That's a pretty common swingarm twist. You really should take it completely off and level it on a flat work area.
I straighten them using a really good vice on a bench with really good clamps and a big ole 2x4. To check it, you need a really good level. You lay the swingarm flat so the swingarm-pivot-axis is level. Then adjust the arms until the wheel-axle is level. You pry one arm against the other.
I would not recommend trying to compensate by changing the preload on the shocks. they are not going to bend the swingarm straight. That will only stress out the swingarm bearings and will make the swingarm bind. The shorter side is already preloaded more than the long side.
If you straighten it while it's on the bike, you risk damage to the bearings. You don't want to put any twisting stress on the pivot bearings.
You may just want to wait until you are going to change the rear tire. Then you'll have it halfway disassembled anyway.
Post edited by: loudhvx, at: 2006/04/17 02:59
