u/ImpressiveAd8224

We’re dialing in a Superkop lever espresso machine using a Comandante C40 MK4 (Red Clix) and Illy Classico beans.

Issue
Espresso tastes sharp and dry (bitter), and lever resistance is inconsistent.

What we tried

15 clicks → too little resistance (too loose flow)
14 clicks → too much resistance (very heavy lever)
Dose tested: 17–18 g
At 14 clicks + 17–18 g → lever too heavy
At 15 clicks → almost no resistance

Any advice on how to improve?