Topic: K3 Rear Shocks

[BoCoJohn]

I have a 1973 CB750.  My rear shocks don't have a chrome shroud around the top of the shock covering about half the spring.  Did some of the 1973 CB 750's come stock with shocks that showed the shock spring from top to bottom without a chrome shroud around the top?  I've seen pictures with both types of rear shocks that were supposedly stock pics.

[Duke McDukiedook]

The stock Showas on the K3 did come with the top shroud. Odds are if you see one without then it is an aftermarket shock or someone chucked the shroud.

[BoCoJohn]

Industrial,

Thanks for your reply.  I was pretty sure they had the shroud too.  Guess I need to start looking for a set of stock shocks.  I hear the factory shocks are pretty expensive.  I have not been able to find a nice set of used. 

[MoMo]

If your present shocks perform adequately, I'd keep them until you buy a new pair of quality shocks.  Most used shocks will be 30 to 40 years old and most probably no better, or even worse, than what you have. my .02...Larry

[BoCoJohn]

Photolar,

I'm with you.  I think I might wait and save my money for a new set of stock

[MoMo]

Photolar,

I'm with you.  I think I might wait and save my money for a new set of stock

And you'll find almost as many best shock threads as oil threads   Quality shocks will be pricey but well worth it if you plan to keep the bike...Larry

[youn6372]

K3 oem shocks are getting very rare.  Ive seen prices in excess of $600 for a pair and as high as $750.  Ridiculous.

[MCRider]

Photolar,

I'm with you.  I think I might wait and save my money for a new set of stock

Still a little confused. If you literally mean "stock" you'll be paying way too much for an inferior product. Reserved for true restorations, not a daily rider. OEM were inferior when they were made currently, now that most likely all there is too choose from are some that have been sitting on a shelf for who knows how long... well they are pooh.

Inferior performance means that with spirtied riding, they will overheat, fade out and become springy/bouncy. With heavy loads the springs will sack out sooner.

If by stock you mean an aftermarket that fits like stock, you'll spend a lot less for a much better product. There may be some interference with your chain guard assuming its stock.

[Duke McDukiedook]

Abandon all hopes of using the stock shock, buy something that actually works well. Almost any aftermarket shock will outperform the stock pogos.