robertmtz
Tuned and Synch'ed
I thought Forum readers might want to read my impression of the Hyper Pro suspension upgrades I've installed on my 07 Norge. A couple of months ago, our guzzitech mentor, Todd Egan, installed the Hyper Pro rear shock. Last week, we did the front fork upgrade - consisting of Hyper Pro spring, heavier weight fork oil, and a cartridge emulator.
The factory Norge suspension struck me as undersprung and too soft. I had to remove the center stand and crank up the rear preload near the max and the front preload at the max. Even then, I found the bike tended to "float" and that it was difficult to corner with accuracy. (My reference point is an 06 Ducati Multistrada 1000s with Oehlins.) I enjoyed the Norge, but would not trust it for aggressive riding.
The Hyper Pro rear shock was a big help in that the bike was more "taut" and I could ride it quicker and with more confidence. However, with the rear shock changed but the OEM still up front, the bike was not really in balance and I had to compensate to deal with the uncertain front end. It was better, but not great. It was headed in the right direction, from "touring" towards "sport," but I felt that the emphasis was towards the former. What I wanted was the latter.
I put about 150 miles on the bike yesterday with both front and rear upgrades installed. I liked the improved stiffness of the front and the floating sensation was gone. However, on typical freeway surfaces, especially with rain grooves, the ride was very harsh. I thought I had given up too much ride quality as on some roads the experience was jarring.
Today, however, I took two clicks off the rebound damping of the rear shock. (Todd had made this recommendation but that I had not made the adjustment.) The difference was amazing! It turns out that the problems I experienced yesterday had nothing to do with the front shock. The rear shock rebound was too extreme and that affected the handling both fore and aft.
This morning, I went about 45 miles up Angeles Crest and the results were very satisfying. I was able to ride quickly, but safely, with aggressive corner entry and exit. Before, even with the rear improved, I would not have trusted the bike at these speeds. Now, the Norge cornered accurately and directions could be changed quickly and with confidence. The suspension was poised under all road conditions. The bike would take the line I wanted rather go where the bike would take itself. It was fine on the freeways coming back home -- stable, secure and accurate. Mission accomplished!
Todd did a great job in the installation and completed the work at what I felt was a reasonable price. Overall, I think this was an excellent investment and one that helps to realize the terrific potential of this bike.
Bob M
The factory Norge suspension struck me as undersprung and too soft. I had to remove the center stand and crank up the rear preload near the max and the front preload at the max. Even then, I found the bike tended to "float" and that it was difficult to corner with accuracy. (My reference point is an 06 Ducati Multistrada 1000s with Oehlins.) I enjoyed the Norge, but would not trust it for aggressive riding.
The Hyper Pro rear shock was a big help in that the bike was more "taut" and I could ride it quicker and with more confidence. However, with the rear shock changed but the OEM still up front, the bike was not really in balance and I had to compensate to deal with the uncertain front end. It was better, but not great. It was headed in the right direction, from "touring" towards "sport," but I felt that the emphasis was towards the former. What I wanted was the latter.
I put about 150 miles on the bike yesterday with both front and rear upgrades installed. I liked the improved stiffness of the front and the floating sensation was gone. However, on typical freeway surfaces, especially with rain grooves, the ride was very harsh. I thought I had given up too much ride quality as on some roads the experience was jarring.
Today, however, I took two clicks off the rebound damping of the rear shock. (Todd had made this recommendation but that I had not made the adjustment.) The difference was amazing! It turns out that the problems I experienced yesterday had nothing to do with the front shock. The rear shock rebound was too extreme and that affected the handling both fore and aft.
This morning, I went about 45 miles up Angeles Crest and the results were very satisfying. I was able to ride quickly, but safely, with aggressive corner entry and exit. Before, even with the rear improved, I would not have trusted the bike at these speeds. Now, the Norge cornered accurately and directions could be changed quickly and with confidence. The suspension was poised under all road conditions. The bike would take the line I wanted rather go where the bike would take itself. It was fine on the freeways coming back home -- stable, secure and accurate. Mission accomplished!
Todd did a great job in the installation and completed the work at what I felt was a reasonable price. Overall, I think this was an excellent investment and one that helps to realize the terrific potential of this bike.
Bob M