I have a 05 Gsxr1000 and set my suspension at what the magazine suggested for my weight of 155#. Everything seems good except acceleration. When I hit about 130-140 in 3rd the front end shakes like crazy it almost seems like it is floating and hitting the tops of bumps. I wasn't sure if a steering damper would help, it already has a stock one. Or if the rebound on the front is too stiff. Any advice would be great. The front end shake going that fast isn't too comfy.
Actually this sounds like a geometry issue. But... First things first. If you can, visit with a professional suspension tuner. There is no end all be all setting for every rider with the same weight. Also, how much time do you have on your suspension since the fluids were last changed and the components serviced? Also, have you ever set your sag? If so, are your adjusters all the way in one direction or another? Also, what tires are you running? These are all potential issues that will keep your suspension from working properly. Having a knowlegeable suspension tuner service your components, set the bike up for YOU, and make appropriate adjustments while teaching you about your suspension is the perfect combination of getting your bike to handle properly for you. You don't want to rely on a steering damper to help your bike work properly on a regular basis. A steering damper is for emergencies only. If your bike is set up properly then you shouldn't need a damper unless you find yourself in an extreme situation like coming down from a wheelie, off track excursion, or being hit by another rider. The steering damper should never be used to hide handling problems. A steering damper set too stiff will actually be a significant detriment to the handling of your bike and could actually be a potential cause for an accident. If you have some questions and would like to discuss them please feel free to call me at the shop 712-546-7747, or call our head suspension tech Ryan on his cell at your convenience, 712-540-1117.
Could simply be the butt-load of horsepower! Were you possibly hanging on too tight? My GSXR750 was shaking occassionally on the straight at Putnam the other weekend, & each time I was strangling it. A better than stock adjustable steering damper probably wouldn't be a bad idea though.
im gonna want to agree with the "butt load" of power theory.....the front end is just getting light....adjusting the rear might or might not help...personal preference...or try not twisting it so much...but that is the less than ideal suggestion for a race situation....smoother inputs as well...how are you rolling on the throttle....or are u snapping it open...?....