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Author Topic: rear shocks  (Read 1110 times)
Jersey mike
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Brick,NJ


« on: June 03, 2014, 05:23:42 PM »

hey all,

as I go through the thread topics here I see a bunch of posts regarding changing to progressive shocks but there seem to be many different variations and choices.

why do some use one length and others a smaller length?

to be honest I've never considered changing out my shocks and like the ride of the OEM ones, but now after reading the posts about how the change was so noticeable maybe it's something that I should consider...for next year.

i'm not a big guy 155lbs and the pass seat is hardly ever used.
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Valkorado
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VRCC DS 0242

Gunnison, Colorado (7,703') Here there be twisties.


« Reply #1 on: June 03, 2014, 07:20:00 PM »

Mike I'd say if your OEM shocks aren't giving you problems save yourself a headache and a wad of cash and ride 'em like there's no tomorrow.  With the scenario you describe, they'll probably outlast you.
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Ken Tarver
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North Mississippi


« Reply #2 on: June 03, 2014, 07:27:19 PM »

agree with Valkorada
keep what you got till something goes wrong


ken
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Paxton
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So Cal


« Reply #3 on: June 03, 2014, 07:40:37 PM »

The reason I installed shorter progressive shocks was to compensate for my short stature. Roll Eyes
I can now reach the pavement while standing in place. I like their feel and their looks but the OME shocks are second to none.  Wink
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PhredValk
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Edmonton, Alberta, Canada


« Reply #4 on: June 03, 2014, 08:05:45 PM »

Be aware that with shorter shocks the tire gets a little closer to the fender, and may bottom out more on big bumps; and that your pegs get closer to scraping in turns.
Fred.
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rhinor61
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Posts: 188


Northern California


« Reply #5 on: June 04, 2014, 01:01:12 AM »

ARe you still riding around on shocks that at 11 to 13 year old?

Shock technology is much better than what was installed by the OEM so many years ago.

Things like tires, shocks, belts, hoses and motor oil has useful life and it measure by time not mileage.

First thing I do when I buy a used motorcycle is purchase new tires, I dont care how new they look, more than a year sitting in the some spot covered up is going to flat spot them...

Its your money, its your time, its your bike...

I recommend 12.5 hd shock if you run 2 up or weigh over 250 lbs.. otherwise go with the 13" standard if you can touch the ground okay.
I bought the progressive 444 hd...12.5 after breaking a shock, and this past spring I replaced both tires....

AMAZING... ride, did you know the valkyrie can handle a turn quite well when given a chance...

I get new tires ever 12k-15k or 2 years, which ever comes first... usually the mileage does. new tires are smooth...

anyways..
pm if you want to know more...



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John

Northern California
1998 Valkyrie Tourer Black/jade
VRCC #28001
Patrick
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VRCC 4474

Largo Florida


« Reply #6 on: June 04, 2014, 02:49:26 PM »

If you like your shocks, keep your shocks.
I see no need to replace until they need to be replaced. Are they leaking ? If not, keep 'em. Are they rebounding properly ? If they are, keep 'em.
I'm one that switched to Progressive [ 400 series]. Why I don't know. When these need to be replaced, I'll install the ones I took off.
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Farther
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Quimper Peninsula, WA


« Reply #7 on: June 04, 2014, 02:51:03 PM »

Stick with the shocks you have and when/if they need replaced, go with OEM Hondaline Showa.
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Thanks,
~Farther
Shotgun
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Canadian Lakes, Michigan


« Reply #8 on: June 05, 2014, 03:52:15 AM »

I put Progressives on mine and like them.  My OEM's are sitting on a shelf in the Progressive box.  When the Progressives go, I'll probably put them back on but I need to replace the bushings.  Anyone know where I can buy bushings for the OEM's?
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98valk
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South Jersey


« Reply #9 on: June 05, 2014, 04:31:19 AM »

if u have a std/tourer, many have used the I/S OEM shocks for an upgrade.
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bogator
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Valley,Al


« Reply #10 on: June 06, 2014, 05:51:42 AM »

Change your shock bushings, you will notice the difference and they are easy to change out. also they are not costly,
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BF
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Fort Walton Beach, Florida I'm a simple man, I like pretty, dark haired woman and breakfast food.


« Reply #11 on: June 06, 2014, 10:07:45 AM »

The reason I changed from oem stock shocks to 11.5" shocks was so that I could flat foot the bike. 

I was tippy toeing the bike with the oem's on there. 
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