Suspension for chubbies

[buffmaster]

Dear Jeremy,
I just recently got a '98 KX 250 that was probably set for some scrawny little mx'er and I'd like to get it set up for my larger that average buttocks. I'm 6'0" & 250lbs. It's going to mostly be a play/trail bike that will probably race cross country stuff, w/ a possible mx or two thrown in, in the future. I'm a beginner/novice(had a '72 DT250 when I was 14) and haven't spent much time on the bike as of yet, due to weather and other conflicts. Any and all help will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[MACE]

Allright another full sized dude.

(*High five*)

Due to your novice status, my inexpert advice is to enjoy the low seat height caused by the springs being set up for a flyspeck motocrosser. When you are very comfortable with the bike you will probably want to increase the spring rate (new springs) especially in the rear.

As a novice, you need to learn a lot about basic technique (like keeping your elbows up and look where you want to go - you go where you look). Optimizing your machine comes later.

 

[Jeremy Wilkey]

Buffmaster,
You will need .46's and a 5.4 in the rear when the time comes. I agree with Mace.. It's best to sort out your riding first. After you begin to have issues with it's perfromance, then make changes...

Regards,
Jer

 

[ramair350]

I was in a simular situation ... I am 6'2" / 220lb and recently got a KX250. I used to race a CR125 10 years ago, but if I raced today I would be in the 250 beginner class for sure. I also do mostly playriding, but will have a few cross-country & mx races thrown in.

Anyway, I referred to the race-tech website for spring rate recommendations. I went with .46's in the front, and let me tell you, those babies are stiff! Quite honestly, I probably could have gone with .44s and been better off. Since you are 30 lbs more than me, the .46s would be just right for you. I have only adjusted the preload on the stock rear spring, and that feels fine for now.

Have fun!



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1995 (fork leakin' & plug foulin') KX250