What fork oil weight are you running?

[gregu]

All
Installing 1.2 sonics. I weigh 240# with supplies. I like fast turns but smooth frwy riding.
Rich suggested most STowners like 7.5 weight fork oil. I wanted to ask...

What weight oil are you running?
How much weight on your ST?
Thanks, greg
PS: Sorry, but ATF is not on my list.

 

[dduelin]

Re: What fork oil wt U running?

Fork oil doesn't measure well using SAE "weight" so weight really makes for a good comparison when staying within the same brand. One brands 10wt may act thinner than another brands 5wt which is the reverse of what "weight" should indicate. This link does a good job of describing some common brands and products:

http://www.peterverdone.com/archive/lowspeed.htm

My preference is the stock Honda oil mixed in a 2 to 1 ratio of 5 wt to 10 wt for a result of 6.7 wt. Honda SS-7 is 5wt and SS-8 is 10wt. I weigh 152-155 in street clothes and about 175 -180 in riding gear. Solo, no pillion, 60 lbs max cargo when traveling (camping).

 

[wjbertrand]

7.5 weight was ok with the OEM valving. I don't think you'll get a really smooth freeway ride without re-valving. I did the Racetech gold valves and 5wt with excellent results.