What it does
The front forks and the rear shock absorber carry the weight of the bike and the rider, soak up bumps, and keep the tyres in contact with the road. The springs carry the load, and the damping controls how quickly the suspension moves.
Preload and load
- Preload sets how much the spring is compressed at rest. When you add luggage or a passenger, the bike sits lower and may need more preload.
- The owner’s manual gives suggested settings for a rider alone, with a passenger and with luggage. Start there.
- A bike that bottoms out or wallows is often set too soft for its load.
Signs of a problem
- Oil on the fork legs, which means that a fork seal is leaking.
- The bike bounces after a bump, or feels floaty or vague in corners.
- The front dives hard under braking, or the suspension bottoms out on bumps.
- Uneven or scalloped tyre wear.
- Clunking or knocking noises from the front or rear.
Simple checks
- With the front brake on, press down on the handlebars. The forks should move smoothly and come back without bouncing.
- Look for oil and dirt on the fork legs, and for leaks around the rear shock.
- Check that the bike stands straight and sits level.
Service and adjustment
Fork oil and seals wear out with time and distance, and the manual gives service intervals. Adjust the settings only as the manual describes, one step at a time and note what you changed. If you are not sure, a mechanic or a suspension specialist can set the bike up for your weight and riding.
Suspension types and settings differ widely between bikes. The owner’s manual and your mechanic are the final word.