ASV Inventions Solo Sag Scale Review

When it comes to motocross and off-road motorcycles, the most critical setting in terms of handling performance is the rear suspension’s sag. Unfortunately measuring sag has always been a hassle necessitating the help of a friend or two, a tape measure and some basic arithmetic. Leave it to the crew at ASV Inventions to make this tedious task easier than ever with its Solo Sag Scale.

Suspension Sag Primer

Suspension sag is measured in two forms: rider sag and static sag. Rider sag is the distance the suspension compresses under the weight of both the motorcycle and rider. It’s the first suspension setting you will need to set before riding. Rider sag is based on the motorcycle manufacturer’s recommendation, rider preference or terrain and is typically 100mm for the rear suspension.

After you set rider sag you need to check static sag to ensure that the shock spring is ideal for the rider’s weight. Static sag is the distance the suspension moves based only on the weight of the bike. If the measurement is less than 25mm, then the spring is too soft. Conversely, if the measurement is greater than 35mm, then the spring is stiff. Either way, a replacement spring will be necessary for optimum suspension and chassis performance.

By establishing the correct rider and static sag, the bike will perform as it was engineered to and will deliver the best performance while riding.

Using the Solo Scale

The $125 tool allows you to measure sag yourself without writing down numbers or making any kind of calculations. Constructed out of high-quality aluminum, the tool measures just under 16-inches long when collapsed and comes in a tough plastic container so you can toss it in your gear bag or tool box.

To use it, first make sure you are on level ground while wearing your riding gear. Screw the rubber plug into the bottom of the tool and insert it in the rear axle hole. Then attach the clamp mount directly above to the bikes’ rear fender. Remove the bike from its stand and hop onto the seat in a forward riding position. Bounce up and down on the seat a few times while directing the majority of your weight into the bike and let the rear suspension settle. Next, reach back and slide the red aluminum block marked “Solo” down as far as it will go. Your sag measurement is now clocked.

With the tool still in place, lift the motorcycle up on a stand capable of elevating the rear wheel off the ground and read the number engraved into the scale. This is your sag reading. Depending on your motorcycle’s suggested sag setting you can now dial-in more or less spring preload and re-check until you reach the recommended figure.

Now you can determine if the shock’s rear spring is acceptable for your weight by checking static sag. Instead of sitting on the bike, it’s measured under the bike’s own standing weight. Slide the red block to the bottom and again lift the bike onto the stand with the scale still in place and the number it displays is your static sag.

Since we’re constantly riding different motorcycles, the Solo Sag Scale has become an invaluable tool in our riding kit. It takes the guess work out of calculating sag and prevents possible handling woes due to improper suspension set-up. The only down side is its price tag. Although it’s on the high side it is in fact a premium quality tool designed and built right here in America. Plus it has a 5-year warranty so if it were to break you’re not left high and dry. If you’re looking for the most painless way to determine your bike’s sag, ASV’s Solo Sag Scale is it.

ASV Solo Sag Scale
$125.00 
www.asvinventions.com