As part of performing the first service on my Cali Custom, wanted to see if adjusting the preload and rebound damping on the stock shocks would make a discernible difference in ride quality. THE ANSWER IS A RESOUNDING YES!
Manual says preload for rider only should be 13 (turns from the top), and that for rider + passenger it should be 16. Rebound for rider only should be 15 (clicks from completely closed), and for rider + passenger it should be 9.
As delivered, preload was 9.25 on both shocks, and rebound was 13; not enough preload and too much rebound damping according to the manual.
Addition of Guzzi's leather bags had to be factored in to the adjustment, and I am about 225 pounds, so my rider + bags (no passengers allowed on my Cali) numbers are now preload 14 and rebound 12.
The difference in the ride quality is amazing. I recommend checking your settings and make adjustments according to the manual.
Manual says preload for rider only should be 13 (turns from the top), and that for rider + passenger it should be 16. Rebound for rider only should be 15 (clicks from completely closed), and for rider + passenger it should be 9.
As delivered, preload was 9.25 on both shocks, and rebound was 13; not enough preload and too much rebound damping according to the manual.
Addition of Guzzi's leather bags had to be factored in to the adjustment, and I am about 225 pounds, so my rider + bags (no passengers allowed on my Cali) numbers are now preload 14 and rebound 12.
The difference in the ride quality is amazing. I recommend checking your settings and make adjustments according to the manual.