Midwest Suspension Support?

[m7734]

I've been having a terrible time trying to get the suspension settings correct on my 06 gsxr 600. I have had the forks re-sprung & re-valved by gp suspension and also have fork externder caps installed. I have a penske double out back. Where could I take to bike to get some good baseline settings (geometry and sag/rebound/compression settings) and good recommendations in terms of tires (i.e. best brand for the midwest tracks and which size rear tire to run - 180 vs. 190)? Ideally the shop would offer good trackside support, work with me to tweak the settings, and have loads of experience setting up the 06-07 gsxr's.  Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!! 

[benprobst]

http://lithiummotorsports.com/suspension.htm

Rob is the man, great guy and 1st class service. Not to mention he stands behind his stuff better than anyone I have come across.

[Super Dave]

There might be a new Penske support set up in the works.

[RCR_531]

Yes Rob will be at the track to help you with or questions. Give him a call at Lithium Motorsports 1-800-894-7190

[Scotty Ryan]

I've been having a terrible time trying to get the suspension settings correct on my 06 gsxr 600. I have had the forks re-sprung & re-valved by gp suspension and also have fork externder caps installed. I have a penske double out back. Where could I take to bike to get some good baseline settings (geometry and sag/rebound/compression settings) and good recommendations in terms of tires (i.e. best brand for the midwest tracks and which size rear tire to run - 180 vs. 190)? Ideally the shop would offer good trackside support, work with me to tweak the settings, and have loads of experience setting up the 06-07 gsxr's.  Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated!! 

What tracks are you talking about specifically?

[BrettRay76]

Where are you at in the "Midwest"? I would be willing to give you a hand if you are anywhere close or at the same track. No charge.

[alexm]

There might be a new Penske support set up in the works.

That sounds wicked, please tell us more!

[Super Dave]

That sounds wicked, please tell us more!

PM coming toward you, Alex.

[m7734]

Thanks for the responses!

I've come across a lot of inconsistent information as far as geometry in my research thus far. Some people swear by the 190's, while others prefer the 180's. Most everyone I've seen raises the front end of the bike between 5mm and 15mm. However, I've seen some people really jack up the rear end, allegedly in order to get some swingarm angle, and I've seen others run the rear a relatively modest eye-to-eye length of around 320mm. I'm not sure how the 190 vs 180 debate affects these numbers. I also understand that the sag you run has a major effect on the overall geometry - I've seen people all across the board here too. I'm also pretty lost on the whole compression/rebound settings.

The tracks I hopefully be frequenting will be Blackhawk Farms, Road America, Topeka, and possibly Autobahn, Gingerman, etc...

Brett - thanks for the offer! Hopefully we can hook up sometime this season!

[JBraun]

The majority of what you mentioned is relative. For example I know a lot of guys who swear by 190s, but they don't work for me.
You have to make that decision based on your preferences.

Geometry is similar in that regard. Although there is no "magic numbers", you can start with a reliable chassis setup that will allow you to go quite fast, and make adjustments from there based on your feedback. In most cases with modern bikes, the stock setup is good enough to turn really fast lap times. I would duplicate your stock geometry and have a knowledgable person measure your sag and get you some baseline dampening settings. From there, it's up to you to ride the bike and make changes. Just keep good notes, because it's easy to get lost, and that way you can get back to zero.
Bring the bike by the Lithium pit any time. We'd be happy to help out. Theres a good chance I'll be at whatever events Rob is unable to make in the Midwest. So if you don't see the Lithium rig, look for Ex #29

[avdigigeek]

I've had pretty good luck with both of these guys
http://www.superbikeitalia.com/
http://www.turnoneracing.com/

[Gixxerblade]

Call T-Man for a baseline. Heck I am suprised GP didn't give you a baseline considering you gave them your business. Like someone else said though suspension is all about how you feel. Make sure that you track your changes and you will be able to see where you are making up time. It sort makes you "listen" to what your bike is doing.