Front suspension on 700S

[Willie]

Excuse me if posting in the wrong topic but I didn't see one for suspension. I'd like to know if anyone has replaced their front fork springs and if so, what did you learn from the experience?
Based upon my experience with other bikes and after seeing just how much my bike's front suspension sags and cushy the springs are I thought it worth looking in to.

[mollusc]

I know that a few people have used springs from Progressive as well as cartridge emulators.  All the options are pretty pricey I think.  After a fluid change, I find the front suspension to be pretty responsive actually.

[Pete in PA]

There is also the option of a PVC pipe spacer to increase the spring preload.

Can also go up in fork oil weight.

[draser]

my bike's front suspension sags and cushy the springs are

I had the same issue on my 82 Magna (soft suspension, easy bottom out, loose front end), which came with linear springs. I replaced the original springs with progressive wound springs from the 84 model Magna. I also set the sag for my weight (added washers on top of original preload tubes) - check out u-tubes on sag adjustment. All these made a difference and front end feels well planted.
In your case, I'd try adjusting the sag based on measurements to determine how much more spacer is needed.

Ideally, after installing washers per sag measurements, you end up with equal available travel down and up. If you find that your down travel is less than up travel that means your springs are compressed or compression ratio is low for your body + bike weight (you need new springs). You may want to remove 1-2 washers to allow for more down travel and test ride feel. If the bike still bottoms easily new springs are needed.