Finally got around to the front end on my 99 IS. I had linear springs from Traxxion on my 08 Goldwing and loved them. They didn’t have any for the Valk so I went with Sonic. The website has a spring rate calculator that helps get you in the right direction. I do a lot of two up riding so I got the 1.1 kgmm. They are 1 1/2 in shorter than stock. There were no Bike specific instructions just general info on fluid level and setting preload via spacers. After getting into the fork internals I realized this was going to be a challenge noting the differences in forks and the method for determining correct preload ( 15 mm) just didn’t apply here. I almost bailed and returned them but Jamie at Sonic walked me through noting he had experience with the Valk forks. Turned out instead of adding an additional spacer, I need to cut the existing spacers ( collars) to obtain the 15 mm preload. The method was different for each fork. I cut 13 mm from the right and 8 mm from the left. The only struggle with assembly/ disassembly was that 44 mm beast of a castle nut. But finally with my bench vise, ratchet straps and my daughter ( a weightlifter) on top of it, we managed to torque it to spec in several gut wrenching stages.
The bike now sits up high and proud, with much improvement in the ride, it’s firm and stable. The Galfer front lines are a bonus, I have them on my CB1100 and it’s one finger braking, still takes two with the Valk. I’m happy .... for now.
