Straight forward suspension set-up advice, please

[Warthog]

I know its all a bit of a dark art, but on standard Beemer shocks what should I be looking for in the set-up to ensure a good ride. My R1150GS feels planted on smooth bends, but bumping means skittish, like the back is stepping out slightly. They've only got preload, right? so what should I try and get the bike to do when playing with the c-spanner to get the bike fully planted on the go?

 

[cookie]

simplest (and admittedly unscientific) method is to back preload & rebound damping right off, then road test & increase either as necessary.

repeat until happy.

if still unhappy, buy ohlins, WP etc.

 

[Micky]

Agree with Cookie...

To keep it simple, you need as little preload and rebound as you can get away with.

Standard units you can play with the rebound all day... doesn't make much difference. Öhlins, WP, Wilbers etc.... you can feel the difference!

Good suspenders are worth 10bhp

 

[Mzokk]

Also grab the back wheel and give it a good wiggle. The paralever bearings can need adjustment/replacement at relatively low mileage and make the back end wander about a bit when they do.

 

[littleredrooster]

FWIW, my settings were:
Front pre-load: minimum setting
Rear pre-load about standard (any higher and I couldn't touch the ground!)
Rear damping about 0.5 turns out from fully in.

That was for a solo rider ~11 stone.
With pillion + luggage, rear pre-load near max, damping about 0.75 turns out from fully in.
Worked for me!