Topic: CB750 -rear suspension options?

[andy750]

Hi all,

Im looking to upgrade my rear suspension on the K4 this winter and Im looking for opinions from people who have done this already. The pros and cons of other non-stock suspensions. Im 6`4, 190lbs and will be carrying a passenger now and again. Looking for 13-14mm rear shocks that are firm and cost under $200. On my K2 I have 1982 Bol.d`Or shocks I got from Ebay and they are very stiff and so may go down this route again but looking for other ideas first.

Thanks in advance,
Andy

[750essess]

There isn't many options for under $200. The hagon units ( only preload adjust )are around $200 and the IKON's ( preload and rebound adjust )are around $300, both will be a vast improvement.

[eurban]

For modern quality shocks, $200 is probably not enough budget.  Particularly if you want adjustable dampening.  Progressive suspension, Hagon, Ikon, Works Performance, YSS (www.yssusa.com) , Wilbers are a few brands to check out.  I owned a set of YSS 302 shocks briefly (decided the modern styling didn't go with my projects looks and replaced them with a less sophisticated set of Hagons) that offered a huge range of preload adjustability (shock body is threaded) and 50 clicks of rebound adjustment. These were closer to $400 but offer modern technology and a wide range of adjustment.  The stainless steel bodied Hagons I have now are lovely and work nice but offer only preload adjustment in 4 positions or so.  These were around $250.  Progressive shocks should be similar or a bit less in price but not as good quality and not nearly as pretty IMHO.  You will probably get what you pay for.  Replacing stock swingarm bushings with properly fitted bronze ones or needle bearings will make a large difference as well.  Here's a couple of pics of the YSSs and the Hagons

[mlinder]

The progressive setup I got is pretty nice, but there is only preload adjustment.

[GroovieGhoulie]

In a related vein:

Any modern shocks that have superior performance but have chrome springs and chrome bodies and look d*mn near identical to stock units until you're less than six feet away?

I'm trying to keep a dead-stock appearance with improved performance.

[MRieck]

How about a set of them Hyperpros like I got Andy.

[Jim F]

I priced a set of works performance with all the goodies and a piggy back reservoir but very
pricey. about $800
but they said they could build these for the K models

Jim

[eurban]

In a related vein:

Any modern shocks that have superior performance but have chrome springs and chrome bodies and look d*mn near identical to stock units until you're less than six feet away?

I'm trying to keep a dead-stock appearance with improved performance.

Ghoulie-
Check out Hagon's line of shocks.  The set on my bike have black springs but your can get them with chrome springs and shrouds if you like.  The stainless body is only slightly different in color than chrome.  Performance is excellent.  YSS also has a stock looking shock if your check out their website. 

[Jerry Rxman Griffin aka MuthaF'er]

Andy,

I emailed you a copy of my invoice for my new discontinued Koni shocks. Just like what GG wants. I know it's been a few years but they seemed to have a few back then even after they were discontinued and at a very reasonable cost for premium shocks. They are really smooth. If you find out anything positive please post it. 

Jerry

[del105]

I'm not sure if vipex still makes shocks or not but I have a set and they are pretty decent. They are a little taller than stock though. Also they are about $200.00

[andy750]

Thanks I had been wondering about the Vipex shocks versus the Hagon shocks. I also like the longer length as Im 6`4 and like my seat to on the high side.

Sorry Mike but your Hyperpros are outside my budget range 

Can someone explain to me the benefits of adjustable dampening versus only having pre-load adjustment (i.e. Hagons)?

Thanks for all the feedback so far - very much appreciated.

cheers
Andy

[del105]

Can someone explain to me the benefits of adjustable dampening versus only having pre-load adjustment (i.e. Hagons)?

A very simple explanation is you can control how quickly your shock compresses and releases when you hit a bump. I'm sure you can find a bunch of tech articles on the net that discuss damping.

[ColinMc]

Does anyone have a pic of their bike with the Vipex shocks? I like them a lot and the price is right in my budget too...But i'm wondering how they'll look on the CB...

[eurban]

No pic but do keep in mind those shocks are about 1.5" longer than the stockers. If you are quite tall and interested in a more comfortable riding position then perhaps they are a good choice.  If you are using a much lower seat they also might be a good choice.  Stock seats are already pretty high (with a 33" inseam I can only just flat foot on my k8, moving the beast around is a #$%*) and placing your body higher up isn't going to improve handling.  Here's a link discussing suspension setup including a discussion of rebound and compression (no I am not affliated with YSS but they do have good info and products

http://www.yssusa.com/suspension_problems.html

[ColinMc]

I e-mailed Vipex and have yet to hear back from them....anyone order from them fairly recently?

On a similar note, anyone have any experience with the PartsNmore shocks?
https://www.partsnmore.com/cat_index.php?model=cb750_sohc&category=chassis

About halfway down and the price is great....not bad looking either.