Before riding a new bike or any new suspension parts you need to set up the bike correctly in order to get the best performance.

To get the best from your suspension units you need to adjust the amount of initial movement of the shocks for when you get on the bike, this is referred to as 'sag'. The amount of sag normally recommended for off road riding is up to 25% of the maximum travel available. Refer to the owners manual for the amount of travel available for your bike as each model differs greatly, or measure the movement of the bike with the springs removed.
Example:
Max travel = 89mm
89 / 4 = 22.25
Required sag = 22mm
Taking the maximum amount of travel available and divide by 4 to give you the maximum amount of sag recommended for both the front and rear suspension (if applicable).

Some riders prefer to have only 10-15% of the travel used as sag, but having more than 25% will reduce the amount of suspension available to absorb the bumps when ridden over.

Front-

 First find 2 fixed points for reference and measure the distance between them, again for front or rear. Now get on to your bike and bounce up and down a few times before getting in to your normal riding position, either seated or standing if you prefer. Now ask somebody to measure the change between your reference points to determine the sag that you create.

Rear-

Now use the pre load adjusters to increase or decrease the sag until you are as close as possible to your calculated amount.

 

If you are unable to get the right amount of sag by turning the pre load adjusters to their full extent (3 turns front / 6 turns rear) then you will need to change the springs. For replacement springs for your RST front forks please refer to the relevant parts list, for rear units please consult your dealer.
With the sag set correctly you can now enjoy the full potential of the suspension on your bike, if you have a shock unit that has a damping system then more adjustments might be needed.
Need to know how to set up your damping?

Back to basics.