Lowering TE

I did not use the Kubalink, I sent it to MX Tech in PA for a revalve, lowering, and service (change oil/seals). So I am unfamiliar with how their 1.5" would translate to the bikes lowering (geometry?).

He installed a limiting bushing so the bike does not ride as high anymore. Here is a picture of a limiting bushing, basically a plastic washer (nylon?), this one looks maybe 3/8" thick so it would lower the shock extension that much.

There is some geometry involved because the shock and forks are not straight up & down - so to lower a bike 1.5" there would be something other than 1.5" of spacers.

I REALLY like to keep things stock unless there is a reason to change to keep things simple & not spend the cash but I would highly recommend getting the suspension re-done on these bikes especially if you are bothering to lower it.



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If you know how to work on forks then yes, at the moment I don't know a lot about it. Although I've muddled my way through changing fork seals on a KLR250.


That pic was taken at John Curea's MX Tech shop/house, those are his hands. Had some time to kill in the midwest last fall and stopped by his shop and he was demonstrating what was done to my bike to re-do the suspension & lower it.

At some point I'll get knowledgeable enough to service the forks - change oil & seals, and remove/add the limiting spacers if need be.


John seems to do many bikes



This is probably how he handles all the work - his assistant

When doing the front end, top-out springs can be used. I am 5'1" with short legs and I lowered my KTM450 with a RaceTech lowering kit that included the top-out springs and spacers (they're Delrin, Coffee.) RaceTech didn't offer anything for my SM610, and I needed to get it revalved and resprung for me anyway, so I had Les at LTR do it. Best motorcycle mod for the money, in my opinion. I've always had all my dirtbikes lowered in this manner and have always been pleased with the results. The only one I did myself was the KTM because the suspension was very close to perfect when I got it.

I'm of the opinion that it is never a good idea to lower only one end of the bike, especially messing with the preload. It needs to be set where it needs to be set for proper suspension function. If you take all the preload out and then add a lowering link, there's going to be some funky repercussions in how your suspension works. Sliding the fork tubes in the triple clamp just makes things even worse...sloppy in the rear and twitchy in the front.

You won't regret getting your suspension tuned specifically to your weight and riding ability.



WoodsChick

I agree.

I want to urge everyone to get together with other riders and check each others bikes out whenever possible. Suspensions, jetting, efi, tires - all kinds of things can be compared and it is much fun meeting other people in person.

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