Author Topic: suspension & brakes oh my  (Read 1446 times)

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Offline wigglethattoe

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suspension & brakes oh my
« on: February 05, 2008, 03:42:47 AM »
Hello again everyone,

Just want to thank everyone who responded to my last posting getting me started restoring my 550F. Now I have the head ported/new cam/ and new dyna ignition. next I am working on suspension. The rear suspension is corroded and somewhat stiff. The forks both appear to have leaks.

Now I ask, about the rear. Where can I get affordable, but not cheap rear suspension replacement?
Next how can I upgrade the forks without going crazy? Progressive springs??
SS brake lines, where can I get them, and for that matter any other items I may need?

And any other ideas about further upgrades I would really appreciate. I have been impressed by the wealth of knowledge you guys have about these classic machines.

Can't wait to hear from you again.

Offline KRONUS0100

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Re: suspension & brakes oh my
« Reply #1 on: February 05, 2008, 06:57:23 AM »
Try oldbikebarn.com
MATT
current bikes:  1976 CB750F, 1981 GS1100E
bikes owned:1981 GL1100I, 1990 GS500E, 1981 GS850, 1977 and 1979 GS750, 1974 CB750, 1975 CB750, and a 1982 GS750E

Offline andy750

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Re: suspension & brakes oh my
« Reply #2 on: February 05, 2008, 06:59:26 AM »
DONT try Oldbikebar.com!!!

Look in the Feedback section for plenty of bad reviews about customer service from them....try Z1ENTERPRISES or PARTSNMORE  - look in FAQ - where to buy my parts section....

good luck
Andy

Current bikes
1. CB750K4: Long distance bike, 17 countries and counting...2001 - Trans-USA-Mexico, 2003 - European Tour, 2004 - SOHC Easy Rider Trip , 2008 - Adirondack Tour 2-up , 2013 - Tail of the Dragon Tour , 2017: 836 kit install and bottom end rebuild. And rebirth: http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php/topic,173213.msg2029836.html#msg2029836
2. CB750/810cc K2  - road racer with JMR worked head 71 hp
3. Yamaha Tenere T700 2022

Where did you go on your bike today? - http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=45183.2350

Offline FunJimmy

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Re: suspension & brakes oh my
« Reply #3 on: February 05, 2008, 09:02:45 AM »
There is a good thread regarding front fork valves at:

http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=29543.0

These valves combined with good progressive springs are going to make a huge difference to your ride.

As for the rear, there still are shock manufactures that make good shocks for our bikes, and I've heard good things about YYS shocks. Performance vs value looks pretty decent.

http://www.yss-suspension.com

Have Fun
FJ
« Last Edit: February 05, 2008, 09:27:27 AM by FunJimmy »
You never see a motorcycle parked outside of a psychiatrist's office!

CB550 Cafe Interceptor a Gentlemans Roadster
http://forums.sohc4.net/index.php?topic=27159.0

Offline ken74-550K0

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Re: suspension & brakes oh my
« Reply #4 on: February 05, 2008, 09:25:19 AM »
For rear shocks you might want to look into Hagons from Dave Quinn Motorcycles in the US http://www.davequinnmotorcycles.com/cgi-bin/webc/home.html depending on your configuration you are looking at about $200.  I put a pair on my bike and they made a big difference.

Additionally, you might want to consider a rebuilt swing arm bushing collar setup from Honda Man.  He machined new bushings to the dimensions of the collar thus assuring a like new setup.

With new tires, swingarm bushings, and shocks your bike will handle really well (at least for a 30+ year old bike).
1974 CB 550 K0 (completed)
1977 CB 750 F2
1978 CB 750 F3

Offline wigglethattoe

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Re: suspension & brakes oh my
« Reply #5 on: February 05, 2008, 09:46:39 PM »
I just want ot thank everyone for their input. It has really helped me with this project that is probably way beyond my ability. but I am learning by leaps and bounds. Thanks again