Installing a ZX600 shock: Difference between revisions

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2. If you have a portable air tank, set the tank to the pressure you want to put in the shock, then let them equalize. This works whether you want to raise or lower the shock pressure. Don't trust the gauge on the tank; use your precision tire gauge on the tank's Schrader fill-valve.

If you put a tire gauge on the air hose, some of the shock oil may leak out. Try putting the bike on its centerstand to minimize ~~this possibility~~. If this happens too many times, plan on either topping it off or changing the oil again.

If you put a tire gauge on the air hose, some of the shock oil may leak out. Try putting the bike on its centerstand and adding a pump of air before checking pressure, to force any potential oil back into the shock and minimize leakage. If this happens too many times, plan on either topping it off or changing the oil again.

Max psi is 28, so be careful. It doesn't take much to get that high. Pressure settings are a matter of personal preference. One rider with an "A" series ('85-'87) uses about 15-20 psi. A different member with an "A" series says he uses about 5 psi around town and increases it to 20 for sporting weekend rides. One person with a newer "C" series ('88-'97) shock said that he usually found the shock to be stiff enough without any air in it. All of these guys weigh in the 140-150 lb. range. You'll have to test for yourself and see what works for you. Be careful when adding air, though.

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 . If you have a portable air tank, set the tank to the pressure you want to put in the shock, then let them equalize. This works whether you want to raise or lower the shock pressure. Don't trust the gauge on the tank; use your precision tire gauge on the tank's Schrader fill-valve.
-If you put a tire gauge on the air hose, some of the shock oil may leak out. Try  putting the bike on its centerstand to minimize this possibility.  If this happens too many times, plan on either topping it off or changing the oil again.
+If you put a tire gauge on the air hose, some of the shock oil may leak out. Try putting the bike on its centerstand and adding a pump of air before checking pressure, to force any potential oil back into the shock and minimize leakage.  If this happens too many times, plan on either topping it off or changing the oil again.
 Max psi is 28, so be careful. It doesn't take much to get that high.  Pressure settings are a matter of personal preference. One rider with an "A" series ('85-'87) uses about 15-20 psi. A different member with an "A" series says he uses about 5 psi around town and increases it to 20 for sporting weekend rides. One person with a newer "C" series ('88-'97) shock said that he usually found the shock to be stiff enough without any air in it. All of these guys weigh in the 140-150 lb. range. You'll have to test for yourself and see what works for you. Be careful when adding air, though.