Ask Dave: Motorcycle Fork Compression

Fork Compression damping completes the Trilogy or Triumvirate of adjusters that can be found on a set of motorcycle forks. Dave explains what it does, why we should care, etc etc.
And, remember, fork compression dampening moistens a set of forks. Fork compression damping modulates a fork's compression stroke.

[thesickening]

Dave, just wanted to sincerely say, thank you.

I just did my first track weekend in about 3 seasons, and have learned a TREMENDOUS amount about suspension from your videos and DVDs. I was able to correctly set up my bike, help a friend with theirs, identify a rebound problem with my friends shock, and accurately record all data. This was all verified on track by our local club suspension tuner, and I have you to thank for it.

While I still have much to learn, ie reading tires, tire pressure, and becoming overall more knowledgeable about suspension, all of the information you have provide has gotten me leaps and bounds from where I was. I hope that someday I get the chance to thank you in person, and maybe even buy you a beer. Until then, keep doing what you're doing, you are the man!

[reddoggie]

Mr. Moss, thank you so much for sharing your knowledge. I’m learning so much from your videos. You’ve already helped me to be more safe and gain more enjoyment out of riding. Thx!

[BGJuggernaut]

Thank you so much for your videos! I recently purchased a 2017 FZ-10, and after watching numerous videos from you, and editor Dave lol, it gave me the confidence to begin working on my suspension settings myself. Hopefully the next time you visit NorCal, i can catch you. Thanks again!

[pspintoo]

Hey Dave, Wow what genius you are, I tried this n believe me i can feel a big difference while leaning on corners, it gives me more confidence on the corners .Thanks

[michor]

I love your videos, Dave. I've learned so many things already and I always rewatch your tutorials whenever I adjust something.

[CVsnaredevil]

If a spring is stiffer, would the fork require less compression damping and more rebound damping? Would it be similar in the opposite direction? If the spring is softer, would it require more compression damping and less rebound damping?

[hpreventon]

Does compression have to be same with rebound?

[icarlitoswayi]

Thanks for all the videos Dave, where should you be in your clicker range for track riding if your springs are set properly to your weight and ability? Should you be around 60-70% out and why? Thanks in advance!!!

[MrArtisticGuy]

Love your videos . Currently tuning my new mt-09-sp. Regarding my KYB forks; It seems to make sense but I haven't specifically heard you specify if front breaking is considered "slow speed compression" ?? And also, my zip tie seems to be stopping at about 3/4" from the bottom of the lower tube but I'm not able to find any data anywhere to tell me where the bottom limit of travel actually stops relative to the bottom of the lower tube? I would presume that If I grab a hand full of front brake with ABS on, that I would want the zip tie to stop about 1/2" above whatever the bottom limit of the travel is? Thank you for any help you can offer.

[joilsongomes]

my bike came with ohlins suspension in it, the guy said it was set for a 250 pound guy, i m 150 so i bought a stock suspension and installed in the bike. my question is can i set the ohlins i have to my weight? its just sitting in the garage, or is it to hard?

[kosta]

Any real downsides to opening up compression on the street?

[kbartlett]

I get and understand compression on the front. A good tip it to cable tie the fork and be approx 20mm above the bottom out. I've never known how to set rear compression accurately? any tips for setting the compression for the rear?

[plt]

So when we turn it to "+" (which is clockwise here), r we closing the compression valve and making the fork stiffer or opposite? Same question for rebound, when we turn it "clockwise / +" we should close the valve and this will make suspension rebound/extended to org length slower... ?? Thank you Dave in advance.

[subocito]

What is the advantage/disadvantage of having one adjuster (Comp or rebound) in either fork leg, as opposed to both adjusters in both legs?
My 765 Street Triple RS has both rebound and compression adjusters on top of both legs, so I assume there are valves for both, in both legs?

[bandanamuzic]

Dave can you have 2 different compression settings in motorcycle forks?...My current compression setting is a tad too soft... If I go up to the next click (compression) on both forks it's too stiff... Can I jus go up 1 click on just one fork leg?

[eb-vm]

Hello, i'm a bit confused, i though adjuster for compression are always on BOTTOM of the fork, near the wheel axis?

[homehome]

Hi. The term "damping " is the same as "compression" or "rebound" ? Thanks

[JoaoFerreira-qjzp]

Hi Dave and editor,
If you would be so kind to respond, I would lile to know if the age/mileage of the oil only afects its viscosity and damping ajustsments when it's hot, or even when it's cold has an influence?
Other thing is, should my compression be more or less the same front and rear? And what should I test ride 1st front and then read or both at same time??
Thanks a lot,
Cheers :D :D

[dallatorretdu]

Are the forks with asymmetric adjustments (as these) good enough for street and track days use?
I'm investigating whether my choice would be adjustable fork cartridges and springs vs ohlins forks on a retro bike

[NJOwensGoFastAngelYYZ]

Dave, I have confidence in myself to rebuild forks (damper rod and cartridge) but is the rear shock rebuild doable as a home mechanic ??