Replacement rear shocks for '82 GS850GL?

[MBanks]

After a recent wreck, I am trying to find replacement shocks for an '82 GS850GL. I know that shocks from a 1100 GL will work, because the part numbers are the same (511554-001). However, the 850G has a different part number (730270-001). Will these G shocks work for the GL bikes? Also, what other model shocks will work or are there any aftermarket shocks that are known to work for this model. Any advice is much appreciated.

-MBanks

[mike_of_bbg]

Even if you could get them new (which you can't), you'd want to avoid stock shocks. Any you find floating around at this point are bad. No need to look; they're just bad.

Progressive shocks are a popular option at the lower end of the price range. If $200-250 is too steep MDIs are about the only option. They're an improvement over stock but are quite stiff. Lots of other options out there. Pick a length, connection style (should be eye-eye on an 82). Here's from the mega-welcome:

**********Quoted from Mr. Griffin**********
For suspension upgrades, the front end is pretty simple: Progressive brand springs and fresh 15W fork oil. (http://www.mawonline.com has pretty good prices on Progressive products.)

(If you need extra heavy spring rate for your forks (for bigger riders or heavy loads) try Sonic Fork Springs. There's an online tool for calculating the proper spring rate according to your bike, weight, riding style, etc.)
The rear end isn't so simple.
Most of these brands are available in 'eye to eye' and 'eye to clevis' configurations, in different lengths for twin shock GS models. The options are arranged in order of price, low to high.

1. $65-$90 Emgo/MDI: Found all over ebay, and at about every vendor on the internet. General consensus of users seems to be that they are ok quality, but very stiffly sprung. Essentially the bare minimum option from stock. (For example, see: http://www.crc2onlinecatalog.com/rear_shocks.htm)
2. $120 Redwing: Evidently no longer made, they are still available at www.loudfastugly.com (and omarsdtr.com). I've not been able to find anyone who's actually used them, but they appear to be of halfway decent quality.

3. $210-$230 Progressive 12 Series: Lots of information here and all over the web about them. Most people seem happy with them, several different spring weights available. Available at most online retailers. www.denniskirk.com is a vendor I have had great luck with over the years.

4. $218-$270 Hagon Type A: Seem very similar to Progressive 12 series as far as owner satisfaction, quality of construction, and price. Available in the USA at www.davequinnmotorcycles.com

5. $320-$400+ Ikon 76 Series: Generally pretty highly regarded, lots of options available. From what I've read on the internet, they do seem to be more highly regarded than Progressive. Can be found at http://www.ikonsuspensionusa.com/servlet/StoreFront

6. $419-$589 Works Performance Steel Tracker: Very highly regarded, lots of positive reviews around the internet of Works Performance in general. Customer service (including rebuilding any brand of shock) is very highly rated. More info at http://www.worksperformance.com/html/home.html

There are other options available that can be more expensive, including offerings from Works, Ikon, Ohlins. White Brothers, once a powerhouse in the motorcycle industry, has ceased operations.
**********End Quote**********

[MBanks]

Wowie, thanks a lot! I'll probably end up getting some of the emgo's for right now, maybe an upgrade in the future. Emgo lists shocks that fit an 850, but doesnt list anything for the 850G or GL. Am i correct to assume that these GS850 shocks will work for the G or GL?

[MBanks]

Actually, i'll just take my old ones off and measure, but any information would be appreciated as well!

[BassCliff]

Hi,

Yes, those shocks will fit the 850GL too. Anything in the neighborhood of 13 inches should be good. But be warned, the bushings they include with those shocks are made of foam rubber. Try to press out the original bushings and reuse them. If not, I picked up these at my local auto store:



Napa Auto has a package with just the two smaller rubber bushings. I had no use for the bigger one. (You'll need 4 total.)

The MDI bushings after about 1000 miles:



These are much better, but still not perfect:



You'll have to drill out the inside diameter a little bit. These have been on my bike for a couple of years now. But I'm in the process of replacing them.

As far as I know, you can't buy Suzuki shock bushings. But the footpeg bushings should work if you can drill out the inside diameter a bit, part# 09319-10008. I have 4 of these bushings and will be trying this soon. I'll let you know. As I recall, the shock mount is 12mm in diameter.


Thank you for your indulgence,

BassCliff