Time to be modern-Updating Suspension (Help)

[Guest]

Looking for help in what to buy for an updated/upgraded suspension both front and rear. I've never replaced these in my previous bikes, but need to do so now.

I know riding style is a part of the choices (occasionally spirited), rider size (270#), and whether there are any passengers (occasionally).

Aside from thinking progressive, don't know much else to look at, go to or order.

I welcome all thoughts, suggestions, and points to part #'s, etc.

[Ecklund]

Looking for help in what to buy for an updated/upgraded suspension both front and rear. I've never replaced these in my previous bikes, but need to do so now.

I know riding style is a part of the choices (occasionally spirited), rider size (270#), and whether there are any passengers (occasionally).

Aside from thinking progressive, don't know much else to look at, go to or order.

I welcome all thoughts, suggestions, and points to part #'s, etc.

Getting the correct spring rates was the biggest improvement for me.

Plenty of good choices for the fork springs - I used Racetech just because I also used their fork emulators. However GSR userSalty Monk pointed out that the XS site has good emulators for a better price.

I used progressive shocks with HD springs, but think I'd go with Hagons next time as they have more specific spring recommendations and may even be a bit better shock.

A fork brace also seems to have stood the test of time and worked well for me.

While not really suspension, I upgraded the brake pads and added SS brake lines.

I also changed my bars to 'Daytona' style bars. But bars are a very individual choice.

To me the change was dramatic. I only got to ride the bike in 'stock' form for a short time, but the upgraded bike was surprisingly good in comparison. And it was ever more remarkable considering the cost of the upgrades.

With the 10wt. fork oil the suspension was easily as good as my recent '97 XX or my '01 ZRX. I was so impressed with the benefits of upgrading suspension the ZRX is next.

[gsgeezer]

Also check out Sonic Springs: http://www.sonicsprings.com/catalog/

I have also used Race-Tech, I like the straight-rate springs.

On the GS1000, I have Y.S.S rear shocks and have been pleased, so far.

http://www.yssusa.com/

[tkent02]

All of these shock companies will sell you much too stiff springs if you let them.

[RichDesmond]

Looking for help in what to buy for an updated/upgraded suspension both front and rear. I've never replaced these in my previous bikes, but need to do so now.

I know riding style is a part of the choices (occasionally spirited), rider size (270#), and whether there are any passengers (occasionally).

Aside from thinking progressive, don't know much else to look at, go to or order.

I welcome all thoughts, suggestions, and points to part #'s, etc.

Straight rate fork springs in a 1.0kg/mm rate paired with 15w fork oil would be a good start for the front. You can add emulators also, they smooth out the compression damping curve.
Don't know what the current hot ticket is on the rear, I've got an old set of SW shocks on my 1000.

[Riding Again]

Thank you all for your insights. I'll mull these over and post what I finally decide to go with.

[gsgeezer]

Stay away from progressive springs and go for straight rate and you will be much happier. They don't have to be overly stiff, either. The bikes I have installed straight rate springs and emulators have been comfortable to sit on all day; just me though, I guess!

[1980GS1000E]

I just ordered some Hagons for me. I'm pretty close to your weight and the person was very helpful on the phone with regards to what I can expect with their shocks.

[BassCliff]

Hi,

From the "mega-welcome" (or the READ ME page on my little website):

**********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 had pretty good prices on Progressive products when I bought mine.)

(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.

(Note from BassCliff: Also check out YSS Suspension at http://www.yssusa.com/products_yss.html.)

**********End Quote**********




Thank you for your indulgence,


BassCliff

[AJ]

I just ordered some Hagons for me. I'm pretty close to your weight and the person was very helpful on the phone with regards to what I can expect with their shocks.

How much were the Hagons (price plus shipping)?

Right now I'm leaning towards the Progressive Suspensions which I really liked on my Harley.

BTW, thanks BassCliff for the excellent summary.

[HighCountryGS]

I just purchased Hagons as well and they were $212.98 shipped to answer your question.

[AJ]

I just purchased Hagons as well and they were $212.98 shipped to answer your question.

Thanks. Can you comment on why you went with Hagon vs. Progressive?

[HighCountryGS]

Thanks. Can you comment on why you went with Hagon vs. Progressive?

I have long thought that I would go with the Progressives because they have a good rep and the price was right. But I just kind of got lost in trying to figure out for myself the spring rate and all that.

The Hagons come with 4 damping choices, and quite a few different spring rates. Also come in any color combination of chrome and black. And have the choice of slimline or regular style springs.

The big deciding factor was when I talked to Dave. He was so knowledgeable about all of it. He just needed to know what bike and my weight and riding style. Then he made a recommendation.

They were only $212 shipped and come with up to 2 free spring swaps if you don't like what they recommend. I paid for them on a Monday and had them installed on my bike by Thursday night. Can't beat that!