[Enduro]

Will small bump sensitivity suffer from a heavier weight oil?

 

[BRacing]

Short answer - YES.

Long answer - depends on fork, dampening settings, spring weight, rider weight, etc.

-B

 

[Enduro]

Ok, thanks, so a heavier oil would not be an option...

I got these problems with my Marzocchi MX forks:
- frequent harsh bottom outs when set up to 25% sag, almost no sag when set up to a single bottom out per ride
- bad small bump sensitivity

because I'm a bit heavier than an average rider, I added 5mm of oil to the recommended 55mm
I still have 7.5WT oil in it, rebound a half turn faster

what can I do?

 

[BRacing]

First I would add another 5mm of oil to the fork. Continue to add oil until you think you've added too much oil. To take oil out, use a straw and place your finger over the end of the straw.

The best solution would be to run heavier springs. This would prevent the harsh bottoming out, and still allow you to run a little sag.

A sneaky little trick is to run springs that are too stiff for your weight/application. Then use a lighter oil (5w). Adjust the rebound to suit your riding style.

Have fun!

-B

 

[Enduro]

Originally posted by BRacing
First I would add another 5mm of oil to the fork.

Thanks man, I'll try that.

BTW: It's an air fork, so it should ramp up, but it doesn't

 

[BRacing]

Duh, i'm sorry. I forgot it's an air fork.

with an air fork, you can add a BUNCH more air pressure, and actually reduce the oil level to a minimum level.

This will keep the small bump absorbtion, and have a ramping spring-rate to prevent harsh bottoming out.

-B