Suspension
Rear Suspension Inspection
The swingarm is controlled by one hydraulic shock
absorber with an aluminum reservoir for oil and
nitrogen gas pressure. The gas pressure in the
reservoir is contained within a rubber bladder.
The rear suspension's spring pre-load and damping
adjustments (compression and rebound) should be
adjusted for the rider's weight and track conditions
(pages 132, 137).
Do not attempt to disassemble, service, or dispose
of the damper; see your Honda dealer.
The instructions found in this owner's manual are
limited to adjustments of the shock assembly only.
• When your CRF is new, break it in for
approximately 1 hour with the standard
suspension settings before attempting to adjust
the rear suspension.
• Refer to Suspension Adjustment Information
(page 137) for making all rebound and
compression damping adjustments in one click
or 1/12 turn increments. (Adjusting two or
more clicks or turns at a time may cause you to
pass over the best adjustment.)
Test ride after each adjustment.
• If the rear suspension is too stiff/soft, adjust it
by turning all the compression and rebound
adjusters according to the procedures
described in page 131. After adjusting the
adjusters simultaneously, suspension may be
fine-tuned by turning one of the compression
and rebound damping adjusters in one click or
in 1/12 turn increments.
• If you have a problem finding an acceptable
adjustment, return to the standard position and
begin again.
92
Servicing Your Honda
1. Bounce the rear of the motorcycle up and down
and check for smooth suspension action.
2. Remove the muffler (page 105) and subframe
(page 40).
3. Check for a broken or collapsed spring.
4. Check the rear shock absorber (1) for a bent
rod or oil leaks.
(1)
(1) rear shock absorber
5. Push the rear wheel sideways to check for
worn or loose swingarm bearings. There
should be no movement. If there is, have the
bearings replaced by your Honda dealer.