Setting front and rear preload is absolutely essential to the correct functioning of the DDC system. Once you have done this you will need to recalibrate the system. With regards to calibration this is required whenever adjustments to preload are made which result in ride height changes. This will allow the system to accurately calculate suspension travel and adjust accordingly. Both process are described in the Owner's Manual.
The key to understanding suspension setup is being able to identify what the bike is doing beneath you and more importantly what it is preventing you from doing. This will continually change the faster you go as you will likely encounter different issues as the suspension will react differently as the pace increases. Whilst this is perhaps more pertinent for track riding, given road speeds are much lower, the basic principles of suspension setup are just as relevant. DDC allows you to make changes quickly which is extremely useful.
Also note that any settings you input will vary between Rider Modes as the DDC system parameters differ. Setting preload is a must before doing anything else; but note that suspension setup is all about trial and error, particularly with DDC, so the best advice is to get out and experiment. Importantly, you need to find what works for you and not rely on settings recommended by others as there are just far to many variables affecting setup that will differ greatly between riders.
Finally, it is well worth visiting a suspension specialist to help with establishing a basic setup from which to work from. This is particularly so if you are unsure about the differences between compression, rebound and preload and the effects that each one can have.
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