….What's very puzzling is the sag numbers show it is way under sprung for my 210-220lb weight geared up. It should handle like crap....
….This is the first I've heard about rider weight being a possible factor in how well the suspension will, or can, perform....Am I going to have to plan on a re-spring to get optimum performance from my ES?
I'm 300lbs, minimum. I set the preload to two helmets, and handling is not an issue. I don't know what the sag numbers would show for ME, but yes timebak, weight definitely effects handling. But, it's like Mr. Checkswrecks says, just start with a higher preload. Rebound and dampening will depend on road surface. The wife and I were riding, hit some weird dips, which caused the bike to wallow. Stiffened up from "soft" to "hard", and immediately the bike rode perfect. With my wife and I on the bike, we're at its load limit; and it still handles fine.….As for weight, my son weighs a good deal more than you and is fine on my non-ES with the stock suspension. With an ES, you'll simply pick a higher pre-load which would be about right for me with a little luggage. I wouldn't worry about re-springing a new ES.