Sinking front suspension?

[alex_rsa]

Hi,

Pulled up next to a new GS the other day and noticed my handlebars were about 5 cm lower, infact the whole bike seemes lower. I have aslo noticed the front feels a bit harsher over bumps.

Question is has the front spring started to sag? I have just made a couple of measurements which I hope somebody could compare to their standard 1200GS.

From top of the oil seal on the front fork to the bottom of the black cap at the top of the form - 135mm.

From the ground to the top of the handlebar bung - 1235mm.

Could somebody check their heights please!

For reference bike is 2004 model with 51000 miles and I think it is still on its original shocks although Tim Cullis may now better (it was his old bike).

Thanks

Alex

 

[deaninkl]

to many pies Alex?

 

[alex_rsa]

Hope not, I think I consume as many pies as the next Tosser

I think the springs may have had enough after 51000 miles, just wanted somebody to confirm the ride height of a 2004 model GS as I was comparing it against a 2008 model.

Alex

 

[(RIP) Kaister]

you sure it wasn't lowered to cope with........

 

[Coolcarbon]

Did the other bike have 'aftermarket' units maybe...

 

[Fanum]

Who was it you said had owned the bike before??

(sorry Tim )

 

[alex_rsa]

It is not having a much "lighter" time now except it is not carrying anything more than the rider and a single pannier.

If the front shock absorber (aka damper) fails the ride height should stay the same? That is why I can only think it is the front spring failing or is there anything in the fork tubes that could fail allowing the suspension to droop?

Is there any figures on the standard ride heights just to confirm I am not imagining the bike getting lower? or will a failed shock absorber give the same symptons?

Alex

 

[(RIP) Kaister]

man - thats not a good look , is it ?

 

[Wrinkly]

Test rode an 08 1200gs back to back with an 07 a couple of weeks ago
08 felt taller, salesman sorry salesperson? said they are slightly taller
haven,t checked it out so couldent be sure.

 

[alex_rsa]

I went passed BMW Battersea last night and they think everything is OK. Maybe the bike I was parked next to had had Adventure shocks fitted, I believe they raise the ride height by 2 inches?

Still believe the front shock is worn, now I just need to find a replacement front shock without the price tag of Ohlins or even better 2 Adventure shocks!

Alex

 

[(RIP) Kaister]

oh - FFS !