News:

           Enjoy your FJ


Main Menu

new front springs, what else while I am there?

Started by Rhino, November 10, 2012, 02:56:32 AM

Previous topic - Next topic

Rhino

Hey guys,

I'm shortly getting some front end work done on the fj.
new discs, pads, progressive springs, seals and new oil.

should i be getting anything else inexpensive done while I am there?
what weight oil (sorry oil question) are you guys using with progressive springs?

RichBaker

Most of us have better luck with straight rate springs. The progressive ones are too soft, especially for 2-up or heavier riders...  Typically between .8 and 1.1 kg/mm spring rate, depending on your weight.
I have 1.0 kg/mm, 10w oil with Race Tech emulators. RPM Randy is selling some similar valves to the emulators and the guys here that have tried them, love them... You can see them and his recommendations at the RPM website.
Rich Baker - NRA Life, AZCDL, Trail Riders of S. AZ. , AMA Life, BRC, HEAT Dirt Riders, SAMA....
Tennessee Squire
90 FJ1200, 03 WR450F ;8^P

Mike Ramos

Morning,

I would recommend the Fork Valves from R.P.M. Many thousands of miles later I remain very impressed with the handling improvement they provide regardless of speed or road surface.  As a result of the increased handling capabilities I found myself in need of additional braking power; thus I installed the upgraded brake pads that R.P.M. sells & which compliment and greatly improve the performance of the blue dot calipers that are on my FJ.

Just to be clear, they are NOT similar to the Race Tech emulators - the valves from RPM were developed using a different principle and are FJ specific.  Look around this Forum and you will find other threads which address the Fork Valves in detail. There are also a few videos showing them in action.

Also, I would suggest installing the Fork Brace as well, it ties the front end assembly together, making for a sound package. I first utilized the Valves and later I installed the Brace and then the brake pads; these incremental changes were noticeable and a definite improvement - not just different - and really add to the ride quality of the motorcycle.

Many of us are eagerly anticipating the new Rear Shock that is currently under development by R.P.M.

Ride safely,

Mike Ramos.

Mark Olson

Quote from: Rhino on November 10, 2012, 02:56:32 AM
Hey guys,

I'm shortly getting some front end work done on the fj.
new discs, pads, progressive springs, seals and new oil.

should i be getting anything else inexpensive done while I am there?
what weight oil (sorry oil question) are you guys using with progressive springs?

change the bushings in the forks as well.

oil weight is a personal choice  . smooth ride 10w, medium 15w, stiff 20w.
Mark O.
86 fj1200
sac ca.

                           " Get off your ass and Ride"

FJmonkey

Quote from: Mark Olson on November 10, 2012, 11:48:09 AM
Quote from: Rhino on November 10, 2012, 02:56:32 AM
Hey guys,

I'm shortly getting some front end work done on the fj.
new discs, pads, progressive springs, seals and new oil.

should i be getting anything else inexpensive done while I am there?
what weight oil (sorry oil question) are you guys using with progressive springs?

change the bushings in the forks as well.

oil weight is a personal choice  . smooth ride 10w, medium 15w, stiff 20w.
If you go with RPM valves then stick with the recommended 5w. Other wise enjoy the old school front end.....
The glass is not half full, it was engineered with a 2X safety factor.

'86 Ambulance - Bent frame, cracked case, due for an overhaul
'89 Stormy Blue - Suits my Dark Side