What To Know
- Tighten the bolts on the top of the forks first, then tighten the bolts on the bottom of the forks.
- Tighten the bolts on the top of the shock first, then tighten the bolts on the bottom of the shock.
- The cost of lowering your Versys 650 will vary depending on whether you do the work yourself or take it to a mechanic.
If you’re looking to lower your Kawasaki Versys 650, you’re in the right place. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to lower your bike safely and effectively.
Why Lower Your Versys 650?
There are a few reasons why you might want to lower your Versys 650. Perhaps you’re shorter and find it difficult to reach the ground when you’re stopped. Or maybe you just want to improve the handling and stability of your bike. Whatever your reasons, lowering your Versys 650 is a relatively simple process that can make a big difference.
What You’ll Need
Before you start, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials:
- Socket wrench set
- Torque wrench
- 17mm socket
- 19mm socket
- 22mm socket
- 24mm socket
- Allen wrench set
- Measuring tape
- Level
- Jack stands
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Bike
Before you start working on your bike, make sure it’s parked on a level surface and in neutral. Use jack stands to support the bike and remove the seat.
2. Remove the Front Forks
Use a 17mm socket to loosen the bolts on the top of the front forks. Then, use a 19mm socket to loosen the bolts on the bottom of the forks. Once the bolts are loose, carefully remove the forks from the bike.
3. Shorten the Front Forks
Use a measuring tape to measure the length of the front forks. Then, use a hacksaw to cut the forks to the desired length. Be sure to cut the forks evenly on both sides.
4. Reinstall the Front Forks
Once the forks are shortened, reinstall them on the bike. Tighten the bolts on the top of the forks first, then tighten the bolts on the bottom of the forks.
5. Remove the Rear Shock
Use a 22mm socket to loosen the bolts on the top of the rear shock. Then, use a 24mm socket to loosen the bolts on the bottom of the shock. Once the bolts are loose, carefully remove the shock from the bike.
6. Shorten the Rear Shock
Use a measuring tape to measure the length of the rear shock. Then, use a hacksaw to cut the shock to the desired length. Be sure to cut the shock evenly on both sides.
7. Reinstall the Rear Shock
Once the shock is shortened, reinstall it on the bike. Tighten the bolts on the top of the shock first, then tighten the bolts on the bottom of the shock.
8. Adjust the Suspension
Once the forks and shock are reinstalled, you’ll need to adjust the suspension to compensate for the lower ride height. Start by adjusting the preload on the front forks. Turn the preload adjusters clockwise to increase the preload, and counterclockwise to decrease the preload. Next, adjust the rebound damping on the front forks. Turn the rebound damping adjusters clockwise to increase the damping, and counterclockwise to decrease the damping. Finally, adjust the compression damping on the rear shock. Turn the compression damping adjuster clockwise to increase the damping, and counterclockwise to decrease the damping.
Tips
- If you’re not comfortable working on your bike, it’s best to take it to a qualified mechanic.
- Be sure to measure the forks and shock carefully before cutting them. If you cut them too short, you could damage your bike.
- When adjusting the suspension, start with small changes and test ride your bike after each adjustment. This will help you find the settings that are best for you.
Recommendations
Lowering your Kawasaki Versys 650 is a relatively simple process that can make a big difference in the way your bike rides. By following the steps in this guide, you can lower your bike safely and effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much will it cost to lower my Versys 650?
A: The cost of lowering your Versys 650 will vary depending on whether you do the work yourself or take it to a mechanic. If you do the work yourself, you can expect to spend around $100 for parts and tools. If you take it to a mechanic, the cost will likely be around $200-$300.
Q: How long will it take to lower my Versys 650?
A: If you’re working on your bike yourself, you can expect to spend around 2-3 hours lowering it. If you take it to a mechanic, they should be able to lower it in about an hour.
Q: Will lowering my Versys 650 affect the handling?
A: Lowering your Versys 650 will slightly affect the handling. The bike will be more stable at low speeds, but it may be less stable at high speeds. You may also need to adjust the suspension to compensate for the lower ride height.
