I was wondering if anyone has done an Ohlins (or other manufacturers) upgrade to their suspensions. I wasn't sure how this would affect the handling/comfort of my VFR (it's a 2001). Does a suspension upgrade make the bike more comfortable, better in the twisties, more adjustable for both, etc? Thanks for you input. Mel
It makes it more adjustable and improves handling. Ride quality will suffer a bit as the bike will be stiffer but the trade off in handling is worth it if you like the twisties.
I added a Penske 8900 series shock and IMHO it's a night and day difference. I felt the stocker was flabby --- Yeah its a bit pricey ~ $800 but worth every penny. Mine has the remote reservoir - a Penske sport shock without the reservoir runs about $600.
Just found that WP has shoucks for the VFR..all years too. Wooo hooo Now I know where I'm heading, as the price makes up for the wait.
I have an Ohlins on the rear and Ohlins springs in the forks. The big advantage as far as I'm concerned is that, apart from all the adjustability, there is a remote preload adjuster, so that when I'm two up it's an easy job to set the required preload. Beats the hell out of mucking about with the "C" spanner.
A G5 bike will most diffenitely benifit from a suspension upgrade. However, if cost is an issue, I found upgrading the front end more benifical than installing a new rear shock unless you ride a passenger often. I have ridden the stock G6 bike and the suspension improvements over the G5 bike were quite noticable. If you need your suspension to work better, have it serviced first before shelling out $1000+. A simple service can transform the feel of your bike if done right.
