Viable mid-range shock option?

[Gbrown]

Hey guys, my 78 GS750 came with lower rear shocks on it and I wanted to replace them for stock unit. Boy was I in for sticker shock! It seems there is no mid-range option between $100 emgos and $350 Progressives (or way more than that for Hagons, Works, Fox, etc.). I read elsewhere on this forum that Honda CB900F shocks were a consideration so I searched eBay and found these:

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Honda-C...cer-/151681792862?hash=item2350f07b5e&vxp=mtr

It seems they're sold by Tec Bike Parts USA, though I'm sure they're made overseas. Has anyone used these shocks? If so, please chime in. If you haven;t used these shocks, could you give me your (objective) opinion on using them on my GS?

Lastly, I've read several times (both here and elsewhere) to look for used rebuildable shocks on eBay. While I have found some options, what I haven't found is any sort of rebuild kit for shocks. I'm a total greenhorn when it comes to suspension so please forgive my ignorance. Your guys' input is always appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Steve]

It seems there is no mid-range option between $100 emgos and $350 Progressives (or way more than that for Hagons, Works, Fox, etc.).

Where did you get THAT idea? :-k

Hagons are $214 and a darn good shock. Click HERE.

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[Gbrown]

Where did you get THAT idea? :-k

Hagons are $214 and a darn good shock. Click HERE.

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You don't need to convince me that Hagons are good, I just hadn't seen them at this price point. Thanks for the info. I've bookmarked that site for the day I have money to spend. Thanks again.

 

[Steve]

When you do have the funds available, be aware that to order Hagons from Dave Quinn, you CALL HIM. He hesitates to take online orders, mainly because the shocks can be matched to your needs by customizing the damping rate for heavier or lighter riders, selection of springs and length of the overall shock body. You will get what works for YOU.

I ordered shocks for my wife's 850L. I wanted them an inch shorter than stock (she is "vertially-challenged") and that was no problem. Selected the damping rate and springs to match, she is now very pleased with the improved ride. :encouragement:

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[steve murdoch]

How long are the stock GS750 shocks? 13"?
I have a set of 14" Progressive shocks in the for sale section.

 

[Gbrown]

How long are the stock GS750 shocks? 13"?
I have a set of 14" Progressive shocks in the for sale section.

Thanks for the heads-up, that seems like a fair deal. Anyone know what the ramifications would be of putting 14" shocks in place of the stock-length 13" shocks. Is that even an option? Thanks for your help.

 

[Steve]

The seat will be a little farther from the ground. If you have long (enough) legs, that won't be a problem.

The angle of the forks will change just a bit, making it steer just a little bit quicker. Might be enough to notice, maybe not.

The bike will lean over farther on the side stand.

It will be easier to lift onto the center stand. In fact, there is a chance that the rear wheel might still be (lightly) on the ground while on the stand.

.

 

[Gbrown]

The seat will be a little farther from the ground. If you have long (enough) legs, that won't be a problem.

The angle of the forks will change just a bit, making it steer just a little bit quicker. Might be enough to notice, maybe not.

The bike will lean over farther on the side stand.

It will be easier to lift onto the center stand. In fact, there is a chance that the rear wheel might still be (lightly) on the ground while on the stand.

.

As always, helpful and objective. Thank you, Steve. I've got some options to consider at this point (and a paycheck to wait on...).

 

[Brendan W]

I can vouch for the Hagons. Paid over ?200 for them here but what a difference. Mind you they replaced a clapped out set of cheap emgo clone....... I won't call them shocks.... oil pumps with disintegrated bushes.

 

[tkent02]

You can't convince me Hagons are any good. After putting them on four motorcycles, they suck. Big time.

 

[Brendan W]

You can't convince me Hagons are any good. After putting them on four motorcycles, they suck. Big time.

What was your experience with them ?

 

[jsandidge]

You can't convince me Hagons are any good. After putting them on four motorcycles, they suck. Big time.

Were these bikes all done for re-sale? Hard to believe that if you feel they suck, you would have chosen them 4 times.