Author Topic: Ohlins shocks for CB750 or Fox Podium RC1  (Read 7065 times)

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Offline Johnny340

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Ohlins shocks for CB750 or Fox Podium RC1
« on: May 30, 2018, 06:56:45 AM »
I have searched about shock upgrades but don’t see much about Ohlins. Does anyone use them?
Is there a recommendation for a good shock that is longer than stock (14”-14.5”) and even adjustable in length?
Are the Progressive brand still considered one of the best today? (Most threads are fairly old)


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« Last Edit: May 20, 2023, 12:09:04 PM by Johnny340 »
1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline MRieck

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #1 on: May 30, 2018, 07:06:39 AM »
YSS makes a nice shock that you can get with compression, rebound, ride height and preload adjustments. Wilbers make very nice shocks too.
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Offline innovativems

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #2 on: May 30, 2018, 07:12:27 AM »
I’m really happy with my race tech g3’s


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2000 Yamaha YSR50
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Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #3 on: May 30, 2018, 08:31:35 AM »
Was talking to Racetech. Those Wilbers look nice too. I'm thinking I'd like adjustable length since I don't really know how long I need over stock.  +150Euros for that!  What about the need for other adjustments for street use?  I'm thinking a custom built shock should only really need adjustable rebound??...but damn those piggybacks look cool!
Other comments are welcome.  I'd like to order something today.
1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #4 on: May 30, 2018, 11:34:33 AM »
I value your opinions thx.
I went for Fox Podium RC1 with adjustable preload. compression and rebound.   :)
1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #5 on: May 30, 2018, 07:00:53 PM »
I'll know soon.  I think I may have to remove my offset sprockets.  Was he running regular sprockets with a 160 tire and those shocks?
1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #6 on: June 13, 2018, 09:47:14 PM »
Offset sprockets and others have used them with standard sprockets. The issue appears to be insufficient offset in the clevis versus the body diameter.
You were right Cal. Again.
The 10mm spacer on the rear sprocket made the chain hit the shock body. Without that spacer and a non offset counter sprocket, the chain hits the tire (160). I am reducing the rear spacer to 5mm and leaving the offset counter sprocket on. Interestingly the 'offset' counter sprocket has a larger contact with the main shaft but still fastens the same way... By pulling outward towards the lockring groove. So the offset sprocket also has a 2-3mm overhang from this groove which is the only actual difference from stock. (the extra material on the engine side does not actually change the sprocket position.) This would explain the wear on the inside of my '3mm' offset counter sprocket when running the 10mm rear spacer. Anyway, I think this new combo should solve my chain alignment 'problem' as well as have the chain clear the shock and the tire. I'll let you know. Pretty awesome looking shocks so I hope this makes them fit!

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1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #7 on: June 19, 2018, 11:38:35 AM »
Ok so I have them fitting now by machining down the Cognito moto sprocket spacer 5mm and using their non offset 520 counter sprocket. The stance is way better and I have more ground clearance too. I haven't had much time on it yet but so far they feel much improved but maybe a little stiff.
Thanks for your help Cal and everyone here!

Here's a pic.
(btw I didn't think the megaphone exhaust was any better so I'm back to Carpy's open header.)


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1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #8 on: June 19, 2018, 12:01:01 PM »
I haven't had much time on it yet but so far they feel much improved but maybe a little stiff.
Stiff in not traveling enough, or rebounding too quickly? You should have low and high speed compression adjustments on them. Its always worth spending a bit of time dialing in shocks to your weight and riding style/terrain.
Stiff as in not traveling enough. I backed off the preload and have the compression adjusters full soft. I'm thinking the springs may be too stiff for this bike and me at 1855 lbs since there is almost no sag when I sit on it. I did find that I needed collars on the outside of the upper shock mounts or it would bind against the frame when tightened. It's free to move now though.

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1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #9 on: June 19, 2018, 12:01:39 PM »
*185 pounds.. *

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1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Ellz10

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #10 on: May 17, 2022, 12:07:10 PM »
Ok so I have them fitting now by machining down the Cognito moto sprocket spacer 5mm and using their non offset 520 counter sprocket. The stance is way better and I have more ground clearance too. I haven't had much time on it yet but so far they feel much improved but maybe a little stiff.
Thanks for your help Cal and everyone here!

Here's a pic.
(btw I didn't think the megaphone exhaust was any better so I'm back to Carpy's open header.)


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Where did you source that swingarm?
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Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #11 on: May 17, 2022, 01:44:33 PM »
Yes, it is stock with some bracing I welded on to look cool and undo all the weight savings mods.  ;D Then I powder coated it silver to stand out.  New bushings installed as well.
1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #12 on: May 17, 2022, 01:47:59 PM »
Btw, I had the shocks revalved and they are much better but still too stiff overall.  I haven't been able to source lighter springs which is really what I need.
1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Johnny340

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #13 on: May 18, 2022, 11:42:04 AM »
I looked at Racetech but could find anything that would fit.
1975 CB750F0 Super Sport
1972 CB750K2
1981 CB650
1974 T-500
2003 GSXR750
2006 YZ250

Offline Shtonecb500

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« Last Edit: May 29, 2022, 07:09:47 PM by Shtonecb500 »
73/74'' CB500/550 resto-mod - sold
75' 750f 91' cbr f2 swap cafe - mock up
74' 750 chopper hardtail - complete - sold
74' CB750/836kit - Black mix & match - daily rider - always tweaking
71' cb500 K0 survivor - complete
71' K1 - CANDY GOLD/BROWN Winton kit - in process

Offline Ellz10

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Offline Ellz10

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #16 on: May 19, 2022, 01:52:59 PM »
Has anyone ever used TEC shocks?

https://www.tecbikepartsusa.com/HONDA_CB750F_CB750K_TEC_Alloy_Remote_Reservoir_S_p/j-sh-21-h2a.htm
You get what you pay for. $149 for possibly the most important feature for handling, braking and safety should not be a bargain hunted.

