Happy 2023, Moto Friends. This was my first event of the year and also my first event at the Antelope Valley Fairgrounds. I had my Ninja's suspension rebuilt this last winter and this was my first opportunity to test settings at an actual event. Turns out I had too much preload on the front forks and I was not getting enough fork compression to get a good turn in from the bike. I went down a full turn on the preload and bingo! The bike isn't fighting me mid-corner anymore. Damping settings feel good but now I must focus attention on figuring out the right idle rate. I kept the idle rate low for this race (2000rpm) but I need to bump it up and find something that will give me better drive and keep the engine loaded a bit more. The bike felt really sluggish at 2k rpm so now I will focus on testing idle rates.
1st place at this event with a time of 1:35.36
DISCLAIMER: Motorcycle riding is inherently dangerous. These videos were filmed in a controlled environment with riders who have years of riding and teaching experience. Lexco Moto Gymkhana and all related personnel are not to be held responsible for any injury resulting from attempting these techniques. Please wear safety gear, know your limits, know your motorcycle's limits, have fun, and always practice in a safe and controlled environment.