ESA Suspension

[wust588]

I use to own a 2009 1200GS with ESA and although sold the bike, liked the ESA in "comfort" mode.
I'm now looking into buying a 1200R and am undecided whether to go for standard, or ESA.
My question is, which of the two suspension setups would give me the softest damping/preload bearing in mind my 70Kg weight, and sensitive back.
I understand that the ESA was designed around an "average" rider weight of 80KG, so in my case if the standard type of suspension can be adjusted softer, it'd be more suitable?
Ta for for any info.

 

[Tusky]

I use to own a 2009 1200GS with ESA and although sold the bike, liked the ESA in "comfort" mode.
I'm now looking into buying a 1200R and am undecided whether to go for standard, or ESA.
My question is, which of the two suspension setups would give me the softest damping/preload bearing in mind my 70Kg weight, and sensitive back.
I understand that the ESA was designed around an "average" rider weight of 80KG, so in my case if the standard type of suspension can be adjusted softer, it'd be more suitable?
Ta for for any info.

70 kg

Best set mine to two up.... plus luggage.... and very hard sports mode.

Would not be without my ESA as I am 50% on my own 50% two up and VERY varying road surfaces!

That said, if you're used to having it set on a softer ride, what is the point of paying to have ESA?

 

[Bendy toy]

70 kg

Best set mine to two up.... plus luggage.... and very hard sports mode.

Would not be without my ESA as I am 50% on my own 50% two up and VERY varying road surfaces!

That said, if you're used to having it set on a softer ride, what is the point of paying to have ESA?

It's probably a lot cheaper to have some progressive springs from Wilburs (UK supplier is in Birmingham). But they could also offer mods to standard ESA so you could probably have a system that suits all of your needs. Google finds them.

 

[Greenman14]

If most of my riding was similar (and it is): solo with a few kilos of luggage, I wouldn't pay extra for ESA. I have it and use it but I managed for years without it and could do again. I would probably spend the cash on tailor made Maxton units and/or a custom set-up by a suspension specialist.

That said, most buyers opt for fully loaded Beemers so not having it will probably affect resale value.

 

[wust588]

Thanks everybody for the replies and helpful advice.
I've heard good reports about aftermarket suspension specialists, so I'll maybe go down that route when I find the right bike.
Trouble is, there are not many 1200R's for sale, so will have to put up with the suspension that comes with the bike in the first instance.

 

[Greenman14]

These guys are highly recommended from the KTM forum. Lots of adjustment on KTM suspension, easy to get it wrong but fantastic when it's right.

http://www.mhracing.com/