind large trucks. (yes I'm soft on the controls).



I'm sure you've thought of it, but the best thing you can do is stay as far away from behind big trucks as you possibly can. If they sling one of those "Interstate Alligators" you could be in direct line of fire. I try my best to never get behind one if at all possible. This helps stability a lot....

 

[flybuddy]

One other thing worth considering is front trunk ballast. In tailwheel airplanes the more you move the CG aft the more it wants to groundloop (swap ends). The Spyder is a similar configuration and might benefit from moving the CG forward. Anyone try this?

 

[Bob Denman]

At a fueing stop, I met a fellow who said that he worked for one of the outside vendors who did a lot of work on the front end suspension geometry... They had to spend CUBIC dollars getting the handling to remain consistent whether the Frunk was empty or fully loaded... The V.S.S. from Bosch is what kept the hopes alive...
But that's another story for another time...

Keeping yourself from being knocked around by passing trucks; try bringing your knees in against the padding on the sides of the seat. I have found that if I hold my position on the bike, it tracks smoother. (less unwanted input gets through to the bars...)

 

[pro10is]

At a fueing stop, I met a fellow who said that he worked for one of the outside vendors who did a lot of work on the front end suspension geometry... They had to spend CUBIC dollars getting the handling to remain consistent whether the Frunk was empty or fully loaded... The V.S.S. from Bosch is what kept the hopes alive...
But that's another story for another time....)

Cliffhanger! Bob, please tell the whole story.