The front and rear preload setting will need to be adjusted for the rider's weight and cargo. This adjustment should be made before the motorcycle is ridden any distance and after changing the overall vehicle weight (adding saddlebags, etc.).
Damping is set at the factory for the average solo rider under normal riding conditions. The rider may make adjustments to compensate for individual riding styles and varying road conditions.
Evaluating and changing the rebound and compression damping is a very subjective process with many variables and should be approached carefully.
Changes in Load
Changes in the load carried requires changes in the preload settings. Carrying less weight than was used for setting up the suspension requires decreasing the amount of preload. Increasing the load carried requires adding more preload.