Shock air levels

[Draxxis]

Ok, so I'm planning a nice long ride. There will be about a total of 300lbs on the bike (me and the bags loaded down including the trunk). What would you suggest for the air shocks to be set at? I already have the adjustors set to 4, but I'm wondering what air pressure I should set the shocks to.

[doug of so fla]

Kinda depends on, (more info needed),
but just guessing, if your rear shocks are in good shape, meaning your shock oil has been changed to a good new oil within the last 20,000mi you can run 35 to 45 lbs in rear.
IF? front shocks are in good shape, 8psi of air,
or they have been changed to progressive, and your tires are GOOD tires, with 41psi rear and 38 front. you should be good to go.
If not the above you will need to adjust to have best ride to help the XII & you handle the load.
& how far is "long ride" ?
On the XII 1lb of air in any part of the suspension meaning "tires also" will be noticeable in comfort and handling & safety
Hope this helps & enjoy the trip and RIDE SAFE!!!

[Me Again]

personally I would put the adjuster back on 3 . 4 can get pretty harsh with only 300lbs on it

[Me Again]

Pardon me for my windows 10 double post.
Now I just need to replace the second with something else.

[Draxxis]

Ok, so for a little more info:

The shocks are in good shape, the oil had been changed in the last 5k miles. I am planning a 500 mile round trip into Canada and back. The majority of the ride will be on more paved country roads instead of highways.

The front fork air is currently set to 21psi and my rear air is set to 34psi. Yes I know it's a stiffer ride, but I go about 250lbs, and I'm going to be putting about 50 to 60lbs in the bags between clothing, tools, drinks & snacks.

Depending on how things go, I may be adding an additional 110 lbs as a passenger and another 10 lbs of gear. So it's getting loaded down.

The tires are set to their proper air pressures for a heavier load. I just don't want to bottom out when I hit a bump. Don't need that bone jarring feeling when on the bike lol.

[Neal]

Usually 6 to 10 # in the front works. Did you get my PM ?

[Draxxis]

Yes I did get your message. Thank you :-)

Also, more info for everyone:

Front shocks are Kawasaki Showalter and the read are Kawasaki brand too. I think they are all original or at least replaced with oem parts.

[doug of so fla]

Yes I did get your message. Thank you :-)

Also, more info for everyone:

"Front shocks are Kawasaki Showalter and the read are Kawasaki brand too. I think they are all original or at least replaced with oem parts."

"The front fork air is currently set to 21psi"..

FYI::!! Max psi for Kaw XII Showa front shocks is 8.5lbs, you could easily blow the seals with the 21psi with the load you have.