Spring Rate Calculator Guide
Quick Reference Calculator
Fork Springs (WP XACT)
Rider Weight (lbs) | Spring Rate | Notes |
---|---|---|
140-160 | 4.2 N/mm | Light riders, technical terrain |
160-180 | 4.4 N/mm | Stock rate, balanced performance |
180-200 | 4.6 N/mm | Heavier riders, aggressive riding |
200-220 | 4.8 N/mm | Heavy riders, high-speed sections |
220+ | 5.0 N/mm | Very heavy riders or extreme loads |
Shock Springs (WP XACT)
Rider Weight (lbs) | Spring Rate | Sag Target |
---|---|---|
140-160 | 45 N/mm | 105-110mm |
160-180 | 48 N/mm | 105-110mm |
180-200 | 54 N/mm | 105-110mm |
200-220 | 57 N/mm | 105-110mm |
220+ | 60 N/mm | 105-110mm |
Utah Hard Enduro Adjustments
Why Utah Requires Different Spring Rates
Utah’s unique terrain characteristics:
- Rock gardens: Require softer initial stroke for grip
- Ledges and drop-offs: Need progressive support
- Sand washes: Benefit from slightly stiffer setup
- High altitude: Less air resistance affects suspension feel
Adjustment Factors
Add to Base Rate:
- Technical rock riding: -0.2 N/mm (fork)
- High-speed desert: +0.2 N/mm (fork)
- Carrying gear/tools: +3 N/mm (shock)
- Extreme technical only: -3 N/mm (shock)
Spring Rate Formula
Fork Spring Calculation
Base Rate = (Rider Weight + Gear Weight) × 0.023
Utah Adjustment = Base Rate ± 0.2 N/mm
Shock Spring Calculation
Base Rate = (Rider Weight + Gear Weight) × 0.27
Utah Adjustment = Base Rate ± 3 N/mm
Real-World Examples
Example 1: 180lb Rider, Technical Focus
- Gear weight: 20lbs (protection, hydration, tools)
- Total weight: 200lbs
- Fork calculation: 200 × 0.023 = 4.6 - 0.2 = 4.4 N/mm
- Shock calculation: 200 × 0.27 = 54 - 3 = 51 N/mm
Example 2: 200lb Rider, Mixed Terrain
- Gear weight: 25lbs
- Total weight: 225lbs
- Fork calculation: 225 × 0.023 = 5.2 (use 5.0 N/mm)
- Shock calculation: 225 × 0.27 = 60.75 (use 60 N/mm)
Spring Options by Model
KTM 300 XC-W (2020-2025)
- Stock fork: 4.4 N/mm
- Stock shock: 48 N/mm (165-185lb riders)
- Available rates: 4.0-5.2 (fork), 42-66 (shock)
Husqvarna TE 300 (2020-2025)
- Stock fork: 4.4 N/mm
- Stock shock: 48 N/mm (165-185lb riders)
- Available rates: 4.0-5.2 (fork), 42-66 (shock)
Installation Tips
Fork Spring Replacement
- Remove forks from triple clamps
- Drain oil completely (measure amount)
- Remove spring retainer and spacers
- Note preload spacer configuration
- Install new springs with same spacer setup
- Refill with WP fork oil (SAE 5)
- Set oil height: 110mm (air gap)
Shock Spring Replacement
- Remove shock from bike
- Use spring compressor for safety
- Note preload ring position (measure)
- Swap springs maintaining same preload
- Check free sag: 35-40mm
- Adjust preload for proper race sag
Fine-Tuning After Spring Change
Compression Damping
- Softer springs: Reduce compression 2-3 clicks
- Stiffer springs: Increase compression 2-3 clicks
Rebound Damping
- Match to new spring rate
- Faster rebound for stiffer springs
- Test with “push test” - should return smoothly
Common Mistakes
- Ignoring gear weight - Add 20-30lbs for typical setup
- Wrong sag measurement - Measure with full riding gear
- Mismatched rates - Front/rear balance is critical
- Overlooking oil level - Affects spring rate progression
- Not adjusting damping - Must match new spring rates
Professional Setup Service
Mountain Goat Sports offers complete spring rate analysis and installation:
- Rider weight assessment
- Riding style evaluation
- Spring selection and ordering
- Professional installation
- Suspension revalve if needed
- Test ride and adjustment
Contact us for personalized spring rate recommendations based on your specific riding style and preferred Utah trails.