|   Helix Expert fitting GT I-drive 1.0 (Nick if your watching) | Pauluz
Dec 21, 2001 1:15 AM | | I posted this question ealier already, and I now know that it is possible to fit a Stratos Helix Expert or Pro in GT I-drive 1.0 (2001). But still there some mysteries to me. For example, it's not clear if the fitting problems changed for the new I-drive series of this year, i.o.w. are they gone? And what are the problems about, is it just that the valve will be unreachable, or will it snap when the shock compresses? Further for Nick who changed is SIDshock to a HELIX Expert, did you use the original tail of the shock or did you order a I-drive specified Helix or tail?
Thankz everyone,
Pauluz |
| re: Helix Expert fitting GT I-drive 1.0 (Nick if your watching) | Nick
Dec 21, 2001 10:16 AM | | I mounted mine with the main shock body mounted to the rear triangle. The rebound adjuster knob is at the bottom and the schrader valve up top under the seat mast. Once installed though the valve will never move any closer to the frame, it's safe. This is the only way it fits on my frame.
First regarding the fit and air valve, as these problems overlap a bit. With the standard air valve perpendicular to the shock, you cannot fill the air chamber with the shock installed. It will be too close to the frame to get any pump on. You can install an adapter that will set the valve parallel to the shock so you can get a pump on. Otherwise you'll have to fill the air chamber before installation which makes the job just a little bit more involved.
I didn't have this adapter when I got the shock so I pumped it up to about 120# and installed it. Because of the slightly longer i2i length I had to install the top shock bolt first, then use a lever (screwdriver wrapped in shop rag) to slightly compress the shock enough and line up the lower bolt holes. I wiggled the bolt in and tightened everything up and took a test ride.
After a bit of trail and error I found the right air pressure for my taste. I could have done the tweaking in a fraction of the time if I could have changed air pressure without having to half remove the shock every time, so I suggest putting the valve adapter on right away.
I used the original tail too, I don't think the i-drive specific tail is "necessary" but it could make installation a bit easier.
I'll scan a few pictures I have of my setup and post them after the holidays. Sometimes it's just easier to "show you" if you know what I mean so keep an eye out here next week for them.
Since I switched over, the Statos has worked flawlessly and I haven't had to adjust the air pressure at all. The bike feels like it has endless travel and I'd say it's the best upgrade I ever made to the i-drive.
Hope this all helps.
Nick |
| re: Helix Expert fitting GT I-drive 1.0 (Nick if your watching) | Pauluz
Dec 22, 2001 3:10 AM | | Thanks for the info. I'm glad you replied, so now I can order the shock right away. You said that you're riding a Expert? What are yoy thoughts about the pro, is the lock-out worth the money?
I'm looking foreward to see the pictures,
Thankz again and latrz,
Paul |
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