Hi, I was wondering if I should invest $400 in a Dampener or spend the money on more track days? I am still in the Novice group and was looking for some opinions? Are dampeners worth the money at the level I am riding at? I currently ride a Honda 600rr totally stock and run regular pilot powers. The bike feels solid but I am getting a little bit faster each time I go out for a day. Thanks
My opinion would be to invest it in suspension with this basic amount of information. Type of bike, bike feel, rider weight, tire wear, combo street / track bike or just track are some questions that may help with the opinions drawn here. Supply a little more information and some others will throw their two cents in as well.
Ditto, Suspension first. You can have the greatest tires and dampener in the world but if your suspension isnt' set up correctly you're screwed.
Imo use the money for more track days and keep learning. Its priceless. Suspnsion is also a very good idea but your bike is very good from the factory and your tires are excellent.
Thanks, It sounds like I would get more performance and stability from some work on the suspension rather than having headshake or a tank slapper happen w/out a dampener. Are we talking just suspension set up or buying new suspension? If a new suspension what brand other than Ohlins is out there that makes a quality product?
Depending on your weight will determine whether or not you need new springs. Also year of bike, miles, maintenance all determine what you should do - inner fixings, fluids, seal kits, etc. There are various companies out there that have aftermarket suspension parts and various people that do the work. Me... I use RaceTech springs and have Ken at Superbike Italia fiddle and set everything. But I am over 200lbs with gear and I needed new springs. There was a discussion on here not to long ago about spring suppliers/manufacturers. Do a quick search and it will pop up.
Im sure everyone here will agree U should wait until your speeds pick up before u really have to worry about suspension. U will soon find out its VERY EXSPENSIVE and if you arent riding past what the bike can do in stk trim save the cash. Also though like what has been said here already if the bike suspension is worn then that changes everything. The guys here wouldnt steer ya wrong.
You are def correct there. I had my stk suspension tuned and yes it made a difference. I also couldnt agree more that if u were to change suspension it would also be a incredialbe improvement im just not sure if he is at the level were he would feel it. I will say that just adj the stk set up I was able to feel the bike working much better.
If you are not getting any head shake then you really wouldn't benefit from a dampener. Most bikes need to be ridden pretty hard (power on coming out of corners or over rises) to get a tank slapper started. Like the others, I would suggest more seat time and as much one on one time with some of the instructors to get you over the hump to the next level of learning. Get a good basic setup, play with it, keep notes, and above all, ride lots. Confidence is what will make you faster so tires and a forgiving bike are the key. Don't forget to have fun.
Thank you everyone for your input. I might have to make a visit to the suspension guy at Grattan this weekend if he is there. Thanks again!
IF its Jason Etter (Department of Suspension) , best $50 you will ever spend. He made my ole 91 Fizzy handle pretty decent . If he can do it with that old girl , he sure as sh*t can do it with a more modern bike. Steering Dampers are overrated IMHO. I don't go fast enough to worry about head shake :lol: Never had a hint of head shake even flat out , at a whopping 142 ( indicated) through the kink @ MO
Suspension, suspension, suspension, suspension, suspension. That emphasis can't be said enough how important is, no matter what your level of experience. In some cases, even more important if you're just starting off. Not only does it help you go faster, it helps you go faster safer. You might be railing around on an old bike, nearly crashing it every time, without knowing it, and/or without knowing that it's because of how it's setup, not how you're riding. I think you can get a steering damper for roughly $100 from Lockhart Phillips also, to start out with.
Thanks again for the input! I'm definately going to see the Dept of Suspension and get a proper set up. My next track day will be at Mid Ohio on July 3rd, I hope he will be there. Any one else going to be attending?
well, for starters, why the hell is everyone calling it a dampener? aren't trackday guys supposed to be the ones that are in the know? it's a steering damper!!! :arrow: :twisted:
i'm not a wizard, just that this should be common knowledge with motorcyclists who are supposed to be the knowledgable ones- the guys that ride on the track. calling it a dampener makes you sound like a stunta- so- yo! keep it real and listen up! - dampeners are for da chicken headz! dampers are where it's at, b. :arrow: :twisted: