Forks very soft?

[KTM21]

I have noticed that the forks on my dt125r are really soft. Even when front braking a little bit, they seem to compress quite a lot. Can anyone tell me how I can make them stiffer. I have heard about changing the oil to a thicker grade but I am not sure what oil to choose.

[Stu]

you need to know what oil is in it first of all

[Tango]

It's a trail bike.....the forks are supposed to have a fair bit of travel......

[megawatt]

Try putting more oil in, about 30ccs in each. It will decrease the air gap and stiffen the springing.

[KTM21]

Try putting more oil in, about 30ccs in each. It will decrease the air gap and stiffen the springing.

Any idea what oil to add? I don't know what's already in there.

[KTM21]

Just did some looking and found that it is 10w oil.

[megawatt]

The oil viscosity will affect the speed that the forks compress and rebound, not necessarily the softness of the ride. Add the same weight oil to reduce the airgap and increase the spring stiffness. You could add spacers to the top of the springs, but if you get em too long the fork springs will coil bind and they could throw you off the bike. I could sort it for you, but I'm near Hastings.

[KTM21]

Thanks for the offer but I think you think i'm in Ashford, Kent but i'm in Surrey. Thanks for the advice though, I will have a look tomorrow.

[Joeman]

Just did some looking and found that it is 10w oil.

 

Not all leaked out??

Also, have you been eating lots lately?? the DT125 is sprung for a lightweight Japanese sushi muncher- not a huge hunk of European lard!

[megawatt]

I know you,re in Ashford ,Surrey. I offered, because I can sort it and you,re not on the other side of the world.