,
On rebound the fluid flows through orifices in the piston and the damping force is controlled by the unique combination of deflected disk valves with a spring loaded blowoff function. The combination of deflected disc valving and spring loaded blow off give KW’s their unique range of control with frequency sensitivity. This helps the shocks produce both firm control and a smooth non tire shocking ride.
The low speed compression damping adjustment is mostly handled by the foot valve. The low speed fluid flow is shown in green. When the adjusting knob is turned, the spring preload on the needle valve controlling low speed fluid flow is increased, this increases the initial force needed to open the valve. When high speed flow needs to be controlled, like when hitting a big bump, the much larger compression blow off valve opens, its fluid flow is shown in blue. This allows the shock to react and absorb the impact. Thus you can have both good control via external adjustability and decent ride.
Our shocks have a large adjusting range which is very handy for the serious grassroots suspension tuner. A big range of adjustment means that a big range of spring rates can be used without having to revalve the shocks. The KW’s adjusters also have consistent discreet adjusting increments which are consistent throughout the range. Most adjustable shocks, especially the lower cost ones, do not have consistency in their adjustments. The damping force adjusting increments varies greatly from click to click and the adjustment range is small.
 |
This plastic cover prevents stuff from getting near the adjuster. Just the thing to keep the salt out.
 |
The compression damping adjuster is on the bottom of the damper body. You use an allen wrench to adjust it.
Our hybrid shock's damping curve can be tailored from mildly digressive to heavily digressive. A digressive damping curve means that there is more damping at low piston speeds. At higher piston velocities, the two stage valving blows open bypassing fluid to where there is less overall damping. Digressive curves give good body platform control while still allowing a decent ride and minimizing traction reducing tire shock and hop.
 |  |
With this year's Speed Week just around the corner, we'll be picking up the pace with both our writing and our wrenching. It's crunch time. Our next installment will cover the installation of some awesome, adjustable suspension links from SPL Pro Suspension. Want to live vicariously through my wrenching and writing? Check out more about Moto IQ Project 240SX Land Speed Racer at the links below. Enjoy!
Project Land Speed Racer 240SX Part One
Project Land Speed Racer 240SX Part Two
Sources:
Be sure to “Like” our facebook page below to get live updates on Project 240SX LSR!
