Suspension tuning help on 696

[dankatz]

Just purchased a 2009 696. I weigh 155lbs, probably +10 or so with gear. I ride mostly in and around the city.  What shouold I tune my rebound and preload to? I think the bike is too stiff right now and I want to decrease preload.  How difficult is it to do? On my FZ6 I only have preload adjustment and I have it set to 4-5/7. It's a little hard for me, but I have a passenget once a week and don't want to change it each time.

[Raux]

the stock setup should be fine for you.
adjust the rear shock damper via the screw on the side. about midpoint for solo riding or softer if you want and full right for 2-up riding.

[dankatz]

Thanks, but it was not stock before. I think it was setup for a heavier rider. I'll read the manual and figure it out.

[Veloce-Fino]

Thanks, but it was not stock before. I think it was setup for a heavier rider. I'll read the manual and figure it out.

I weight 159 riding a stock suspension 696. Feels great to me, the research I have done indicates the 696 was pre-adjusted for riders between 160-170.

[mstevens]

The rear spring preload on that bike is definitely set too high for you. No other suspension adjustments (such as rebound) have been made as far as I know.

You'll need to get a wrench for the rear preload adjustment nut. Just make sure you get one that'll fit your bike.

Check page 57 of the manual for particulars. If you set it back to stock, it should be just about right for your weight. Stiffen it up a bit if you plan to ride 2-up, but as it is now I'll bet it's a little high even for that.

[dankatz]

Thanks for the advice. I read page 57 of the manual and they mention a pin wrench. Is that a special wrench or can I use any wrench? If special, do I need to get it from the dealer or is it in the tools that come with the bike? There is a special wrench I have to use for my Yamaha FZ6, but it comes with the tools.

[mstevens]

It's sort of special - it needs to be one that'll fit the Sachs rear shock, but those aren't terribly hard to find. For whatever reason, Monsters don't come with them.