Front forks rebuild

[uk1.1s]

Just stripped down the front forks of my '82 registered XS1.1 Sport, the Europe model.

The bike has the air forks and a leading spindle (axle) front wheel which I think are common with some of the later US models too.

Anyway - thinking of putting new springs in and wondered if anyone had positive experience with 'Progressive Springs'.

Also (there's always an 'Also' ) Has anyone any recommendations on spacer sizes / air pressure in the forks or anything else to recommend when putting the front units together again which may help.

Just had a good look at the info on Progressive's web site which offers a good starting point - but with some many other XS riders tapping into this forum, perhaps I could benefit from the joint experience!

Cheers - Graham

[Jerry]

I am running Progressive brand progressive springs in my '82 XJ. (Hagon, in the UK, also makes a progressive spring.) I ended up using no air pressure in the front, although the original set-up used air adjustments.

I run a full fairing and weigh about 240 pounds, spacer length used was (I think) around 3.5 inches. For a quick method of getting the right spacer, see the article at:

http://facstaff.uww.edu/fieldsj/mcyc...uspension.html

Go to the "Setting Suspension Sag" section.

I had my spring installed at the Americade touring rally in 2001. See:
http://facstaff.uww.edu/fieldsj/mcyc...e/amcade8.html

Took the crew about 30 minutes. Installation included new fork oil but not seals. The mechanics filled the fork tubes by measuring the oil level, not volume of. (Both volume and level are given in the manual.) Said this makes up for any wear in the tubes and is their standard procedure. Price for springs and installation was $100.00 US.

Difference is quite noticeable. Much firmer ride in cornering with good pliability to soak up small bumps. I had installed a fork brace earlier, and the improvement over stock with both items is significant.

If you are still running stock springs, I would get the progressive replacements, get the sag properly set, and try running without air first. Most people find that quite acceptable. You can experiment with adding air pressure with the progressive springs installed just as you can with the stock springs, and you may find a setting you like with some pressure in the forks.

[sixtysix]

I have Progressive springs in my XS, I no longer run air in them and I am very happy with the results.

[Snow]

I too use the progressive brand front springs, they feel much better - now all I need is a fork brace

[uk1.1s]

Thanks for the feedback

Thanks guys - looks like it's worth going the 'progressive' spring rating way then.

As it's all apart, be rude not too I suppose and the old original springs are looking a bit sorry for themselves. As for what was left of the oil ----yeuck

Think I realised why my fork seal oil leak wasn't as bad as I remebered - good cure for the leaking oil - none left!! Not a recommended way to run a heavy old XS!!

Winter work ongoing, springs ordered, front brake master cylinder rebuilt kit ordered etc etc.