Question on adjusting shocks on Champion IRS kit

[ColoNavy]

I took my "new to me" 2009 GW with a Champion IRS kit on a ride through a canyon near Salida CO this past weekend. All went well except for the handling on the curves where it felt like the lean was way too much. Reading the brochures on the Champion site it says the shocks can be adjusted to stiffen them. My question is what is the best way to approach the shock adjustment as there seems to be no way to adjust the shocks easily?<br />
1. Should I take the wheels off to better access the shocks?<br />
2. Do I need to take the shocks off the frame to do the adjustment or can the adjustment be made by leaving the shocks bolted to the trike's control arms?<br />
<br />
Thanks much for any help and advice.<br />
<br />
Keith

 

[cavie]

Yes, the shocks are adjustible just as they are on my SA kit. Jack it up and remove the rear wheels. You will see how to turn the shock with no problem.

 

[Lee H. Mann]

Mark before adjusting

Yes, the shocks are adjustable just as they are on my SA kit. Jack it up and remove the rear wheels. You will see how to turn the shock with no problem.

The IRS system doesn't have the 5 or 6 position lock on the coil-overs. They are usually factory set in what they call medium. I guess they are bench tested prior to assembling the suspension. I built one that I felt needed stiffening and rotated the spring compressing ring 2 full turns. TOOO MUCHHH.

I rode it single riding and it was like a wagon. Backed it off one full turn and it was greatly improved. Check rear tire pressure and front for proper inflation since this is also overlooked and can be a culprit too.

- - - Updated - - -

I took my "new to me" 2009 GW with a Champion IRS kit on a ride through a canyon near Salida CO this past weekend. All went well except for the handling on the curves where it felt like the lean was way too much.

Reading the brochures on the Champion site it says the shocks can be adjusted to stiffen them. My question is what is the best way to approach the shock adjustment as there seems to be no way to adjust the shocks easily?

1. Should I take the wheels off to better access the shocks?

2. Do I need to take the shocks off the frame to do the adjustment or can the adjustment be made by leaving the shocks bolted to the trike's control arms?

Thanks much for any help and advice.

Keith

Since I just noticed "new to me" in your post, have you inspected the the suspension to see if everything is connected. I hope it has a sway bar and the ends are both attached.