Just how soft?

[250-R-250]

When I had my elka shocks on the r, I could sit on it, and the shocks would go in about 1-2 inches. Is this normal, I think I can bottem them out by pushing hard on the front bumper. They are valved for I think 160, which +2 arms.

Is it better to have them soft or stiff. I dont know much about the settings. So any insite would help.

[punker69q]

This is normal. If you don't have bottoming problems when riding then they are normal. I can almost bottom my peps while pushing on my bumper slowly, but try pushing down faster and you will feel more resistance.

The hydraulic resistance of a shock absorber is proportionnal to the shaft travel speed, that's why shocks can be smooth for small bumps and still prevent harsh bottom out on big jumps.