Suggestions for rear shock replacements?

[tqs335]

Hello all.
I would love some suggestions on what to use for rear shock replacements on my 81 1100. It has the original OEM shocks on it now. I know there are some very cool high end, high buck units out there. Im looking for moderate prices but a noticeable improvement from the stockers.
All suggestions appreciated.
Thanks,
Terry

[soccer4m]

a few choices

For added comfort, handling and load capacity, there are lots of Harley Air Shocks, and Honda 1100 Air shocks that will work. Lot of HD owners yank them off and put in custom ones, so check Craigslist or Ebay, most of them nearly new. I picked up two sets for 25.00 each...........if you can find them, the xj1100 air shocks are also a great improvement, but getting rare...........Mike in Sun Diego

[jetmechmarty]

Good shocks cost around $500 for a pair. Progressive Suspension shocks work OK for around $300. You don't get any help from them with proper springs. Hagon USA, YSS, Bitubo, all good. Prices jump way up from there.

[BA80]

I've been really happy with XJ1100 shocks. Plug and play and make a world of difference in ride and handling.

All you gotta do is route the airline at the top rear of the OEM toolbox.

Best part is if they start leaking they're pretty easy to reseal.

you can pick up a set off ebay for about $50 - $60.

[bikerphil]

Pretty sure Honda Shadow shocks will bolt right on, you may need to come up with some sort of bolt spacer for the lower right bushing, not a big deal.

Here is a thread about it...

http://www.xs11.com/forum/showthread...a+shocks+great

[madmax-im]

I've been really happy with XJ1100 shocks. Plug and play and make a world of difference in ride and handling.

All you gotta do is route the airline at the top rear of the OEM toolbox.

Best part is if they start leaking they're pretty easy to reseal.

you can pick up a set off ebay for about $50 - $60.

I did this except the pair I found on ebay were $100...still bought the replacement seals and redid them...mounted on my '79F and I too am happy with the results...

[madmax-im]

I think they look bitchin'....

[BA80]

Yes, they do look good but if you have bags they are usually out of sight.....

[Radioguylogs]

Affordable

I found an affordable option for my Bagger project ($100/pr):

http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/motorc...hock-absorbers

They look really nice- much like the original.

They fit same the original.

I haven't had a chance to ride them yet.

Took 3 weeks to get them from the UK. They order them from another source (Taiwan?) when you place your order.

[mikubuilder]

which option fits our bikes?

[kevxs]

whats the benefit?

I find my bike pretty bouncy after going over some bumps on the road. Would replacing the rear shocks with maybe the honda shadow shocks help control this? would adjusting the setting on my current shocks help? i've never adjusted them. I am about 240lbs

[madmax-im]

I find my bike pretty bouncy after going over some bumps on the road. Would replacing the rear shocks with maybe the honda shadow shocks help control this? would adjusting the setting on my current shocks help? i've never adjusted them. I am about 240lbs

absolutely...

[jetmechmarty]

I found an affordable option for my Bagger project ($100/pr):

http://www.demon-tweeks.co.uk/motorc...hock-absorbers

Nothing about spring rates? Nope. Not me.

[Radioguylogs]

Miku

which option fits our bikes?

Type 7 325mm

[Bonz]

That thread about the Showa shocks from a Honda Shadow is the way to go, IMO. You can read my ride reports in it.

I have had them on for 5+ years and they have great ride quality, are damped/sprung very well for the XS1100 weight and keep the back end planted nicely on the bumps and in corners.