what was wrong with the 2001 front suspension?

Found this on the net: http://www.reviewcentre.com/review155130.html

The key statement is:
"Do check the front suspension well, mine was knackered after 5000 kms, and no, I didn't go off road"

Someone then replied:

"What this person complains about in the 2001 model doesn't exist in the 2003 and up models."

Since I own a 2001 SW and I was wondering what they are referring to?

I can't really answer your question as to what they did to change the suspension but I also own a 2001. She only had 1700 miles on her but was 9 years old, had been left out in the elements and the forks had pitted badly,thus damaging the fork seals under compression and losing oil. I bought a second hand set from another old Swing, not sure of the year but also non ABS. The handling was much improved obviously but I ordered and fitted a set of Hyperpro springs after reading so much about them here. The difference is quite astounding. She now handles akin to a motorcycle, taking bends much faster and much more planted on the road. For the cost involved £116.35 delivered, including oil (20w) in my opinion, the best upgrade you can do. (ok, maybe an Airflow screen 1st)

Hmmm, very interesting, thanks Goldwinger. I've often found the front suspenion is the bit I least like about my SW. It tends to lunge forward when I occassionaly have to brake sharply. This can really be quite scarey if it happens once in a blue moon at speed.

To save me looking for the wrong thing in the wrong places, do you have a UK link to the Hyperpro springs? Also what is a standard motorcycle shop likely to charge me to fit them?

Calsport

Where abouts are you? The whole job (remove forks, empty oil, fill with new oil, change springs, refit forks) took about an hour total, very simple. If you're close, I'll help if you need it?

There is no noticeable nose dive now, even under heavy braking or front end lifting under hard acceleration.

Calsport only list 2003 onwards for springs, so I called them and one size fits ALL Swings.

Ian

Hi Ian. That's a very kind offer. I'm over in Borough Green, Kent (not so far from the Oakdene cafe). Canvey Island isn't that far for me to ride over to you.

I'm on Skype most days so you could call me via that or PM me for my phone number. We would need a good day weather wise as my garage is full!!! lol Seriously, it only takes an hour for the whole process, so I'm sure we can sort it out. I didn't change the fork cap seals (didn't engage brain before starting the job) but you may want to get a replacement pair, I don't think they will be very expensive. You can order from here David Silver Honda
They seem to be reasonably priced for parts and are usually very fast posting the items, plus they are helpful if you call them.


Ian

David Silver is supposedly ceasing the sale of parts for 'modern' bikes so I don't know where the Swing will fit in. Another source I have been told of for postal service is Wemoto (www.wemoto.com ) and of course there is always your local Honda dealer !!

Just been on the phone to David Silver and they can provide the fork cap seals at just under £5 delivered. However he asked if I needed the front fork bolts (at £25+ per bolt) and I said I doubted it.

My SW has only done 5K (garaged) so I'm assuming it's the seals I need and not replacement bolts?

The Hyperpro Spring kit is on order from Calsport, but estimated delivery is 2 weeks. Could be more if the factory goes on their 2 week annual summer holiday, but Calsport thinks there's time to get the order through before then.

Re the 20W oil, is this something I can walk into Halfords and buy or does it need a dedicated bike shop?

You probably don't NEED to replace the seals, but for a fiver, it's better to be safe. I do have two spare caps with old seals but, as I said, for £5......

You don't need the bolts and if we did lose, break or magically evaporate one, I have four spares from the old fork steering head. (I bought the complete assembly of head stock, forks, front disc, wheel etc)

Let me know when your springs arrive and we can sort out getting the little buggers installed and getting you a proper handling Scoot!!!

Ian