Offset on a supermoto

Changing the triple clamp offset and the fork feet offset in a supermoto can both influence the bike's handling characteristics, but they affect different aspects of the steering geometry. Here's a comparison of how adjusting these two parameters may impact the performance of a supermoto.

Triple Clamp Offset:

Influences Trail and Rake:
Adjusting the triple clamp offset changes the distance between the centerline of the fork tubes and the steering axis. This alteration affects the trail (horizontal distance between the front and rear tire contact patches) and rake (angle of the fork tubes in relation to the vertical axis).

• Increasing the offset (reducing trail) makes the bike more responsive and quick in steering.
• Decreasing the offset (increasing trail)  should, on paper, make the bike steer slower and improve stability.
  But for some reason (perhaps the large number of factors involved in the driving behavior of the bicycle) less offset often results in a supermoto that turns sharper and is more precise.

Agility vs. Stability:

• Larger offset makes the bike more agile and nimble, suitable for quick direction changes.
• Smaller offset provides more stability, especially at higher speeds.

Quick Steering Response:

• A smaller offset contributes to quicker steering response, beneficial for navigating tight and technical sections.

Fork Feet Offset:

Changing trail at the axle is better than at the clamps. The more offset at the triple clamps, the more the rider will feel the weight of the fork tubes when steering. 

Affects Trail and Rake as Well:

Adjusting the fork feet offset also influences the trail and rake, similarly to changing the triple clamp offset.

• Increasing the offset (moving the axle forward) tends to reduce trail, making the bike more responsive.
• Decreasing the offset (moving the axle backward) increases trail, improving stability.

 

Weight Distribution:

Changing the fork feet offset can influence weight distribution on the bike. A lower offset may shift more weight to the front wheel, improving front-end traction and control.

Suspension Dynamics:

Altered fork feet offset can affect the suspension dynamics, including how the front suspension compresses and rebounds. It may impact the feel of the front end during braking, cornering, and acceleration, you will experience a more direct input from the frond end.
When reducing the offset there wil be less tress and wear and tear on the internal components due to the smaller leverage effect.

Rider Feedback:

Riders may feel changes in the bike's responsiveness and stability. Some riders prefer a more nimble and responsive feel, while others prioritize stability, especially at higher speeds.

Surface Conditions:

Consider the type of surfaces the rider encounters. A lower offset might be more suitable for quick transitions on smooth pavement, while a higher offset may provide better stability on mixed or off-road surfaces.

Experimentation:

As with other bike setup adjustments, finding the optimal fork feet offset often involves experimentation. Riders may need to test different settings to determine what works best for their riding style and the specific demands of their racing or riding conditions.
It's important to note that changing the fork feet offset is just one aspect of fine-tuning a supermoto's handling. Riders should consider this adjustment in conjunction with other factors like triple clamp offset, suspension settings, and tire choice to achieve a balanced and personalized setup.