Can the rear shock absorber of Kawasaki Z650 be adjusted?
3 Answers
It can be adjusted. There is a rotatable setting at the top of the shock absorber spring. Concept: Shock absorbers (Absorbers) can be mainly divided into two types based on the damping material: hydraulic and pneumatic, and there is also a type with variable damping. Function: The shock absorber is mainly used to suppress the oscillation when the spring rebounds after absorbing shocks and the impacts from the road surface. When passing over uneven road surfaces, although the shock-absorbing spring can filter out the vibrations from the road, the spring itself will still have reciprocating motion, and the shock absorber is used to suppress this spring bouncing. If the shock absorber is too soft, the body will bounce up and down; if the shock absorber is too hard, it will create too much resistance, hindering the normal operation of the spring. In the process of modifying the suspension system, a hard shock absorber should be paired with a hard spring, and the hardness of the spring is closely related to the weight of the vehicle. Therefore, heavier vehicles generally use harder shock absorbers. The device connected to the vibration-damping crankshaft is used to counteract the torsional vibration of the crankshaft.
I've been riding the Kawasaki Z650 for two years and here's my experience: The rear shock on this bike is fixed and non-adjustable, featuring a preload design primarily tailored for daily urban riding. If you're of average weight like me and ride solo on smooth roads, the comfort level feels decent. However, it can feel a bit stiff when carrying a passenger or encountering bumpy roads. This indicates that the factory setup simplified functionality for cost control. If you find it insufficient, you can opt for aftermarket upgrades like installing an adjustable shock, such as those from Öhlins, starting at around a thousand yuan. During installation, ensure compatibility and balance. It's advisable to check the shock for oil leaks or unusual noises during each maintenance session, as timely repairs can prevent bigger issues. While modifications are feasible, avoid DIY attempts—professional shops handle it more safely, given that the suspension system affects riding stability and comfort.
As someone who frequently works on motorcycles, I've observed the rear suspension structure of the Z650: it's typically non-adjustable, featuring a basic mono-shock design with fixed preload, likely because this street bike is positioned as an entry-level model with suspension tuning leaning towards economic practicality. If you feel the suspension is too soft or too hard, it might be due to aging shocks or changes in load; the inability to adjust can affect grip during turns and overall comfort. I recommend first checking the user manual to confirm the settings. If there are no adjustment options, inspect the tire pressure and shock condition. For modifications, you could opt to replace it with an adjustable rear shock, but after installation, you'll need to test the damping and spring to ensure it doesn't disrupt the bike's original balance. Remember, handling such issues requires professional tools and knowledge—don't operate hastily to avoid accidents.
