Springs for R1200GS (09)

[Dr.KC]

Hi all, the last month I am thinking to change the stock BMW springs (rear and frond) with something harder…

….(the reason is that when two-up….I am a really tall and big guy 127Kg/197cm…..I feel the rear suspension ending even if I max forced the preload)……

Please advice if I will see any difference with harder springs and if possible suggest for any brand.

Also do you know if with the stock bumpers I may use longer and harder springs.

Thanks for your time.

 

[Gabby]

I fitted Wilburs to my GSA:

http://wilberssuspension.co.uk/bmw.php

Not so expensive as Ohlins but just as good. Simpler to service as well. Used the blue "sport range". They set them up for your weight and riding style. Get front and back if your going to do it. 3 hours to fit both myself.

Did it for me - stange sensation of being very firm but breezed over the bumps. Sleeping Police Men...what are they?....

If your bike has done over 25,000 miles you might consider having BMW re spring them. If your "big" and two uping it a lot they might need it and that might be cheaper for you. Even earlier if you run over the bumpy stuff a lot.

 

[Dr.KC]

Good info, thanks Gabby.

 

[oldnfat]

I've got Wilbers on mine from the boys at Revs. Excellent service. The bike was transformed....like magic, really suple over the rough stuff, excellent over the twisties yet firm enough for the occasional off road bumpy bits. I often ride with pillion and luggage and the Wilbers are excellent....can't recommend highly enough.

New set will cost about £1000 but think of it as an investment. Keep your OEMs and sell the Wilbers on when you sell the bike....should get at least 50% back.

 

[Sgt Bilco]

I use Hyperpro progressive springs on my 1200GSA. www.calsport.co.uk

They will sell you just the spring (ask for UKGSer discount) which is much cheaper that buying a whole suspension unit and will set it to your weight. The bike set up is much better and will stop the wallowing in corners and really stiffens it up

My advice would be to order from them and get them to fit the spring to your standard shocker as it's a real pain in the arse to do unless you have all the right equipment.

edit....I see you are in Athens so it's a bit of a trek to Birmingham!

 

[(RIP) Bobble]

Another vote for Wilbers

 

[Dr.KC]

I use Hyperpro progressive springs.....

....I see you are in Athens so it's a bit of a trek to Birmingham!

My bike is not the GSA but the GS.

I have used Hyper Pro progressive on my F800ST in the past and I was very happy (actually value for money).

The current situation is totally different since I have no issues with my GS when one up. When two up though I feel the rear spring extremely soft.

It is very easy to find both Wilbers or Hyper Pros here in Athens and we also have couple of very good workshops too.

Do you know if I can increase the height (like the GSA) of the bike by installing harder and longer springs but keeping the stock dampers?