HM,

You're not a lightweight as far as the Japanese are concerned, mate! I'm only 12st in rig and I needed full rear preload to get the correct rider sag measurement at the back. Likewise, I ran (past tense 'cos I've now got aftermarket shock and modded forks) full rear compression and 4 clicks out from max rebound. Firm but ample compliance.

Up front, my OE settings were 2 rings preload showing; 10 clicks out from max on compression (quite a bit less than 'standard') but rebound increased to 3 clicks from max. Tyre pressures (BT020 front and rear:poke: :) ) were (and still are) 37 rear/34 front. If you're a bit of a demon braker and prefer the front to hold up under braking, then my compression settings will be a shade too soft. I liked 'em that way because they allowed the wheel to track better over small bumps and ripples. Better compliance or less dive on the brakes - your call:)

I reckon the biggest cause of your current concerns are the mis-matched tyres, amplified by the lowered forks and 'soft' rear end setting. The bike's balance will be all over the shop as it is, so I'd start by cranking the back end up and putting the forks back to standard in the yokes. And bin that Metzeler as soon as you can afford it!

Hope this helps,

:cheers:

Mike