That's where my mind was at initially but I know sometimes you can get a good deal for quality product, so that's why I was seeing if anyone had any experience with them. I personally ended up just getting YSS RG Topline Customs this afternoon. I had to go back and forth with one of their reps to be able to make sure he understood that I needed a clevis bottom. I spent WAY, and I mean WAYYY, more money than I ever intended or would've liked to, but as you said "possibly the most important feature..." so at the end of the day I can rest assured I have one of the better shocks for this bike.
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Offline RAFster122s

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #17 on: May 19, 2022, 06:11:09 PM »
So, you guys don’t mention Ikons… any reason for that?
OTHER THAN, it being an Ohlins thread?
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Online scottly

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #18 on: May 19, 2022, 07:30:54 PM »
Wow, I had completely forgotten about the Hagons I picked up last February! :o :o
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Offline andy750

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #19 on: May 19, 2022, 08:00:02 PM »
For what its worth I have 2 CB750s, a CB750K2 and a CB750K4. I have tried 3 aftermarket shocks:
1. Progressive rear shocks on the K4 - good predictable shocks. Limited adjustment
2. Hagon shocks with springs for a 200lb rider - good on the K4 and K2 - predictable dampening
3. Hyperpro shock (good support from Netherlands) currently on the K4 with spring for a 190lb rider - lots more adjustment (preload/dampening) than the Hagon but Hagon easier to fit and ride. Depends on how hard you ride. Rear tire size 130, 120 or 110.

Good thread.
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

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Online scottly

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #20 on: May 19, 2022, 08:32:43 PM »
Andy, do you recall the advertised spring rate for the Hagons? IIRC, the ones I got are 18kg, but it's hard to compare to the S&W/Progressive spring ratings, which have both an upper value and a lower value due to the progressive spring rate as well as a standard of pounds per inch instead of kg per centimeter(?).
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Offline Shtonecb500

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #21 on: May 19, 2022, 09:36:46 PM »
I ran progressive brand shocks on my cb500 for the last 5 years, they lasted maybe 3.5 years before I felt a difference in ride quality, i think they are rebuildable...or I can just get new bodies and use the same springs.... i usually weigh 220lb-200lb and ride about 6-8k a season. I bought them in pieces on amazon and put them together for the cheapest route. I would get them again but they are not my favorite looking shock, too plain looking. I remember enjoying them the most going between detroit and chicago, felt great at highway speeds.
73/74'' CB500/550 resto-mod - sold
75' 750f 91' cbr f2 swap cafe - mock up
74' 750 chopper hardtail - complete - sold
74' CB750/836kit - Black mix & match - daily rider - always tweaking
71' cb500 K0 survivor - complete
71' K1 - CANDY GOLD/BROWN Winton kit - in process

Offline Godffery

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #22 on: May 24, 2022, 07:51:40 AM »
Has anyone ever used TEC shocks?

https://www.tecbikepartsusa.com/HONDA_CB750F_CB750K_TEC_Alloy_Remote_Reservoir_S_p/j-sh-21-h2a.htm
You get what you pay for. $149 for possibly the most important feature for handling, braking and safety should not be a bargain hunted.

That's where my mind was at initially but I know sometimes you can get a good deal for quality product, so that's why I was seeing if anyone had any experience with them. I personally ended up just getting YSS RG Topline Customs this afternoon. I had to go back and forth with one of their reps to be able to make sure he understood that I needed a clevis bottom. I spent WAY, and I mean WAYYY, more money than I ever intended or would've liked to, but as you said "possibly the most important feature..." so at the end of the day I can rest assured I have one of the better shocks for this bike.
I've seen photos of a TEC shock that the reservoir cartridge broke off, (that alone is concerning) and revealing that there was NO passage between the cartridge and the shock, It's purely there to LOOK like a performance shock, but has NO function to it at All!   
    ;)
« Last Edit: May 24, 2022, 07:56:53 AM by Godffery »

Offline MauiK3

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #23 on: May 24, 2022, 07:58:30 AM »
I have Hagon on my K3 and Z1. They pretty much put together whatever you want. Good company
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Offline Shtonecb500

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Re: Ohlins shocks for CB750
« Reply #24 on: May 24, 2022, 07:15:40 PM »
I have Hagon on my K3 and Z1. They pretty much put together whatever you want. Good company

HAGONs are nice vintage looking performing but for the cost...man...they are like north of 500 over 600?
73/74'' CB500/550 resto-mod - sold
75' 750f 91' cbr f2 swap cafe - mock up
74' 750 chopper hardtail - complete - sold
74' CB750/836kit - Black mix & match - daily rider - always tweaking
71' cb500 K0 survivor - complete
71' K1 - CANDY GOLD/BROWN Winton kit - in process