Which rear shocks????

[Garnet]

What weight fork oil? I'm using 7.5 wt. with good results.

I was experimenting to stffin up the front and have a hybrid mix in there right now, probably about 15 wt. And they are WAY to stiff, so I need to go down to a normal wt. before I condem my shocks.

[vanzen]

The Major wrote:
"Ohlins are an amazingly superior product, but I don't know if the general design of an Airhead warrants the expense."

Shock technology has changed both in terms of the versatility of the product – and, of course, the price.
In the olden days, one made a choice: "Comfort" or "Performance".
If a "performance shock" was desired, it would be a relatively stiff affair
(compression & rebound rates) to reduce wallowing at speed.
High speed stability would be the Holy Grail in this case.
Compliance ( and therefor comfort ) on irregular pavement suffered,
and this was accepted as a necessary compromise.
Koni ( and Ikon ) exemplify this old world compromise technology as a "performance" shock.
They were good in the day – but that was yesterday.

The Major states that Ohlins is a superior product. I'll second that thought.
Current technology has widened the "performance envelope"
to include rough road compliance and high speed stability.
You can have your cake and eat it too –
but you will need to dust the moths off that wallet for the experience.
The felt difference of the new technology is not relegated to the track or new machines,
even as the complete adjustability ( of Ohlins, etal. ) is a blessing best appreciated on the track.

Although Ohlins is presently at the top of the heap,
other manufacturers offer product with similar performance virtues, various adjustability features,
and a cheaper price-tag.

Proper spring rate will be the most overlooked feature of an MC shock –
Manufacturers ( BMW included ) assume an average rider weight and typical usage,
then fit their production machines with one shock to fit all.
Today, that one shock will be suited to more riders than back in the day –
But "Cheap" aftermarket shock manufacturers will still produce and sell the antiquated technology of yesterday.

[Airbear]

I'm using Ikons. I weigh about 65kg (140 lbs) and find that they are a tad too stiff on the lightest spring setting with the bike unladen, but feel just fine when loaded up for camping. With camping gear and a passenger, spring setting 2 is good. The Ikons are a great improvement over the Boges. I don't think I've ever had them bottom out.

I switched from 10wt to 5wt oil in the front forks and they feel much more comfortable. I am too old to be a 'boy racer' any more.

[Chuey]

"They didn't exactly buy Koni. They bought the rights and drawings to the Koni product, and (I believe) all their remaining parts."

And, I believe, they are an exact copy of the Konis.

So Chuey, does the superoir ride control of the Konis make up for the missing inch and a half of travel?

I'd have to say that I didn't notice it. Makes me wonder about what I'm feeling.

Chuey

[Garnet]

I'd have to say that I didn't notice it. Makes me wonder about what I'm feeling.

Chuey

Well that along with what Charlie has to say tells me that thier control does make up for the lack of travel.

For now I'll soften the forks and then play with more preload settings on the rear to see if I can better diagnose my problem (dislike). Lots of test rides required........yippeeee.

The Ohlins will just have to wait, although if my wife can have a new kitchen..... it only seems fair......right.

[so cal charlie]

If the bike is making a long stay in your garage and not being sold soon ,then i can can see a real upgrade is justifide

[Ross]

This is what I bought this year to replace my shot Koni. I can't believe the difference this has made to the bike. 2 up we no longer have our spines pile drived.

[Airbear]

... although if my wife can have a new kitchen..... it only seems fair......right.

You've nailed it there, Garnet. Clear justification to buy almost anything you desire. Enjoy. **


** Usual disclaimers apply.

[Major Softie]

... although if my wife can have a new kitchen..... it only seems fair......right.

You've nailed it there, Garnet. Clear justification to buy almost anything you desire. Enjoy. **

A whole new motorcycle seems appropriate.

UNLESS, you cook yourself, and thus are also gaining from the new kitchen.

[Chuey]

I left off the most important part about rear shocks. I always have the springs powdercoated in my favorite accent color, red. They feel best when they have your favorite custom color.

Chuey