GS1100 Looking for firm suspension

[oohsam]

Hey Guys,
In my bike build, I put in some cheap suspension, just to get me through. Now I'm looking to replace it with some very firm rear suspension. I need to limit the travel of the rear wheel, and would like something pretty firm.

I've read quite a bit on suspension, but wanted some advice from forum members about this.

Cheers.

[kparkfan]

I have mdi shocks on my bike and they are pretty firm and cheap. Or you could get Progressive shocks but they will run you a couple hundred or more.

[oohsam]

thanks for the reply. MDI's look ok.

Was looking at these though, I weigh 90kgs, so I wanna make sure there is minimal travel when im sitting on the bike and i hit a bump or two.

Anyone able to comment on these?

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=400253596923&fromMakeTrack=true&ssPageName=VIP:watchlink:top:en#ht_1785wt_1189

[razor02097]

I can vouch for progressive shocks. I had them on my CB650 and they give a great feel. The ride will depend on the choice of spring and the pre load setting. I wish like heck I could put the shocks on my GS...


One thing about progressive shocks... Most I know of only come with the shocks. Springs are sold separate.

[oohsam]

yeah you're right the springs are seperate! haha...
I'll do some more research.

[Nessism]

90 kgs is not what we would call heavy here in the US. Those MIDI shocks have decent reviews other than they are very firm, and the upper shock bushings tend to fall apart (but easily repaired).

[oohsam]

how would repair such bushings, is there an aftermarket replacement? Or would i reuse the bushings from my current suspension?

[oohsam]

would this be them ?

http://www.loudfastugly.com/chrmandacc/MDI/mdi.htm

[NoH2Oh]

+1 on the Progressive shocks. Have a pair that I purchased from Z1 with the springs and they are very good for the money.

[7981GS]

Some 15-20 years ago, I bought the progressive suspension rear shocks with the heavy duty option springs for my 750/1000.
On the second or third spring pre-load setting, they are absolutely PERFECT for two-up riding!
As I love to take jumps with that bike, the second or third setting is also perfect for a safe landing.
One-up, of course.
For casual/spirited riding, I just leave them on the second setting.

Daniel

[razor02097]

Some 15-20 years ago, I bought the progressive suspension rear shocks with the heavy duty option springs for my 750/1000.
On the second or third spring pre-load setting, they are absolutely PERFECT for two-up riding!
As I love to take jumps with that bike, the second or third setting is also perfect for a safe landing.
One-up, of course.
For casual/spirited riding, I just leave them on the second setting.

Daniel

We talking about hill hopping or MX jumps

[7981GS]

Clearing the bridge type of jumps, raised man-hole covers and railroad crossing jumps.
There used to be a PERFECT bridge that had a nice ramp leading up to it and, if you hit 65 at the take off point,
you could clear the entire 15-20 feet and land just in time to stop for the turn and stop sign.
Sadly , they re-paved it a few years ago and eliminated the jump!
Now, all that I can find are railroad crossings around here.

Daniel

[oohsam]

Ok I've decided on the MDI shocks, Found these guys online, the other place i contacted wont have them till march.

Can anyone shed some light on the ones I need. I've emailed them but yet to hear from them..damn time zones!

http://hvccycle.com/suspension.html