Suspension / handling questions

[yamadawg]

The previous owner of my '03 RSMV lowered the front by moving the forks up the triple tree one inch. He did this because he was shorter, but I am 6'3" and thought that I may like the bike a little higher. Really, for no particular reason as it looks fine and seems to handle OK as it is. I saw on some other postings that some say the bike handles better with the front lowered like this. If so, I am fine with leaving it as it is. Mine is the only 2nd Gen I have ridden so I have nothing to compare it to and would appreciate any input. :scratchchin:What has been your experience? Does the bike handle better with the front lowered?

Thanks!

Don

[V7Goose]

Put the front back to normal and add DiamondR Leveling Links to raise the rear by 1". The bike will handle great and you will have much more cornering clearance on the pipes.

Goose

[wes0778]

Does the bike handle better with the front lowered?

 

Back to the original question...

I'm one of the inseam challenged (27") members of the group and would like to lower the front. What difference should I notice, aside from being able to almost get both heels down, at the same time?

[yamadawg]

Hey Wes,

It looks like it's just me and you on this one so far. My bike is lowered 1" on the front and seems to handle great. Not like a 1st gen, but still good. :Venture:Maybe we'll hear from some others soon...

Don

[Jerry W]

Mine is lowered front and rear, I am very happy with the results. Handles great.

[dmoff1698]

I lowered the front of my 99 one and one-fourth inch a year ago because of the improved handling claimed on this site. I did not need the lower seat height, so this was just an experiment for me.

 

The thing I noticed immediately was the improved low speed responsiveness in turns. I would never have thought that such a slight change in geometry would make that much difference. I don't feel much change at road speed.

 

It may be my imagination, but I do seem to feel an increase in "harshness" over bumps through the handle bars. The fairing may be bouncing just a bit more on ruff roads. Not enough to bother me or make the bike feel uncomfortable. But I feel it's there.

 

I'm not a very aggressive rider, so dragging peggs sooner is not a issue for me. I wouldn't go back to stock height.