rear shocks

bighamms · Posted: June 14, 2009, 8:57 pm Post subject: rear shocks

Can anyone point me to a resource that will give me instructions on adjusting the rear shocks. Currently at highest setting

weekendrider · Posted: June 14, 2009, 9:52 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

I use a pair of 14" channel locks with a piece of scrap leather to keep from scaring them.

bighamms · Posted: June 15, 2009, 9:25 am Post subject: Re: rear shocks

so did you just clamp down on a section of the spring??? Or was the clamp position on the housing?

weekendrider · Posted: June 15, 2009, 10:41 am Post subject: Re: rear shocks

Maybe a pic will help?

bighamms · Posted: June 15, 2009, 10:59 am Post subject: Re: rear shocks

Ok, that makes sense. so, what is the best way to relieve pressure from sping (on or off center stand). I have a Clymer manual, but it is surprising vague in regards to rear suspension adjustments. And most of the online articles suggest replacing the OEM shocks as they were apparently no good. Would like to play with the adjustments and make my own determination prior to investing in a new set. Second question....if investing in a new set, do you have recommendations. Ultimately, my goal is to move the upper shock mount about 2" closer to the motor, which i think will lower the bike a bit (may be wrong about that. first bike so i am playing it all by ear).

nudude53 · Posted: June 15, 2009, 11:43 am Post subject: Re: rear shocks

Softening the spring setting will not lower the bike it will only limit your passenger load and smooth out the ride. If you want to lower your bike try the 11" shocks or a lowering kit, That kit will move the bottom mounts back a few inches. Then once you have lowered the bike you will have to deal with the issue of the side stand being too long to use unless you park your bike on a slight decline or modify the stand leg .

bighamms · Posted: June 15, 2009, 11:46 am Post subject: Re: rear shocks

Very good. I am glad I consulted the experts prior to make the adjustment. any clue where I might locate the lowering kit. I immediate hit the web after reading your post but most of the links I found on google are no longer good. any thoughts?

nudude53 · Posted: June 15, 2009, 11:49 am Post subject: Re: rear shocks

I'm not sure where to find them, they were in a box of extra parts that came with the bike when it was purchased a few years ago. I'll try to find out for you.

nudude53 · Posted: June 15, 2009, 12:13 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

These aren't the same as mine but they may work.

www.jcwhitney.com/auto...38/c-10111

weekendrider · Posted: June 15, 2009, 2:25 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

The lowering blocks occasionally show up on ebay. I don't think anyone currently makes them. Shorter shocks can be had from Mike's or the Honda's "Rebel" shocks work well. And nudude is correct, you will have to shorten your side stand(I cut a 3/8 inch off) or find a place where the it will lean to the left.
You will also have to run your rear wheel up on a 2x4 to make it easier to get on the center stand, at least I do.

nudude53 · Posted: June 15, 2009, 2:45 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

The above picture is of a '75 XS650B, I used the 11 1/2" short Mikes shocks on my '73 and it sits just right for me now, It took the daylight out of the rear fender and allows me to sit at a light with both feet flat on the ground. I'm short anyway and the 12 3/4" shocks would have me on my toes when stopped, it looked like I needed training wheels. The only problem I've had with the shortys has been the tire rubbing thru the tail light wires when I carry a passenger, even at the highest spring setting. The lesson learned? Either don't carry a passenger or meet women that eat less.

bighamms · Posted: June 15, 2009, 3:37 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

Extremely valueable information....referring to the idea of finding women who eat less. Funny stuff. Thanks for all the input. I think I clearly understand how to remedy my problem. The shortest shock on Mike's was an 11.5" and is about the same price as the lowering kit. It seems like it would make more sense to upgrade my 34 yr old shocks with a shiny new set. Again, thanks for all the input.

nudude53 · Posted: June 15, 2009, 3:44 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

bighamms: what year model is your bike?

bighamms · Posted: June 15, 2009, 4:05 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

1975. I bought it a month ago, and it was delivered on Saturday. So now I am chomping at the bit to change it

nudude53 · Posted: June 15, 2009, 4:15 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

Ok, here is a pic of my '75 with the lowering kit and other "rat" mods. It can easily be reverted back to stock at any time as nothing has been cut or welded on the bike, something to consider.

bighamms · Posted: June 15, 2009, 4:34 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

Nice work. Your bike looks great. I did a little research on the lowering brackets and found that many people on the net are looking for them. Maybe I'll start with the lowering brackets and if I decide to change out shocks, I may be able to recoup a chunk of my orginal cost. Thanks

nudude53 · Posted: June 15, 2009, 4:40 pm Post subject: Re: rear shocks

You had the right idea the first time, those shocks are 35 years old and it can't hurt to replace them. If you use the lowering blocks you will have to remove the chain gaurd. My personal opinion would be to go the extra $30 and get the shocks.

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