Do I Change My Suspension With A Passenger?

 When you ride solo, your motorcycle's suspension is tuned to handle your weight and the way you ride. But what happens when you add a passenger? The additional weight can significantly alter the dynamics of your motorcycle's suspension system, affecting handling, comfort, and safety. Understanding the mechanics and taking the appropriate measures is therefore critical.  

The Impact of Additional Weight

Motorcycles are engineered with a suspension system that's designed to absorb bumps, maintain tyre contact with the road, and support the bike's weight. The presence of a passenger adds extra load, which can compress the suspension, leading to decreased ground clearance and altering the geometry of the bike. This shift affects how the motorcycle turns, brakes, and accelerates.

615a207bba674581b5a6fb9b25c7f60c.jpg

Adjusting for Two-Up Riding

For the best riding experience with a passenger, you should adjust your motorcycle's suspension to accommodate the extra weight. Most modern motorcycles come with adjustable suspension components, such as preload, damping, and sometimes even spring rate. Preload adjustment is crucial as it sets the initial compression level of the springs, ensuring the suspension isn't overly compressed when a passenger is on board.

Steps for Adjusting Your Suspension

Preload Adjustment: Increase the preload to prevent the suspension from bottoming out. This helps maintain ground clearance and suspension travel.
Rebound Damping: If your bike feels bouncy with a passenger, increase the rebound damping. This controls the speed at which the suspension returns after being compressed.
Compression Damping: Adjust the compression damping if the bike feels too hard or too soft when hitting bumps. This affects how the suspension compresses under load.
Consulting Your Owner's Manual

Before making any adjustments, it’s important to consult your motorcycle's owner manual. It typically contains recommended settings for solo and two-up riding. Some manufacturers provide detailed instructions on how to adjust the suspension for different loads.

The Benefits of Proper Adjustment

Adjusting your motorcycle's suspension for a passenger can dramatically improve the ride quality and safety. It ensures the motorcycle performs as intended, with optimal traction, stability, and comfort. Moreover, it can prevent premature wear of suspension components due to improper load distribution.

Professional Help for Optimal Setup

If you're unsure about making these adjustments yourself, it’s wise to seek professional help. A skilled technician can set up your suspension for you, considering both the weight of the passenger and any additional luggage you might carry.

Adding a passenger to your motorcycle should be more than just an added weight; it's an opportunity to share the thrill of the road. Adequately adjusting your suspension is a critical step in preparing for a shared journey, enhancing the ride quality for both you and your companion. At Taverner Motorsports, we understand the importance of a finely tuned suspension and are here to ensure your two-up adventures are both safe and exhilarating.