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Smaller Shocks
- Schmeck
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07 Sep 2013 16:00 #605388
by Schmeck
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
Smaller Shocks was created by Schmeck
Hello, Ive got a big project ahead of me but Figured I would ask since I cant seem to find too many of these. Im looking for shorter rear shocks that will fit a 79 kz750 twin. I have the rear lowered and measured roughly 8 inches from top to bottom where the shocks go. I like this height but maybe an Inch higher. Are there a set of shocks that will work with this setup. I need almost minimum to no movement so a set of struts would probably work too. The originals I had on the bike were I think 13 1/2 " overall length from top mount to bottom mount. I like the feel of it sitting lower to the ground rather than higher . Any help is welcome, thanks
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
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- Schmeck
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07 Sep 2013 19:29 #605413
by Schmeck
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
Replied by Schmeck on topic Smaller Shocks
Here is a picture of my bike as of now . Ignore the missing engine head. I have a 17mm wrench where the shock goes on the back side. Would like to get decent struts but would gladly weld two 17mm wrenches onto the shock mounts. Would look alittle weird though lol
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
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08 Sep 2013 18:35 #605583
by Schmeck
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
Replied by Schmeck on topic Smaller Shocks
Attachment image_2013-09-08.jpg not found
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
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- racer54
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08 Sep 2013 18:50 #605585
by racer54
1980 LTD (changed over the years), 1979 LTD (being rebuilt), 1977 KZ turbo and various KZ's in various states of build. KLX110
Replied by racer54 on topic Smaller Shocks
I would think an 8" shock will be hard to find unless you want to get a custom set of shocks made up....struts though would be much easier to make to fit.
1980 LTD (changed over the years), 1979 LTD (being rebuilt), 1977 KZ turbo and various KZ's in various states of build. KLX110
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- martin_csr
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08 Sep 2013 23:06 #605617
by martin_csr
Replied by martin_csr on topic Smaller Shocks
Maybe you could get some Harley Sportster hugger shocks, but the shortest I've seen is 10.5".
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09 Sep 2013 00:04 #605626
by Schmeck
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
Replied by Schmeck on topic Smaller Shocks
Struts would work but If I can find a set of shocks that are anywhere from 9"-10.5", that could work. I have seen a lot of Harley shocks but concerned about if they would fit. Clearance between my rear tire and the bar just behind the battery is an issue also. Don't want the tire to catch the frame Do they have shocks that wont compress past 2 inches? Or is that why people use bump stops when lowering there ride?
Also, I noticed my stock shocks have the same 1 inch openings ( mounts) as Harley Davidson Shocks that I have seen. Can I get Harley shocks and just put the rubber ring from the inside of my shock into the Harley shocks? So as to use my mounting bolt sizes?
Also, I noticed my stock shocks have the same 1 inch openings ( mounts) as Harley Davidson Shocks that I have seen. Can I get Harley shocks and just put the rubber ring from the inside of my shock into the Harley shocks? So as to use my mounting bolt sizes?
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
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- H1Vindicator
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09 Sep 2013 09:17 #605663
by H1Vindicator
Replied by H1Vindicator on topic Smaller Shocks
In regards to a stock KZ. HD Sportster shocks swap w KZ shocks but there are a couple of caveats. (1) the Sportys are wider at the bottom - either spread open the bottom mount on the bike or grind down the shock ~2-4mm. (2) the dampers & bushings have to swapped out - use a C-clamp & sockets - easy. (3) the shock may contact the chain guard - no big deal, especially if it's plastic.
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- Schmeck
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10 Sep 2013 01:17 #605803
by Schmeck
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
Replied by Schmeck on topic Smaller Shocks
I have read alot about interchanging motorcycle shocks . I like the look of the bike lowered down with struts but I dont think its worth the back pain for looks. Is there a way I can cut my shocks down an inch or two? Like maybe cut the bottom off and re-weld the mount on ?
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
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10 Sep 2013 08:30 #605825
by koolaid_kid
1983 GPz 750
810 Wiseco, Kerker, K&N, DynoJet S3, Accel, Progressive, etc.
Replied by koolaid_kid on topic Smaller Shocks
No, there is far too much stress on them to do that.
1983 GPz 750
810 Wiseco, Kerker, K&N, DynoJet S3, Accel, Progressive, etc.
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10 Sep 2013 09:50 #605836
by Schmeck
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
Replied by Schmeck on topic Smaller Shocks
True, also i have seen many bikes shocks at a 45 degree angle ( they moved the top mount) . This apparently stiffens up the shock . If I moved my top mount and welded i back on , should i be worried anout the shock blowing up ? Being that it would be at a 45
1979 kz750 twin -Soon to be roadworthy
1988 El250 engine in custom hard tail frame - collecting dust
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