rear shock question

[kls1]

So I was looking to improve (however slightly) my handling by replacing my OEM rear shocks with some used shocks that could be found through the various forums, auction sites, other such. I have been getting a lot of feedback on Koni 7610-1298, and not the r65 model specific 7610-1427. I read on Noemi's FAQ that there is a few cm of difference. Would this lead to drastic or noticeable unstabilities? Differences? Similarly, if I could determine the eye-to-eye distance of the stock shock (unweighted), would it be reasonable to use a similar measured shock from one of those aftermarket makers?

sorry if this sounds like a stupid question -- but from what i think, it seems like i'd just be changing apples for apples, and not bananas vs apples.

[Jon_P]

careful installing longer shocks, it will raise the rear and change the rake in the front which will change the trail which will change how it handles, it could take the trail to dangerous levels making it want to flop over at high speeds, also keep in mind that with the drive shafts it will lift the rear under load and will decrease the trail even more.

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

Konis are very nice, although not made any more under that name.  It is now Ikon.  AFAIK, same quality, same rebuildability, same high-end price.

I replaced my originals with Hagon.  The U.S. distributor is Dave Quinn.  He is ready and willing to help you with any questions and will assemble a shock or shocks to your specifications.  This generally means your weight and % of pillion use.  They are reasonably priced, and I have enjoyed mine for the last two years.
http://www.davequinnmotorcycles.com/

There are others, of course.

[kls1]

Thanks for the advice guys. I found the Hangon on capitalcycle going for around $200. A difference of $150 over the ikon's seems to be saying something... Just don't know what. How are you liking the Hagon, Rob? Lasting well?

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

I like them fine.  Anything had to be an improvement over the originals.  I have heard some say they should have been replaced out of the crate...


I won't say it is like riding in a Cadillac, but I believe they have contributed to my being able to ride through a complete tank without stopping.  

The new seat contributed more, though!

If I was going to give up on street riding and hit the track, I would get the high-end, but I saw some photos from Mid-Ohio (I think), and there were Hagon shocks all over the place!

I don't recommend getting Hagons from anyone except Dave Quinn (in the U.S.).  He will set them up FOR YOU.  Capital may, also, I don't know.


This is from a series of photos from Belgium, from a thread on ADVrider.
Not the source I was looking for (this is the only bike with Hagons on this thread).
I know I saw another...


click for the thread

[nhmaf]

you can also get 'progressive' (brand name) shocks for the R65, they are a little bit less in price than the Hagons.
They work pretty well for me, but might not be quite the same level of adjustability as the Hagons.   for my 6'2" 210 pounds,
the progressives work pretty well for sporty type riding.

[Rob Valdez 79 R65]

My Hagons only have 3 positions of spring preload - and no nifty built-in handle like the originals.

The "adjustablility" I speak of, is spring rate, and possibly internal dampning that can be changed when you order.

[Allred]

So...how about the shocks now being promoted by Bob's BMW, for "look-a-like" replacement rear shocks for among other airheads, R65's.? Apparantly they have the levers, like the originals, and are available with or without chrome covers for the top 1/3 of the spring.  I also seem to recall the spring was available in a choice of strengths, light, medium, and heavy duty.

Has anyone tried 'em, or know who builds them.  I like the stock look, but wouldn't want to settle for poor performance just for looks.  Of course, anything would be better than the shocks I have on my new-to-me '83 R65, which I think are original '83 units.

If I recall, price was $259 per pair without chrome covers, $298 with.  Check 'em out on Bob's BMW website.

[MrRiden]

I'm not familiar with the Progressive shocks but have heard good reviews. I had Dave Quinn send me some Hagon's due to their price point and I'm pretty happy with them both on the super slab and around town, tho I'm not an aggressive rider.
rich