Bumps and Turns: Ducati Suspension
The Ducati motorcycle is inherently nimble, but some notable improvements can be made to the bike's handling abilities. Non-"S Model" owners should be happy to learn that they are not left out from suspension nirvana. The AMS team regularly equips all Ducati models with Ohlins forks, fork internals, steering dampers and shocks. The key to a well performing motorcycle is having the suspension correctly set up for the rider's weight when in full riding gear. Spring preload must be adjusted to set desired sag so both front and rear suspension components fall within their working range while the rider is on the bike.
Suspension components are not the sole contributor to the feel of the motorcycle or its steering characteristics. Additionally, some models feature adjustable rear ride height, and select superbikes will also have an adjustable steering angle. Adjusting these for optimum performance is not only a good idea, but necessary when making adjustments to the single-sided swingarm bikes' eccentric hub for chain adjustments. When simple adjustments aren't enough, or for the rider who wants Corse-gold, a magnesium "SBK" swingarm is available which is slightly longer than the stock swingarm for superbikes, and it is made of magnesium!
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