[Kurlon]

What's the suggested suspension buildup on an EX500 for Production Twins. My read of the rules says the rear shock can be replaced. (Maybe a longer unit to raise the bike?) Up front I think you can do springs, not sure if emulators are allowed?

[McBiggity]

emulators are allowed.

[l3uddha]

you had mentioned the works performance rear shock. I was considering it for my GS, but Pete at GMD told me it was garbage.

[gmdboston]

Rear shocks can be replaced, Forks can be revalved.

[Kurlon]

Is it worth while trying to raise the rear for clearance when replacing the rear shock, or does that introduce too many new issues?

[gmdboston]

Originally Posted by Kurlon

Is it worth while trying to raise the rear for clearance when replacing the rear shock, or does that introduce too many new issues?

They are already lacking trail so while the clearance helps in one area, you'll lose mid corner feel and grip. The EX was never supposed to be a race bike, and while it does make a great entry level platform from a financial stand point, don't get too emotionally involved with it. Try racing with it and if you feel like racing some thing you will stick with get some thing that is a little more race focused.

[Kurlon]

Fair enough.

Last annoying question... if I really do like flogging the EX on the track, and decide that I can forgo PT after a year, opening up the range of allowable mods, is there any hope for the EX or is it really time to find a new mount?

[gmdboston]

That bike has been around since 1997 and no one been able to make it go faster with out blowing up. Try racing, if you like it, get a real motorcycle and use the EX for a door stop.

[Kurlon]

Hah, I'd ask how you REALLY feel...

Ok, so I think that gets me up to speed on the EX. Danke.

[KB]

He would have told you how he "really" felt either way.

And that's that.

KB