New works suspension installed!!!
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
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From: Southwest OHIO
New works suspension installed!!!
Well i got my Works Blacktrackers (12-5/8") and triple rate front springs via UPS last evening. figured i would go ahead and install them as i didnt have anything else going on... the installation went mighty smooth, as expected, took maybe 2 hours. Put the bike on the lift, removed rear springs with floor jack under rear tire to support the weight and also aids in adjusting the height of the wheel to match the length of the shocks.
After the rear was complete, i jumped on the front springs. i didnt have the exact size socket, but my rear axle nut socket was just a little bit bigger. i used that without any damage to the fork tube "plug". There is a bit of pre-load on the springs, so just be ready with your hand over top of the socket. removed stock spacer. i made a tool out of a clothes hanger, about 2-2.5 feet long with a little bend at the end to hook the springs. pulled the spring out 1/4 to 1/2 way out and put a screw driver between the coils to let the oil drip off. removed the springs and installed the new springs and spacers as described in the directions from Works. another tip, before you install the new pvc spacer. put of fork tube plug in and figure out where the threads start to mesh, this will help you install the plug when its under tension of the springs.
all in all the installation was a breeze but i was only able to take a short ride last night to see how it felt. i can tell you that the rear of the bike felt so much more solid in turns, like it was glued to the pavement. and the front felt so much better when breaking, no diving! so in all i can say that it was well worth the money spent on new suspension...
After the rear was complete, i jumped on the front springs. i didnt have the exact size socket, but my rear axle nut socket was just a little bit bigger. i used that without any damage to the fork tube "plug". There is a bit of pre-load on the springs, so just be ready with your hand over top of the socket. removed stock spacer. i made a tool out of a clothes hanger, about 2-2.5 feet long with a little bend at the end to hook the springs. pulled the spring out 1/4 to 1/2 way out and put a screw driver between the coils to let the oil drip off. removed the springs and installed the new springs and spacers as described in the directions from Works. another tip, before you install the new pvc spacer. put of fork tube plug in and figure out where the threads start to mesh, this will help you install the plug when its under tension of the springs.
all in all the installation was a breeze but i was only able to take a short ride last night to see how it felt. i can tell you that the rear of the bike felt so much more solid in turns, like it was glued to the pavement. and the front felt so much better when breaking, no diving! so in all i can say that it was well worth the money spent on new suspension...
Last edited by shimmon; Apr 15, 2011 at 07:31 AM.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 2,062
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From: Southwest OHIO
no, i left the stock fork oil in. Was gonna maybe add a small amount because what was left on the springs and slides...
Should i change out my forkoil with this setup? Are you running the triple rates?
Should i change out my forkoil with this setup? Are you running the triple rates?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 2,938
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From: NC
yes, you should have changed the stock 5wt oil for 15wt or 20wt fluid. you are missing out on a big part of the potential by skipping this step.
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Mar 2008
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From: Southwest OHIO
yeah i was debating on changing the oil... but these were "drop in" so i figured i would give it a shot. im gonna need a new front tire in a month or two anyways, might as well do it all at one time i figure.
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Road Master
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 1,168
Likes: 1
From: Cornwall UK
When i did a similar upgrade albeit with Hagons front and rear they reccommended a different quantity and grade of oil. Did Works provide any such info, if not it might be worth asking. Just a thought.
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Road Captain
Joined: Feb 2009
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From: D.C suburbs
Interested also, I am looking to upgrade my suspension and upgrade to a 106 this winter. Definately looking into works as an option
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