86 mono suspension

[erod1]

I changed the fork oil on my 86 r65. But the bike still rides like I have poor shocks. The bike was siting for over ten years. It only has 15,800 miles. I am assuming not 115,800. I love the bike but with the bouncing and rough riding suspension and break problems I am thinking to sell it. Do you think changing my rear shock would make a big improvement .

[montmil]

Ed Rod,

You didn't mention the specs of the fork oil you used.

Also, are you aware that there are two different volumes of oil specified? Relates to you having rebuilt the forks or just a basic fluid change.

Also, there are hard "rubber-ish" cushion rings in the forks that will deteriorate over time. They usually end up as sludge in the fork lowers. Excessive topping out -or clunky sounding forks- is the result.

Is the rear mono original equipment? Any obvious signs of leakage? How's the rebound action?

Even remaining dormant for ten years, that still leaves seventeen years remaining to rack up some miles -so the mileage could be questionable.

What inspection and service work have you accomplished with the brakes and hydraulic system?

Please provide us with a few more clues n' details as to what you've already checked and/or replaced

[erod1]

I just changed the oil to the factory specs and used BMW oil. The front is not bouncy or clunky. I believe the problem is coming from the rear. I adjusted the rebound rate. The ride is just not smooth. I do not see any leakage from the shock.

[montmil]

... I adjusted the rebound rate...

I'm not sure if the '86 monoshock had a rebound adjustment feature. Research on specs denotes only a pre-load feature. Might you be experimenting with the rotating adjuster at the bottom of the shock spring? Adding pre-load and riding solo will "harshen" the ride.

Also, what tire air pressures are you currently running?