Thanks heaps for your replies.

Hmmm. Minkyhead, you make a very good point about the 90k spring. I should have asked the question before ordering the shock, but the general consensus was that the 80k spring was heavier than the stock one at 70k. Methinks you are right and people were screwing it down so that the ride became harsh. However, it might be that most riders aren't as heavy as we are... Sigh. More expense. But money well spent in the long term, as the 80k spring clearly is not heavy enough, as you say.

I think I'll give the 15W fork oil a go, and if it all turns to ****e, I'll have to buy the new springs. Simple enough to throw them in without having to drain the oil again. Your point is very valid re excessive rebound control using stock springs, and will probably prove to be correct.

The tall perch might be a bit of an issue, as I use an Airhawk cushion as well. I'm about 6ft in the old measure, but even so the ground is a fair way off even now at times! But far better to have good suspension imo.

Thanks again for your comments. I'll order a 90 spring asap. The fork springs will have to wait a while, but no doubt will be fitted eventually.