Several PW 80 questions

[erval4]

My wife puts around on a 99 PW80 with my son and I. I dont want to spend much money on it, just make it perform as good as I can. How do you reposition the rear shock? It seems to shift pretty stiff, are there any adjustments on the clutch? The restrictor washer I keep hearing about, is it located where the pipe bolts up to the top end? Any tried and true jetting/needle valve adjustments? Has anyone tried a gearing change? Third gear seems pretty tall for this little motor.
Any help appreciated.
Erik

[okierebel]

For repositioning the shock, there is an extension available to lengthen the shock in it's stock position, gives you about 1 1/2" more seat height. The restrictor is at the end of the pipe where it bolts to the head. I have not had to make any carb adjustments to ours so can't help you there. Good luck. I'll try to find the link for shock extension.

[yzernie]

Had a couple of those a few years back for my sons to ride. Let me see if I can dig deep into the gray matter for some answers.

How do you reposition the rear shock?

Blank stare!!

It seems to shift pretty stiff, are there any adjustments on the clutch?

Are the shifts being made under power? I seem to remember that happening but only while shifting under power. Also, fresh gear oil is that bikes best friend!!

The restrictor washer I keep hearing about, is it located where the pipe bolts up to the top end?

Yes, it is where the exhaust port and the pipe join together. If it is in there they seem to plug up with oil gunk pretty badly. Taking that out will make a HUGE difference.

Any tried and true jetting/needle valve adjustments?

I was at about 2000' elevation and I left the jetting stock and they ran fine. I used premium gas (cause I'm anal that way!!) and since you are in Bakersfield at probably no more that 500' elevation I'd make sure you use a good quality gas. As far as valve adjustments, without knowing how much time is on the engine or if the valves have ever been adjusted, my suggestion would be that they should at least be checked for proper clearances. These bikes were also pretty sensitive to dirty air filters so keeping the air filter clean and properly oiled is important.

Has anyone tried a gearing change? Third gear seems pretty tall for this little motor.

Never changed gearing. If the exhaust restrictor is still in and you take that out it probably will solve that issue.

Any help appreciated.

No problem.

Erik

Ernie