• Introduction

In ADVMoto Live! #18, host Carl Parker dives into one of the most essential and often misunderstood topics in motorcycling — suspension setup. Joining the show is John Mitchinson, founder of Rally Raid Products UK, to break down the science, tuning, and real-world performance of dual-sport and adventure motorcycle suspension. From beginner tips to advanced tuning, John explains how proper setup affects comfort, safety, and control — and why suspension is the one upgrade every rider should prioritize.

• Episode Summary

Suspension is one of those things riders “feel” but rarely understand. John walks through what makes a properly tuned suspension transform how a motorcycle performs — from handling and braking to fatigue and terrain adaptation. He explains how Rally Raid developed systems for bikes like the Honda CB500X, BMW G310GS, and Yamaha Tenere 700, and how engineering experience from rally racing has influenced adventure and dual-sport design.

• Founding Rally Raid: After building custom rally kits for the KTM 690 and 950, John shifted to creating suspension and adventure upgrades for smaller, lighter bikes.
• Understanding Suspension: Suspension connects the solid frame of a motorcycle to the road surface — keeping tires in contact and absorbing impact. Getting it wrong can affect safety, traction, and control.
• Springs and Damping: John explains the difference between spring rate and damping — and how rebound, compression, and preload interact for balance.
• Custom Setup: Rally Raid builds each kit to the customer’s riding weight, gear, and passenger needs — because one-size-fits-all doesn’t work for adventure riders.
• Electronic vs. Analog: From closed-loop systems on high-end bikes to mechanical preload adjusters on midweights, John compares the pros and cons of each.
• Value Upgrades: The most cost-effective improvement for most riders? Correct spring rates — often under $150 — can drastically improve handling and confidence.

John’s biggest advice: “The right suspension isn’t just about comfort — it’s about control. A properly set-up bike rides safer, smoother, and makes every mile more fun.”

• Highlighted Quotes

“Suspension is the contact between you and the ground — it’s what keeps the bike alive beneath you.” — John Mitchinson

“Get the sag right first — that’s 80% of good suspension.” — John Mitchinson

“Good suspension doesn’t make you faster, it makes you safer.” — Carl Parker

“Adventure bikes aren’t about size — they’re about balance.” — John Mitchinson

• Support & Follow-Up

Learn more at RallyRaidProducts.co.uk for adventure and rally upgrades for bikes like the CB500X, G310GS, and Tenere 700. Visit AdventureMotorcycle.com for more rider interviews, technical tips, and industry features.

• About ADVMoto Live!

ADVMoto Live! is an original adventure and dual-sport podcast for riders who live and breathe the long way around. Hosted by Carl Parker, the show features explorers, builders, and dreamers whose stories inspire and define the adventure motorcycling community.