coreyh

Hey all. I've never had a passenger on my rebel but am looking to have one pretty soon. I know the weight capacity is 350 lbs, which is fine, we're below that, but will I need to adjust my rear suspension? If so, how can I do that and also, how can I tell which position it's in (1-5) right now?

__________________

Fridgitator

The collar on the bottom end of the spring around the shock has numbers on the bottom edge. I weigh about 190 with shoes on, and I find it more comfortable cranked up one notch from factory setting. I think the factory setting is listed in the manual. If no one chimes in, I'll look it up. I used a plastic strap wrench. strap it around the chromed part attached to the bottom end of the spring, Turn it as though you are winding the spring tighter. (you are). You will feel it click from one notch to the next.

__________________

flitecontrol

Not sure what the factory setting is either, so you'll just need to adjust it according to how it rides. For a stiffer ride, use a higher number, lower for a softer ride. There is a small indent on the rear of the shock just below the numbers. The number next to it indicates what level you are on. If the combined weight of both passengers and their gear is near the maximum, start with the highest number and modify it if needed. There should have been a special adjustment wrench in the original tool kit, but if you bought it used, as I did, it may be long gone. If you can't move the shock as Fridgitator indicated, you can take some load off the springs with a C clamp and then turn it. But be careful! If the clamp slips, it can become a flying object!

If you've never ridden two up before, do some research on the internet for tips, and practice in an deserted parking lot or similar safe area. If you dump your passenger the first time you venture out, it's apt to be their last ride! Do some slow speed turns, as if you were taking off from a stop sign, etc. This isn't meant to be a substitute for the research suggested above, but you need to tell your passenger never to put their feet down or try to lean the bike on their own. When you turn, they should look over your shoulder in the direction you are turning. They get on after you have mounted and have both feet on the ground and both hands on the bars. They get off only when you tell them and are in a similar position. Be sure they wear leather boots and long pants to avoid being permanently and painfully branded by skin contact on a hot exhaust. You may also want to tell them they may hear the sound of metal scraping in a tight turn (peg scraping) so they don't freak out. Stay on less crowded roads at first so it is a more pleasant and less distracting experience for both of you.

Enjoy, and ride safe!

__________________
I'm keepin' all the left over parts. I'm gonna use 'em to build another bike!

2001 Rebel 250, 1989 Vulcan 750
Putting your bike info in your signature helps others help you!

coreyh

Thanks for the great advice!

__________________

coreyh

I did in fact buy my bike used, so the tool kit is long gone. Any idea where I can get my hands on a kit? Or even just the adjustment wrench...

__________________

flitecontrol

They show up on ebay from time to time, but someone always outbids me! Honda dealer might have one, but be prepared to pay!

After posting, I decided to look. http://www.motorcycletoolchest.com/category_s/34.htm This would probably do it. If you're handy, could cut one out of a piece of flat steel. Think that's what I'm gonna do. Wish I had the dimensions, would make it easier.

__________________
I'm keepin' all the left over parts. I'm gonna use 'em to build another bike!

2001 Rebel 250, 1989 Vulcan 750
Putting your bike info in your signature helps others help you!

Cadman

just use a rubber strap wrench

__________________

Fridgitator

I forgot to mention- Make sure both shocks are adjusted exactly the same. If the right side is on 4, the left side must be too. You don't get 3 1/2 by setting one on3 and the other on 4!

__________________