Topic: Will most 70's cb shocks fit other years?

[robdrobd]

Will most 70's cb shocks fit a 1975 cb550f as long as the bottom is a clevis mount? I am looking to get some replacement shocks off a 78 750 and I am wondering if I am wasting my time.

[robdrobd]

Any answers before I buy a set tonight? 

[number13]

The shocks on the 750 are longer than the shocks on
a 500 or 550. Though they will fit, it will change the
stance of your bike.

[Gordon]

If the shocks from the 750 are the stock ones then they'll have long since been worn out and will probably be a waste of money.  

Pretty much any eye/clevis type shock will fit your bike, but there are differences in spring rates and shock length that you need to consider.  I don't know the exact differences off the top of my head, but shocks meant for a 750 will be longer and have a higher spring rate than those for a 550.  For some people this works out well, for others it doesn't.  


edit:  out-typed by number13.

[robdrobd]

Thanks guys, would low mileage indicate the shocks might still be ok, even on an older bike?

[Gordon]

Thanks guys, would low mileage indicate the shocks might still be ok, even on an older bike?

Not really.  I think shocks were one of the areas where Honda saved money to be able to make their bikes more affordable.  Even if they somehow still seem to have some decent damping, it probably won't last long, and the stock shocks aren't rebuildable. 

Even a relatively inexpensive pair of aftermarket shocks are going to be better than 30 year old stock ones. 

Don't forget the length and spring rate issue, either.  If the shocks are too much longer than what was meant for your bike, the rear tire won't lift off the ground when the bike is on the center stand, and if the springs are much stiffer than you need it will make for a bumpy ride and can negatively impact the handling. 

[TwoTired]

Just to add.  Popular opinion has it that the stock shocks were worn out in as little as 15000 miles.