1983 GS850GL Rear Shocks replacement -- How much $$ is too much ?

[Wingsconsin]

I have been noodling around on Google for a potential update of the rear shocks on the Little bike (GS850GL)
ON the internet one can see some replacement shocks for around $80 and others are $450
IF I decide to do this I wouldn't mind spending a little cash on it - but how much is too much ?

If I can get a decent ride quality and a reasonably good shock pair for $125 why would I spend $400+ ?

What is your suggestion ?
I know I am a big boy tipping the scales at 290 right now (dieting ) - so a good shock would need to be capable of such loads
But I never ride this bike 2-up so any shock should be close to being able to handle me 1-up ? Right ?

What is the consensus of the hive mind here on GSR ?

Please post your ideas (and brands and where to buy, price etc if you know it)

Thanks

 

[Guest]

I was really happy with the Hagons. I think I paid around $200 for them. They are a tad stiff but I am a bit lighter than you. I didn't realize how bad mine were till I got new ones.

 

[jsandidge]

Another vote for Hagons. Mine are on an 82 850L. I'm only 10-15 lbs lighter than you, but I do occasionally ride 2-up with my 100 lb wife. It's hard to say whether the ride is better 2-up or solo, it's really good either way.

 

[NavyDad]

Another vote for Hagons. :encouragement:

 

[Steve]

I agree with Hagon. Call Dave Quinn Motorsports at 203-393-2651. Click HERE to visit the website.

Talking with Dave, he will get your specific information regarding general size, gravitational attraction, bike, riding style, etc. He will then select the shock body with the proper damping (they are not adjustable) and the proper spring rate, assemble them and ship them to you (after you make arrangements for the transfer of $214, plus shipping). When you get them, it's pretty much "plug and play".

We ordered shorter shock's for my wife's bike, along with the proper springs. The ride is a bit firmer, but it's SO much more comfortable, now that there is actually some travel left in the springs and some damping.

.

 

[salty_monk]

Having seen both Hagon & Progressive it seems they are similar (but Hagon's are well known for Dave's great customer service). Ikon shocks are decent if you can find them and adjustable too...

I've ridden on just about all types of shocks on the GS at some point & unless you're going to go to Works Performance or Ohlins or something you won't notice much difference between the lower pricepoint ones in my opinion.

 

[Brendan W]

Another vote for Hagon street shocks about €200.
I'm not sure that combination of this riders abilities and basic design of the bike could extract the benefit from $400 units
The bike had been fitted with 50 quid Emgo or something.
They didn't look very old but the seals leaked and the bushes were falling apart.

 

[Wingsconsin]

Pulled the trigger on Hagon from Dave Quinn -

Once I get them I will report on the ride IMPROVEMENT I am sure.

Plug & Play ...? Right ..?

I LOVE the bike - and will be keeping it - so why not make it better to ride.

 

[Guest]

My Hagon's transformed the ride on my old GS650GL. I replaced the 30+ year old stock shocks and had no more spine jarring rides. Well worth it.

 

[jsandidge]

Pulled the trigger on Hagon from Dave Quinn -

Once I get them I will report on the ride IMPROVEMENT I am sure.

Plug & Play ...? Right ..?

I LOVE the bike - and will be keeping it - so why not make it better to ride.

If you haven't done so already, a set of sonic springs up front will nicely compliment the Hagons.

 

[Steve]

If you go Sonic, get the 1.1 rate and use 10w fork oil. :encouragement:

.

 

[Wingsconsin]

If you haven't done so already, a set of sonic springs up front will nicely compliment the Hagons.

Sonic Springs in Front last year already - I have to re-do the seals as I think I may have done them wrong -
The oil marks on the tubes indicate a slight leak - but nothing running down the outsides?
MAYBE I have the seals in upside down...:shame:

If you go Sonic, get the 1.1 rate and use 10w fork oil. :encouragement:

.

​That's what I got /did ..

 

[sam000lee]

I did the Sonic springs last year and the Hagons from Dave Quinn a couple of weeks ago. Couldn't be happier!

 

[Wingsconsin]

I have only 3 words for the NEW HAGON Shocks for the rear of my 1983 GS850GL thanks to Dave Quinn...

OH MY GOD !:cheerful: