Vtec Shock Options

jeremy556, Mar 27 2006, 07:55 PMJust what I have been looking for, I thought there used to be a post about this but had been unable to find it for a while. My stock shock doesn't feel too good any more with 35K miles and need to upgrade. Very near future unemployment prevents me from getting something like Ohlins or Penske.

I don�t suppose your old Fox is for sale?

baileyrock, Mar 27 2006, 10:49 PM I now have an extra 850 lb spring that might work ? unsure.gif  

baileyrock, Mar 27 2006, 11:18 PMNot sure, but I think so.  This is a standard 6''x 2.225"x 850 lb spring and looks like you would have aprox. 3/8" of pre-load on the spring at full soft setting. The factory spring tapper down about 1/4 " on one end so a bigger seat may be needed?


[image: user posted image]
F4 shock/ Eibach 850 lb spring

SEBSPEED, Mar 27 2006, 10:20 PM idea3.gif Is it for sale?

baileyrock, Mar 27 2006, 11:27 PMSend money ! tongue.gif
My replacement (spring)was $110 shipped ! huh.gif

Vtec owners have from cheap shocks to top of the line Ohlins or Penske .

from left stock Vtec, F4, F3, Fox F2/F3 shocks

[image: Picture686.jpg]

Stock Vtec shock is 12.4688"(317mm) long w/ a 7.5" long spring.

CBR 929 shock is 11.281"(286.5mm)w/a 6.250" long spring(needs 30mm top mount spacer to use on vtec) and can be used on a Vtec with a mod to the rear brake support bracket bolted behind the shock on the back of the Frame. Member dallasb did this mod check post #74 here in this thread.

CBR F4/F4i shock is 12"(305.6MM) w/a 5.5" long spring and would only need a 11mm top mount spacer and stiffer spring depending on your weight.

I installed a FOX Twin Clicker off an CBR F3 on my vtec first, it would just get to the 12 3/8" at max (beyond) length adjustment(ride height). Better than stock shock but no where near as good as the other 3 brands.

CBR 1100XX(Blackbird)shock is a nice & cheap drop in shock for the vtec as it runs a stiffer 16.9kg spring and is 3-5mm longer at 320mm so it would jack up the rear a little to provide extra ground clearance and quicker turn-in. Maybe $50 and a straight bolt in!

Penske, Ohlins & ELKA all make new shock for the Vtec also from about $650-up.

I was running this Fox F2/F3 on my vtec with a stock spring rate(15.3 kg from a 929 shock), but decided to to upgrade to an Ohlins that came off a CBR F3. Here's the Ohlins next to a stock Vtec shock.

CBR F3 Ohlins vs stock Vtec shock

[image: Picture689.jpg]

I ended up running the stock or a 850 lb spring on the Ohlins at first, but after upgrading my front forks by having Phil at Aftershocks build my VFR forks I found I need (also advised by Phil) to increase my rear spring rate too. So I removed the stock again to install a different spring on the Ohlins, a 19.3 kg.

While it's out I took a shot of the top mount with a longer bolt(through frame) and the aluminum spacer I made to make up for the approx 1" shorter CBR Ohlins.

Here's the stock and modded mount w/spacer.

modified top shock mount- Vtec

[image: shockmount002.jpg]

I mounted the remote on a bracket that bolts to the back side of the left rear peg bracket.

Cbr F3 Ohlins installed

[image: Picture340.jpg]

A stock F3 or F4 shock can be used on a Vtec but with several issues. One is that they are sprung much lighter than a VFR and the pre-load adjuster in on the bottom of the shocks making adjustment a hassle, but not impossible. With a spring change and a new top mount spacer made you could have a fully adjustable shock that should work better than our stock Vtec's. If your less than 150 lbs a F4/F4i shock might be a great/cheap improvement for your Vtec with only needing an 11mm spacer to install it.

Now what is a great upgrade for the 5th Gen VFR (CBR 929)will not work as easily on our Vtecs because of clearance issues with the fixed remote.

This is using a CBR 929 (only) shock on your 98-01 VFR's and it even has the same 15.3 kg spring as the VFR. The 954 has the remote adjuster on the opposite side and causes some clearance problems and has a softer spring than the 929 so not the best choice for the 5th gen install.

These are both 929 shocks, the white spring ones came on the Erion versions of the 929 and yellow springs on the standard 929.

[image: Picture104.jpg]

Also check on Turtlecreeks F4i shock install on his Vtec after having Aftershocks rebuild/revalve and respring it!

SEBSPEEDBailey, do you think the internals of an F4i shock shoud be changed in any way when coupled with a stiffer spring? I weigh just under 200, and would like to use my old F4i shock on the viffer.

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

You know I have never been in a rear shock, but I'm looking at trying to fit a firmer spring to one of the F3 or F4 shocks. I now have an extra 850 lb spring that might work ? :beer: As far as valving or re-valving the F4, it all depends on how high of a spring you go with. I would think it could handle the stock VFR rate, maybe a little more within it's adjustments. Much higher might be pushing it's capacity to dampen the spring? Stock F4 is like a 800 lb and our VFR's are 850 lb stock so that's not much difference IMO.

FotoMoto ran a F4 with stock F4 spring cranked w/full preload, said it felt pretty good but needed a stiffer spring.

SEBSPEEDWhich is off the F2/3 shock? That spring won't fit the F4i shock, will it? It's a bit shorter? I also have a 600RR shock laying around, but I don't know what the specs are on it, i.e. spring length/rate.

Not sure, but I think so. This is a standard 6''x 2.225"x 850 lb spring and looks like you would have aprox. 3/8" of pre-load on the spring at full soft setting. The factory spring tapper down about 1/4 " on one end so a bigger seat may be needed?

F4 shock/ Eibach 850 lb spring

[image: shockmount.jpg]

spud786I would not go to a shorter shock , this bikes cornering is grately effected by rear ride height.

No worries, I would never install a shorter shock unless I was lowering the bike and dropped the front the same amount. A spacer is needed at the top mount bracket to make up any length of a shorter shock like I show in my Ohlins install in this post ! :P

Yes was looking for this thread glade it's back :beer:

I have also found that any aftermarket shock that is made or comes off a VFR750 is straight bolt in replacement for VTEC (the standard 750 shock no good due to preload adjustment stem & the VTEC shock is better anyway).

VTEC shock length standard is 317.5mm

VFR750 shock length is 320mm

1mm extra added to shock length on all VFR'S works out to be about 3.3mm more ride hight rear, so 2.5mm difference is about what people shim there shock anyway.

767fixer, Mar 27 2006, 11:31 PManyone have 850 spring for an f4i shock????    if i dont get one soon....anyone want a clean f4i shock?

already sold the 929 shock bailey  smile.gif

zRoYzYes was looking for this thread glade it's back? :beer:

I have also found that any aftermarket shock that is made or comes off a VFR750 is straight bolt in replacement for VTEC (the standard 750 shock no good due to preload adjustment stem & the VTEC shock is better anyway).

VTEC shock length standard is 317.5mm

VFR750 shock length is 320mm

1mm extra added to shock length on all VFR'S works out to be about 3.3mm more ride hight rear, so 2.5mm difference is about what people shim there shock anyway.

Sounds good to me and thanks for sharing ! Many, but not all aftermarket shock have ride height adjust. too, which really makes it easy !

On Vtec shock length, I've never got that claimed 317.5mm(12.5") on the Vtec shock I've measured, there more like 315mm (12 3/8"). :pissed:

:thumbsup:

baileyrock, Mar 28 2006, 02:12 PMMy new Ohlins rear spring just showed up and it's purdy.
Will install it tonight,but still waiting for my bodywork from the painter before I can ride it again! huh.gif
It's a Ohlins 01093-79/190 L445  which is aprox. 19.3 kg and 1086 lbs.

Das Bone, Mar 28 2006, 02:18 PMSo, am I getting this right that the Ohlins doesn't make a shock that is a direct replacement for the VFR, i.e. no spacer needed?

The reason I ask is someone told me that Ohlins does make a direct replacement and now I'm wondering if he is full of sh*t dry.gif
Thanks Bailey fing02.gif

RosscoB, Mar 28 2006, 02:22 PMWho needs body work? (grin)  Go try that thing out.

benSV, Mar 28 2006, 02:40 PMYou don't carry around luggage, passengers, etc?

I find I have to make big adjustments to the rear preload with either.

Das Bone, Mar 28 2006, 03:02 PMThanks for the info Bailey and Ben

I'm a selfish solo twisties guy too goofy.gif Big surprise huh biggrin.gif

baileyrock, Mar 28 2006, 03:29 PMGas tank too ! goofy.gif

My new Ohlins rear spring just showed up and it's purdy.

Will install it tonight,but still waiting for my bodywork from the painter before I can ride it again! :unsure:

It's a Ohlins 01093-79/190 L445 which is aprox. 19.3 kg and 1086 lbs.

Yes I looked it up...

There are two drop in Ohlins shocks that have almost exactly the correct length and spec for the VFR.

One has a remote Preload Adjuster and the other has a threaded pre-load collar.

They are designated 46DRS (remote preload) and 46DR I think.

Length is 317.5mm, about 1/8" longer then stock, perfect to jack up the rear a bit. Stroke is 53.5mm.

I found them online in one place for $750 but the correct price appears to be closer to $850-900.

Looks like they are available for the 5th gen too.

Looks good to me, if I'm going to go to all the trouble to swap em out I want to get the bike nearly perfect the first time.

I might do it next year, depends on the cost to work over the forks too. I really want that remote preload adjuster though, I find it highly annoying that Honda gave the remote preload adjuster to ABS riders but not to the rest of us.

benSVDo you care about remote comp/rebound adjust though?

I mess with the preload constantly, I've never really messed with my rebound once.  I set it like 1/8 turn higher then stock the first time I took the bike to the track and I've never touched it again.

It gets you a little more convenience then stock as you don't have to pull out any tools to adjust the rebound.

Me I'm just the opposite, I set the Sag once and never touch pre-load again. On the other hand I play with comp. on the remote quite often, I can just reach back and add or take out a few clicks. I may pull out a few clicks when I hit the highway or straighter section and click back in a little when I hit the twisties again.

It also offers less chance of over heating fade with the extra reservoir of goodies.

Once I get everything set-up right with my new spring and spend the time getting all the setting right, I may never really have to play with it again unless I do a track day or something. :P

baileyrockI bought my Ohlins (CBR F3) on eBay for $300 and changed the spring ($100) and all I had to do was make a 1" spacer as mentioned here. I bought a Fox for like $225 before that.

Any aftermarket shock for a honda WITHOUT a fixed remote should work with a spacer and spring change !

<{POST_SNAPBACK}>

Valuable information right there, I say! My F4i just gave up its shock tonight, which shall be shelved for a(hopefully very short) period of time until it gets a new spring and becomes a VFR part :salesman: Makes me really hope that I end up liking the 1000rr shock that's slated to go in the CBR... :joystick:

I just went down to the local breaker/ Wrecker and have found a CBR900RR (up to and including the 919 edition) rear unit will fit a VTEC (6th Gen). both are 307mm long. This shock also fits a Blackbird, all 3 bikes share the same rear spring rate- (15kg/mm)

The 5th Gen can use the same shock, but will need a spacer shim on top of the shock shackle of approx 7mm. it also has the same spring rate.

so as an option, the 900RR fireblade shock is an easier fit, give you a remote reservoir and compression damping adjustment. I am unsure of damping, so I am going to fit it straight in and let you all know.

Photo's to follow.

Chris_VFRI just went down to the local breaker/ Wrecker and have found a CBR900RR (up to and including the 919 edition) rear unit will fit a VTEC (6th Gen). both are 307mm long. This shock also fits a Blackbird, all 3 bikes share the same rear spring rate- (15kg/mm)

The 5th Gen can use the same shock, but will need a spacer shim on top of the shock shackle of approx 7mm. it also has the same spring rate.

Hey Chris, a few things or questions.

The XX Blackbird has a spring rate of 16kg if I'm not mistaken and is 317mm long. The Vtec shock is 315-317mm so if you use a 307mm shock you will need to shim it at least 8mm for use on the Vtec and the 5th gen shock is 324mm long so using this 919 shock(307mm?) would require a 17mm shim not 7mm. All VFR800's run a 15.3kg spring.

You are right on the Blackbird shock, it should bolt into the Vtec and would offer a slightly stiffer spring rate of 16kg (898lbs). I ran a XX shock on my 00 with a 1/4" spacer. :pissed:

What to do?

OK, I have to replace my shock now. Rebuild/revalve/respring runs $400 and will leave me with no shock for over a week on my primary transportation.

WP 4014 Fusion with remote res and preload is $850. Ohlins 46HRCS is similar, but not sure if it will fit vtec. Ohlins 46DRS is $650 and it fits VTEC.

Which one should I get? Right now, I am slow, and ride in Florida. I should be moving to North GA in the next couple of months so will have good roads and should get better. I plan on doing some track days, but not racing. I know little about suspension other than that my shock sucks.

I thought this might be the best place to post this.

A question or two for you knowledgeable people.

I am thinking of trying an F4i rear shock on my vtec. My weight and height are 145lb. and 5'6 1/2" so as you see I am smallish.

I have read here the F4i shock (at 12") is 3/8" or 10mm shorter than the Vtec at (12 3/8")and needs to be shimmed, no problem as I would prefer the bike lowered a bit.

The race tech site calculator tells me my rear spring for street use should be 13.63kg/mm on the F4i (14.33kg/mm for a vtec). This so happens to be near the F4i spring weight which is 14.2kg/mm.

1. Do you think it will be ok or would the extra weight of the vtec be a problem or are there some other possible problems I am unaware of?

Don't do much two up riding.

2. Can you twist the shock 180 degrees so the rebound adjuster and compression canister outlet are on the same side of the shock?

Thanks this site is a handy place.

v4blueyI am thinking of trying an F4i rear shock on my vtec. My weight and height are 145lb. and 5'6 1/2" so as you see I am smallish.

I have read here the F4i shock (at 12") is 3/8" or 10mm shorter than the Vtec at (12 3/8")and needs to be shimmed, no problem as I would prefer the bike lowered a bit.

As long as you drop the front around the same amount this will be fine!

The race tech site calculator tells me my rear spring for street use should be 13.63kg/mm on the F4i (14.33kg/mm for a vtec). This so happens to be near the F4i spring weight which is 14.2kg/mm.

I would just run the stock F4i spring (very close to your needs)and save the money and hassle as most bikes are built for people like you.

1. Do you think it will be ok or would the extra weight of the vtec be a problem or are there some other possible problems I am unaware of?

Don't do much two up riding.

No worries IMO!

2. Can you twist the shock 180 degrees so the rebound adjuster and compression canister outlet are on the same side of the shock?

yes, I'm pretty you can just spin it.

Thanks this site is a handy place.

v4blueySorry to be a pain Guys, Another question.

How do you adjust spring preload? I'm pretty sure by all the pic's i have seen that the standard Vtec tool wouldn't work!

Thanks in advance.

The F4i shock does Not have ideal pre-load adjuster location on the Vtec, but it's doing able as per FotoMoto. You would need a different adjuster, but you really only have to set it once(Sag) if you don't go back & forth from solo to 2-up or loaded touring. :P

i bought a spanner of ebay, set it once and never touched again as BR said.

v4bluey

turtlecreeki bought a spanner of ebay, set it once and never touched again as BR said.

Turtle, What i s this spanner like? I'm thinking I might need one as I do the pillion thing sometimes.

here is the one i purchased:

http://pitposse.stores.yahoo.net/psprsp.html

BaileyrockSorry, Doug aka Foto Moto was the first to install both a F4i shock and 98-99 Catless headers on a Vtec(after I told him how of course) :P

NEVER trust anything Baileyrock types after, oh say, 2:30 in the afteroon. :wheel:

[image: Picture366.jpg]

Don't forget the Blackbird shock as on VTEC stock option.

[image: P8150454.jpg]

The Blackbird is on the left and the stock VTEC shock on the right (with an aftermarket spring).

The Blackbird shock doesn't have any extra adjustability over the VTEC shock, but it is slightly longer (higher ride height) and it has a stiffer spring (16.1 kg vs 15.3 kg).

Darth BlingDon't forget the Blackbird shock as on VTEC stock option.

The Blackbird shock doesn't have any extra adjustability over the VTEC shock, but it is slightly longer (higher ride height) and it has a stiffer spring (16.1 kg vs 15.3 kg).

Yes another good bolt in, but like mentioned min. adjustments and vtec quality. :pissed:

I actually installed one one my 2000 back in 01, but had to add a spacer.

As I stated in another thread, I was able to fit the 929 shock on my VTEC. It fit real close to the cylinder head and metal brake lines, but it fit. I did have to modify the bracket that holds one of the brake valve units. And now with a long screwdriver I can adjust the comp and rebound pretty easily.

gll429any idea what the #s on an ohlins spring mean?

01095-54/140 L346

i plan on putting it on my rebuilt fox shock. for my 94vfr rc30 replica.

Here ya go!

Shows thats a 7.1" 799lb spring! To soft for any VFR unless you weight a 100lbs. :wheel:

[image: Ohlinsspringchart.jpg]

Camperguy

Darth BlingDon't forget the Blackbird shock as on VTEC stock option.

...

The Blackbird shock doesn't have any extra adjustability over the VTEC shock, but it is slightly longer (higher ride height) and it has a stiffer spring (16.1 kg vs 15.3 kg).

Has anyone done this? Seems like it would quicken steering a little and help with laden with luggage/passenger.Is this a direct bolt in?

Bill

Yes, I've done it. It is a direct bolt in.

gll429

Baileyrock

gll429any idea what the #s on an ohlins spring mean?

01095-54/140 L346

i plan on putting it on my rebuilt fox shock. for my 94vfr rc30 replica.

Here ya go!

Shows thats a 7.1" 799lb spring! To soft for any VFR unless you weight a 100lbs. +1.gif

am dead tired.. and buzzed cant read the chart well. are you sure? i told the guy selling the springs on ebay . i ride a vfr 2 up most of the time!!!! ggggrrrrr :goofy:

The stock VFR800 spring is 15.3 kg, or 857 lbs. So your 799 lbs spring is actually softer. sad.gif

For comparison, i'm running a 1050 lbs spring on my Elka shock and i weight about 190 lbs.

gll429am dead tired.. and buzzed cant read the chart well. are you sure? i told the guy selling the springs on ebay . i ride a vfr 2 up most of the time!!!! ggggrrrrr :goofy:

The fool obveiously didn't have a clue what he was talking about! <_<

I'm 190 lbs and running a 19kg (1066 lb) rear spring on my 02 vfr.

One problem with VFR's and springs is that they tend to run spring rates on the highest end of avg. rates on many other bikes and a 14 kg spring would be a heavy spring for a GSXR or simular, but not the VFR.

What do you weight, that's the only way to know what spring you need on your VFR(year?)! +1.gif

mechdziner714I need help w/ spring specs for a 929 shock. I want to incease the rate by 20% like I did on the forks. Orig rate is 15.3, so the 19.36 seems like the right one. What are the dims of the spring (length and ID)? Then how do I make senso of the chart to come up w/ the part #?

Across the top of the chart is spring leignth, I think the F4i shock uses a 7" spring so the 1095- would be the length you need (7.1"). Ohlins mostly uses Neuton Meters, which is real close to kg but not exact.

Call Ohlins USA at 828-692-4525

and order a 1095-79/190 if in fact the F4i uses a 7" spring.

That's a 7.1"x 2.250" x 1085lb spring! :thumbsup:

NM to KG = nm divided 9.845(there abouts)= kg

kg to lbs = kg x 56.1= lbs +1.gif

Looks like nm to lbs would be: nm x 5.71= lbs! :thumbsup:

Baileyrock

mechdziner714I need help w/ spring specs for a 929 shock. I want to incease the rate by 20% like I did on the forks. Orig rate is 15.3, so the 19.36 seems like the right one. What are the dims of the spring (length and ID)? Then how do I make senso of the chart to come up w/ the part #?

Across the top of the chart is spring leignth, I think the F4i shock uses a 7" spring so the 1095- would be the length you need (7.1"). Ohlins mostly uses Neuton Meters, which is real close to kg but not exact.

Call Ohlins USA at 828-692-4525

and order a 1095-79/190 if in fact the F4i uses a 7" spring.

That's a 7.1"x 2.250" x 1085lb spring! :thumbsup:

NM to KG = nm divided 9.845(there abouts)= kg

kg to lbs = kg x 56.1= lbs +1.gif

Looks like nm to lbs would be: nm x 5.71= lbs! :thumbsup:

not trying to be an ass engineer, but the spring rate conversion is kg/mm to lbs/in for the 56x multiplier. i only point this out in the event they list the springs in some other format (ie kg/cm or lbs/thou or...) ok, i am being an a** :goofy:

Baileyrock

mechdziner714I need help w/ spring specs for a 929 shock. I want to incease the rate by 20% like I did on the forks. Orig rate is 15.3, so the 19.36 seems like the right one. What are the dims of the spring (length and ID)? Then how do I make senso of the chart to come up w/ the part #?

Across the top of the chart is spring leignth, I think the F4i shock uses a 7" spring so the 1095- would be the length you need (7.1"). Ohlins mostly uses Neuton Meters, which is real close to kg but not exact.

Call Ohlins USA at 828-692-4525

and order a 1095-79/190 if in fact the F4i uses a 7" spring.

That's a 7.1"x 2.250" x 1085lb spring! :thumbsup:

NM to KG = nm divided 9.845(there abouts)= kg

kg to lbs = kg x 56.1= lbs +1.gif

Looks like nm to lbs would be: nm x 5.71= lbs! :thumbsup:

I can't speak for the F4i, but I know the free length of a 929 rear spring is 6 7/16 inches.

So you should probably get the 1092 ohlins spring (6.7 inches). You'll end up with an extra 6.7 mm of preload though since the Ohlins spring is a tad bit longer than the stock 929 spring.

It is not a direct swap as the lower mount is different. Don't know about shock length.

Here is a pic of the 3rd & 4th gen dampers.

[image: rc36dempersrl6.jpg]

Thanks Rosso, so the bearings on the 90 to 93 models aren't built into the shock lower mount but must be on the lower wishbone or whatever the lower fixation point is on the bike... hmmmm. Wonder what a solution for that would be...

AuspañolThanks Rosso, so the bearings on the 90 to 93 models aren't built into the shock lower mount but must be on the lower wishbone or whatever the lower fixation point is on the bike... hmmmm. Wonder what a solution for that would be...

Most of the GSXR shocks mount that way and are very pleantiful and cheap, just need shock length and a much bigger spring! :pissed:

Cheers Bro!! I'll pass the tip on, he's not of a grand stature you might say, so the softer spring may not be a problem... unless there's also a big difference in the weight of the bike... a VFR750 from 1990 should weigh quite a bit less than the 5th and 6th gens...

AuspañolCheers Bro!! I'll pass the tip on, he's not of a grand stature you might say, so the softer spring may not be a problem... unless there's also a big difference in the weight of the bike... a VFR750 from 1990 should weigh quite a bit less than the 5th and 6th gens...

IIRC, the 3rd gen actually weighs more than the 4th, 5th and 6th gen bikes. 5th gen the lightest, 4th and 6th about the same, 3rd gen (1990-93) the heaviest.

Beck

95 VFR

These are both 929 shocks, the white spring ones came on the Erion versions of the 929 and yellow spings on the standard 929.

[image: Picture104.jpg]

Is the Erion Version any different?

spotthedoggThese are both 929 shocks, the white spring ones came on the Erion versions of the 929 and yellow spings on the standard 929.

Is the Erion Version any different?

I'm not aware of any difference, but they do have different part numbers. I guess that could just indicate spring color? :blink:

I'm not sure how you could find out if they was any valving or spring rate difference. :laugh:

[image: Picture366.jpg]

Going off on a tangent for a moment:

Anyone ever noticed that BR could easily place 3rd in a Billy Bob Thornton Look-a-like contest?

I bought a used Penske for my VFR from a friend who ran it in his 2002 VFR. He states that it has an 1100 pound spring, but the guy weighs about 230 pounds.

Anyway I installed it and with the preload collar turned all the way to the top, I am only getting about 20 mm of sag, (I weigh 183 pound in street clothes). I am thinking this thing has a heavier spring than what he said.

Will try riding it a bit when weather permits to see how it feels, but I am thinking I will be re-springing it before the Texas Mac.

johnmark101I bought a used Penske for my VFR from a friend who ran it in his 2002 VFR. He states that it has an 1100 pound spring, but the guy weighs about 230 pounds.

Anyway I installed it and with the preload collar turned all the way to the top, I am only getting about 20 mm of sag, (I weigh 183 pound in street clothes). I am thinking this thing has a heavier spring than what he said.

Will try riding it a bit when weather permits to see how it feels, but I am thinking I will be re-springing it before the Texas Mac.

I would guess your right in thinking it's a stiffer spring, as he should have been more in the 21-23kg (1178-1290lbs) range for that weight!

I'm 190-200 and am happy with the 19kg (1065lb) spring on my Ohlins. :wheel:

I weigh 260-265 and run a 1300# spring on my Penske. Gives perfect static (10 mm) and dynamic (30 mm) sag numbers. Handles great.

Anyone happen to measure the eye-to-eye length of the 929 shock? Can't find this dimension among the numerous threads on the topic of rear shock mods... can y'all confirm it has the same spring rate as the VTEC OEM shock as stated here. At least one person (dallasb) has installed one on his VTEC... care to amplify installation info? Difficulties? Remedies?

I probably really need something with a stiffer spring rate, but buying an F4i shock and having it resprung would increase the cost over here ridiculously and leave it undervalved, and remedying this would make it completely economically unviable.

So just considering swapping for a 929 shock, or a BB shock (stiffer spring), but would prefer the better internals and adjustments of the 929...

So many choices and so little cash...

AuspañolAnyone happen to measure the eye-to-eye length of the 929 shock? confirm it has the same spring rate as the VTEC OEM shock as stated here.

So just considering swapping for a 929 shock, or a BB shock (stiffer spring), but would prefer the better internals and adjustments of the 929...

Well yes, 929 shock eye to eye is 11.280" .

And yes, the 929(only) has the same 15.3 kg spring rate.

A BB spring will not work on a F4/F4i or 929 shock(too long) but will work on the stock vfr shock.

The info I have on the BB spring rate is 16.8kg and bolting the the entire shock is easy on a vtec and would add a fair amount of rear ride height as I think it's .250" longer shock.

BR

Thanks Bailey... so about 286mm... that's way shorter, t'would be needing a 31mm spacer at the least...

AuspañolThanks Bailey... so about 286mm... that's way shorter, t'would be needing a 31mm spacer at the least...

Let me know if you need anything sourced out for you from this side of the pond!

I know you can get the 929 shock to work on a vtec because at least one guy did it and posted about it, but the F4i is and easier swap but does need some modding and spring change. sad.gif

theres a guy here that revalves and resprings the F4i shock for the vtec for around $250 I think.

btw if I remember right the vtec shock is like 314mm. :goofy:

I bought a 929 shock yesterday, $41 shipped.

I cant find much info on installing it on a vtec. I know it's been done.

Can anyone give more info on what is required.

soichiroI cant find much of anything. I hope i'm not opening a can of worms.

I scored a nice 929 shock for cheap so it's worth a shot.

Maybe if the pre-fab works out, I will do a how to for a vtec, maybe.

Member dallasb did this mod as stated in post #33 and I have asked him to post up his "how to" here. :angry:

soichiroI bought a 929 shock yesterday, $41 shipped.

I cant find much info on installing it on a vtec. I know it's been done.

Can anyone give more info on what is required.

The shock needs to be lengthened in order to fit the VFR. The conversion that I've been doing involves making a CNC machined lower clevis extension and machining the CBR shock to accept it. Once complete the CBR shock becomes a direct replacement for the original. Here are some pictures of what it looks like:

[image: dsc01121_1.jpg]

[image: dsc01122_1.jpg]

JamieDaugherty[image: dsc01121_1.jpg]

Jamie,

This is the exact opposite of where the mount extension needs to be trying to install a 929/954 shock on a Vtec. It is the reservoir clearance that is the biggest factor, trying to get it as low as possible is how it would work. This means the mount spacer NEEDS to be on the top, not bottom!

Is this set-up interchangeable top to bottom?

y2kvfrI have a 5th gen I'm about to do the top mount extension on ... (as in tonight...) I'll be using the stock clevis with the 929 dog bone end. Just have to find a longer bolt.

It's a pretty straight forward mod on the 5th gen

http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.p...c=17268&hl=

Were working on a much tougher 6th gen install in this thread! :biggrin:

I have put the CBR929 shock on my '02, here is how I did it.

3 problems you run into:

1) Shock length is wrong, too short, I made a top mount like they are doing on the 5th gen and I think the F3 shocks, I don't remember the measurement, but it needed to be longer, and I like to to my own calculations anyway so I know it is correct. I also made a longer one to raise the tail of it

2) The brake proportioning valve bracket is in the way of the reservoir on the shock, you need to cut it and make a new piece to weld in. The picture trys to illustrate it. You have to at least undo the top subframe mount and pull this thing out of there. Cut it, weld a new piece in it, paint it, put it back in, sounds easy, it is a little work though. Sorry, no pics from my bike, it is a little work to pull out and didn't take any before I put it in.

vfrmod.GIF

3) Shock reservoir hits the brake lines next to the rear cylinder head. There is no way to take a pic of this, but the reservoir is really close to the cylinder head, I just had to push the metal brake lines that were in the way up a little bit, not much room at all, but I did make it work.

I tried to flip around the reservoir, you would have to move/cut more stuff. Here is a pic of the compression adjuster, just requires a little longer flat head screw driver. Access to the preload is quite easy from the left side. Rebound adjuster is in the stock shock's position.

CBR929 shock on VTEC, showing comp adjuster

848SD

JamieDaugherty

848SDHas anyone tried using 93-99 CBR900RR shocks? I am replacing my CBR's shock with an Ohlins and it looks like, at first glance, that it should fit well.

Thanks.

That would require the same modification as a CBR929RR rear shock. It's also too short to fit the VFR directly. You might be more specific, the shocks changed about three or four times during the 93-99 period and the relative performance of each varies somewhat. The leghts changed as well.

The shock is from a '93 CBR900RR. I don't have the data from Honda regarding length and stroke, but from Ohlins, for comparison purposes, they list the 900RR shock length at 319mm, stroke of 54mm. For the 6thGen VFR, for which Ohlins has 2 models, they list length for both models at 317.5mm, and strokes of 53.5 and 54.5mm.

At least from this data, the CBR shock is 1.5mm longer, and smack in the middle of the two VFR shocks wrt stroke at 54mm.

Thanks in advance for any insight.

Yes, the 93's are the longest of the 900RR shocks. My notes show the 93 900RR shock to be 326mm and the 02+ VFR as 315mm, that's a huge difference. I'd measure the 900RR shock to be sure. Ohlins probably makes the shocks shorter to cover more years and let's the user adjust the length to suit. Adjustable ride height is a great thing.

Hi all

I'm planning to swap with a '97 Cbr 900 Ohlins shock for my fifth gen

as for references, I found that oem spring rates are different

http://www.racetech.com/evalving/english/S...angname=english

http://www.racetech.com/evalving/english/S...angname=english

14.6 kg/mm for Cbr vs 15.3 kg/mm for Vfr, but the Ohlins I found has a spring code 01092-59 /150 L064 that implies just the right spring rate for the fifth generation (if I'm not wrong)

for lenght references I use this site

http://www.fournales.fr/catalogue/2%20Roue...20Husqvarna.htm

so I'd have to add just 5mm :goofy:

btw in the next future probably I'll go to Andreani, italian Ohlins specialist, for a perfect setup, and the eventual regeneration of forks (I've Cbr 900 forks wink.gif ) and monoshock :biggrin:

BaileyrockWhat was the spring rate on the different years 900rr's?

Thax

The 92-94's had 15.0kg/mm and all other years had 14.6kg/mm stock. Why?

AlexPYup its about the millage, so Blackbird's shock goes in without any mods?

Yep, straight bolt in and the added length with quicken steering some! Also the slightly stiffer spring will help with your weight! :fing02:

Hello everybody….first of all sorry for my bad english :ph34r:

I really need your help guys

Here is the problem :

I bought, for my 04 vfr vtec, an ohlins sock (type S46HR1C1L with code HO 605)

This sock came with the standard spring (i think 01092-69)

Fully preloaded my dynamic sag is 25 mm only with me on the bike and without my boots, leathers, hard bags etc (with all this and my wife, probably it will go 55).

Now, I ride often with my wife on the back of the bike (me 200 pounds + wife 115 pounds ).

What do you suggest that i must do

1.Change the sping ???Cod No ???(which one will cover the range of my needs, ride alone – ride with passenger and bags).

2.Put a spacer (say about 10 mm) between spring and the top of the sock, or even better ( I don t know if this possible) adjust the basic position of the hydraulic preload, this way i think that i ll put some extra preload on the sping altought it is not for my weight .

Wow I m really confused… :biggrin:

Thanks

sotokanHello everybody….first of all sorry for my bad english :ph34r:

I really need your help guys

Here is the problem :

I bought, for my 04 vfr vtec, an ohlins sock (type S46HR1C1L with code HO 605)

This sock came with the standard spring (i think 01092-69)

Fully preloaded my dynamic sag is 25 mm only with me on the bike and without my boots, leathers, hard bags etc (with all this and my wife, probably it will go 55).

Now, I ride often with my wife on the back of the bike (me 200 pounds + wife 115 pounds ).

What do you suggest that i must do

1.Change the sping ???Cod No ???(which one will cover the range of my needs, ride alone – ride with passenger and bags).

2.Put a spacer (say about 10 mm) between spring and the top of the sock, or even better ( I don t know if this possible) adjust the basic position of the hydraulic preload, this way i think that i ll put some extra preload on the sping altought it is not for my weight .

Wow I m really confused… :biggrin:

Thanks

Hello,

It looks like the shock came with a heavier spring than stock(15.3kg) as it's a 17.34kg, most likely a little soft for your weight. Does the bike have any Free Sag(no rider sag) when you have it maxed out to achieve the 30mm?

Here's the Ohlins spring chart: read the blue numbers, spring length across the top and rate on the side.

[image: Ohlinsspringchart.jpg]

I weight 190 lbs and run a 19kg spring on my Ohlins and would suggest a 19-20kg spring(Ohlins 1092-79 or 1092-84). Adding extra preload (with spacer) is Not the correct way to set the bike up. :ph34r: You need the correct springs for your weight to start with.If you do a lot of two-up I would go with the 1092-84 myself.

vlj1216My question is will my firmer blackbird spring swap to the 929 shock?

Nah, it's too long.

Hey Jamie, any update on the 929 shock upper mount extension?

Yeah, I'm very interested also. Given the correct length of the extension, It would be PERFECT to put a 929 shock in a 4th GEN. :biggrin:

vlj1216Hey Jamie, any update on the 929 shock upper mount extension?

For the 6th gens I'm working a CBR954 upper extension. I think the oreintation of the reservoir on the 954's will suit those bikes better. I've got the first CNC parts made I just have a few more details to sort out before building some prototypes.

rangemasterYeah, I'm very interested also. Given the correct length of the extension, It would be PERFECT to put a 929 shock in a 4th GEN. :fing02:

I've been doing lots of CBR929's for the 4th gens and it works great!

JamieDaugherty

AlexPHas anyone put blackbird shock into VFR800 vtec? If yes any pictures / info would be greatly appreciated.

There's no real performance advantage to the 1100XX shock. It's a tad longer at 320mm, so that would be nice. Besides that, you would need to upgrade the valving in the XX shock at minimum in order to see any improvement.

Since the 6th gens use a 315mm long shock you are kind of out of luck when it comes to options.

I put a blackbird shock on my 6th Gen and it's was pretty much the way Jamie describes it.

It was nice that it was a tad longer, and it was nice that the spring was a tad bit stiffer. Otherwise, it was the same POS crap shock that the OEM 6th Gen has.

I eventually upgraded to a full Elka shock, so I sold the shock to Silver788. He found that the shock was a nice improvement for his 5th Gen since the Blackbird shock with its stiffer spring supports his weight better than the stock VFR shock.

Just put in Blackbird aftermarket shock from K tech UK

http://cgi.ebay.ie/HONDA-BLACKBIRD-REPLACE...id=p3286.c0.m14

Give them a shout you can get a better deal by going direct.

As for the shock its the same lenght as orginal and can be adjusted,

here the spec

Top Mount: 10mm dia hole x 28mm wide.

Bott Mount: 10mm dia hole x 39mm wide.

Length: 315mm – 325mm.

Price: £293.55 inc VAT

Ride quality is amazing just need to adjust reboud and thats it really.

I will put a more detail about instalation later. If you need any info let me know.

dallasb

I have put the CBR929 shock on my '02, here is how I did it.

3 problems you run into:

1) Shock length is wrong, too short, I made a top mount like they are doing on the 5th gen and I think the F3 shocks, I don't remember the measurement, but it needed to be longer, and I like to to my own calculations anyway so I know it is correct. I also made a longer one to raise the tail of it

2) The brake proportioning valve bracket is in the way of the reservoir on the shock, you need to cut it and make a new piece to weld in. The picture trys to illustrate it. You have to at least undo the top subframe mount and pull this thing out of there. Cut it, weld a new piece in it, paint it, put it back in, sounds easy, it is a little work though. Sorry, no pics from my bike, it is a little work to pull out and didn't take any before I put it in.

vfrmod.GIF

3) Shock reservoir hits the brake lines next to the rear cylinder head. There is no way to take a pic of this, but the reservoir is really close to the cylinder head, I just had to push the metal brake lines that were in the way up a little bit, not much room at all, but I did make it work.

I tried to flip around the reservoir, you would have to move/cut more stuff. Here is a pic of the compression adjuster, just requires a little longer flat head screw driver. Access to the preload is quite easy from the left side. Rebound adjuster is in the stock shock's position.

CBR929 shock on VTEC, showing comp adjuster

Thanks again for posting this up! :rolleyes:

Smokey74

I've read through this thread but I'm still not sure what I should do. I have a like new F3 shock. An F4 shock seems to be the best option on a budget but it sounds like the F3 shock is the same except for length? Does someone on here make or sell an extension for the F3 shock? If not it might be easier for me to buy an F4 shock.. I have an 02 VFR. I'd like to have it sprung for a 200 lbs. rider with rebound and comp adjustments. When I have more money I'm buying an Elka shock but for now I just want to improve it a little with a used set up. I've also considered buying the Blackbird shock but I don't think they have any more adjustment than the stock VFR shock. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks

Hi and welcome to VFRD! :happy:

I don't recall how long or what the stroke of the F3 shock is, but do know that many have done the F4/F4i shock swap. Most all CBR shocks are sprung way soft vs VFR's like in the 14kg range where the stock vfr is a soft 15.3kg.

I run a 19kg on my F3 Ohlins and it works great for my 190 lbs, I would go with a 19-20 kg for your weight. I doubt the stock valving of a F3/F4 shock will be adequate for a 19kg spring, but you could always try it and see. You may not have much adjust-ability but if it controlled the spring then it would be good enough until you buy you Elka.

Otherwise you'll have to spend some bucks revalving the shock on top of buying a spring. Member JD does the entire mod with spring/valving/extension for less than $300 I think. :ohmy:

[image: View Post]BaileyRock, on 05 February 2010 - 06:12 PM, said:

[image: View Post]Junyr, on 05 February 2010 - 04:51 PM, said:

Junyr

BaileyRock

Junyr

I'm not a real aggressive rider, but I would like my suspension to be more tuned to my weight. Is it an option to get a heavier spring to go on the stock shock? I weigh about 225lbs.

Howdy! biggrin.gif

Your weight will require springs in the area of .95 kg front(min)and 1200 lb rear spring (min) rear. You don't mention what Gen VFR your riding, we can better suggest Mods if we have more info. fing02.gif

Welcome to VFRD btw.

BR

Sorry about the slow response. My bad on the year, it's an '02. I didn't think to put the year in since it was the "Sixth Gen fourms" mellow.gif

Is the 6th gen spring alone replaceable on the stock shock? I just got the bike and dont' want the wife to slit my throat by spending 800 dollars on a new shock quite yet.

Thanks!

No you are right it is a 6th gen thread, but many 5th gen guys have posted too and what works/fits a 5th gen doesn't always work on the 6th. :fing02:

Yes you can change out the spring on the VFR shock, but it's a POS compared to most other Honda sport bike shocks and I wouldn't waste the time or money putting a 1200-1300 lb spring on a stock VFR shock.

Options:

The easiest mod I would suggest is to install a CBR 1100XX shock on it, it's not stiff enough for your weight but it's a bolt in mod and will quicken the steering a little because it's slightly longer. Stock VFR rear shock has a 15.3 kg spring, the XX has a 16.8 kg spring. It's only 10% stiffer, but that's better and would add some extra ground clearance too.

The next step would be slapping a 1200 lb spring on a F4i shock with a 12mm (or bigger)top mount spacer and hope there's enough rebound adjustment to control the 1200 lb spring, if so your in like flint. :goofy:

Either one of these shocks(F4i, CBR xx) can be had for $50 ON EBAY and the F4i shock has rebound & compression adjustment.

Springs avg. $100 per end(front/rear). The 929 shock is a common mod for 5th gen, but there's a fitment issue on 6th gen that requires a mod to a bracket at the rear of the bike too.

The next step is to have someone re-valve an F4i shock for the 1200-1300lb spring, JamieDaughtery is member here who does that. This is probably around $300 w/new spring.

Used Ohlins or Penskes are another choice, I found a Ohlins on eBay from a CBR F2/F3 for $300 and installed a 19kg spring w/no valving change and it works Great, only had to make a spacer for the top mount.

Lots of options out there which cost less than new but require some slight mods.

BR

[image: View Post]BaileyRock, on 07 February 2010 - 02:57 PM, said:

[image: View Post]Junyr, on 06 February 2010 - 08:00 PM, said:

[image: View Post]BaileyRock, on 05 February 2010 - 06:12 PM, said:

[image: View Post]Junyr, on 05 February 2010 - 04:51 PM, said:

[image: View Post]rangemaster, on 07 February 2010 - 03:46 PM, said:

[image: View Post]Junyr, on 07 February 2010 - 10:02 PM, said:

[image: View Post]BaileyRock, on 08 February 2010 - 09:15 AM, said:

[image: View Post]rangemaster, on 07 February 2010 - 03:46 PM, said:

[image: View Post]rangemaster, on 08 February 2010 - 11:31 PM, said:

[image: View Post]BaileyRock, on 08 February 2010 - 09:15 AM, said:

[image: View Post]rangemaster, on 07 February 2010 - 03:46 PM, said:

turtlecreek

Does anyone know if a shock from a VTR1000 will work on the 6th gen?

It looks to be the same length shock, but wanted to see if anyone had tried it. If so, is the spring rate similar?

TC,

Looks like it's a good fit for a 5th gen length wise as the VTR shock is listed at 326mm where the 5th gen is 325mm & the vtec is 317mm. Stroke is 63mm vs 58/53mm for the VFR800's.

If it's an aftermarket VTR shock like Ohlins or Penske that has ride height adjustment then it might adjust short enough for a 6th gen. :cheerleader:

BR

[image: View Post]BaileyRock, on 11 March 2010 - 03:13 PM, said:

[image: View Post]turtlecreek, on 11 March 2010 - 12:14 PM, said:

Just an update/FYI - I bought a used 6th gen OEM shock last fall and had Jamie rebuild and re-spring it for my weight. Turned out great! A buddy and I installed it last month and, coupled with heavier fork springs and oil, my VFR finally handles like a sportbike - even with my fat arse on it! :fing02:

PLCGuy

I installed a stock VFR rear shock on my 84 VF1000f. Works much better than the stocker, but is a little too soft. Is there a stiffer spring I could salvage off a bone yard shock that fits this model shock?

I hind sight a blackbird shock looks pretty good and 10% stiffer, but I don't have access to the machine shop I used to when I did the VFR shock.

Actually if I'm not mistaken the XX Blackbird has the stiffest spring of this type shock that Honda uses at 16.9kg. :blush:

PLCGuy

BaileyRock

PLCGuy

I installed a stock VFR rear shock on my 84 VF1000f. Works much better than the stocker, but is a little too soft. Is there a stiffer spring I could salvage off a bone yard shock that fits this model shock?

I hind sight a blackbird shock looks pretty good and 10% stiffer, but I don't have access to the machine shop I used to when I did the VFR shock.

Actually if I'm not mistaken the XX Blackbird has the stiffest spring of this type shock that Honda uses at 16.9kg. :blush:

I had read that the XX Blackbird has the stiffest spring of this type shock. Do you know if that spring will fit the VFR shock? I was trying to find spring dimensions for the VFR shock. I can rough measure mine in the bike, but I don't have a feel for how critical that number is. I also don't know free height of the vfr spring either.

Yes, it fits as I installed an XX spring on my 00 VFR shock. I should have just installed the XX shock instead! :blush:

For anyone that might be interested.... I've been working on a minimal cost suspension upgrade, with the thought of being able to progress into a much more proper completed system in the future without having to replace the new parts as I build.

(My stats are, wt. 255 lbs. ; six-gen VFR ; In-between kneedragging and NOT)

I had my forks cleaned and assembled with "sonic" 1.0 non-progressive springs, And 5-wt fork oil. I start my test rides(usually 100 to 200 mile for each eval'). The 1st thing, I left my sag alone just to see how the spring felt, then did some sag adjustments, I increased the rear dampener 1/8 of a turn(and might back that off a mm). For my next run I lowered my front 3mm(only).

So far I'm loving it. The changes are that it turns in with no effort under normal S's riding I find my comfort zone went up about 10 mph +. One other thing is, it turns well in the slow parking-lot maneuvers as well. For me, I'm glad I didn't lower the front any more than this(at least for the time being).

I'm thinking about rebuilding my stock shock and changing the spring at another time after T-Mac's rally. For now it's fine.

Bailey... did you ever actually install a 929 shock on your VTECker??

I just forked out the cash on one and have just seen these recent posts on clearance issues that I hadn't seen on older posts...

I was hoping just having a longer top mounting bracket machined would be all I had to worry about...

These are both 929 shocks, the white spring ones came on the Erion versions of the 929 and yellow springs on the standard 929.

[image: Picture104.jpg]

Bailey (or anyone else for that matter)... do you know if there is any difference other than colour between the Erion and Regular version of the 929er??

From what I've read the 929er has the same spring rate as the VTECker.

New longer top bracket to be what?? 30 - 42 mm longer?? I wouldn't mind some 10mm more seat height.

Auspañol

Bailey (or anyone else for that matter)... do you know if there is any difference other than colour between the Erion and Regular version of the 929er??

Never could find out if there was any difference other than Spring color!

From what I've read the 929er has the same spring rate as the VTECker.

Yep, 15.3kg

New longer top bracket to be what?? 30 - 42 mm longer?? I wouldn't mind some 10mm more seat height.

I think the 929 is approx 288mm long eye center to eye center where as the Vtec is like 314mm so the Min. length spacer would be 26mm. I would say 28-30mm would be a good starting point and washers could be used to add height if desired!

So, i just got a Gen 6 (2004).

Prior bike is 1993 VFR750 with Hyperpro that i had custom built with longer pushrod and spring/valving for my riding. Unfortunately, that shock isn't going to fit my 2004, from what I have read.

I am currently having my mountain bike rear shock custom rebuilt and custom valved by PUSH Industries, here in Colorado. They don't know it yet, but I am going to ask if they would do a RaceTech spring and gold valve installation on my stock Showa unit.

I am wondering if this my best/lowest cost solution under $500? I know that stock shocks suck. I gave my KLR Showa away and had a custom shock done by Cogent Dynamics. But, since the VFR isn't going offroad, I am hoping that a properly sprung and valved Showa might be OK for my purposes.

Soliciting comments.

BoulderGeek

I am wondering if this my best/lowest cost solution under $500? I know that stock shocks suck. I gave my KLR Showa away and had a custom shock done by Cogent Dynamics. But, since the VFR isn't going offroad, I am hoping that a properly sprung and valved Showa might be OK for my purposes.

Soliciting comments.

This is the most common way to upgrade forks, but because it's so easy to change a shock I don't know of anyone who has done this.

Not sure I would trust a MTB shock builder to do a motorcycle shock. Air shocks are different.

Ryanme17

BoulderGeek

I am wondering if this my best/lowest cost solution under $500? I know that stock shocks suck. I gave my KLR Showa away and had a custom shock done by Cogent Dynamics. But, since the VFR isn't going offroad, I am hoping that a properly sprung and valved Showa might be OK for my purposes.

Soliciting comments.

This is the most common way to upgrade forks, but because it's so easy to change a shock I don't know of anyone who has done this.

Not sure I would trust a MTB shock builder to do a motorcycle shock. Air shocks are different.

Well, they also do motocross shocks, and are branching more into motorcycle applications. I've seen their shop and spring press jigs. They can easily do a Gold Valve and spring install. Whether they _will_ or not remains to be seen.

Since we get a VFRd discount, and I have RaceTech experience, this is what I am initially inclined to do.

Where are people sourcing CBR XX shocks?

BoulderGeek

So, i just got a Gen 6 (2004).

I am going to ask if they would do a RaceTech spring and gold valve installation on my stock Showa unit.

I am wondering if this my best/lowest cost solution under $500?

I would suggest you have the shop set-up a CBR F4i shock which would give you both Comp/Rebound adjustments for your 6th gen vs the crappy and mostly non-adjustable VFR shock. There should be little to No difference in cost and you should be able to pick one up of eBay for less than $50 shipped. :fing02:

The only other need would be a modded top mount with a 3/8" spacer on it.

IMO if someone is going to spend hundreds of dollars having a shock rebuilt and set-up for your VFR you might as well get as many adjustments as possible! :biggrin:

BR

I picked up my CBR F4i shock off ebay for $50 last year, after following the suggestions here. I had the spring replaced on it, and then had racetech springs & valves done in my front forks. I love it.

OK, riddle me this: should my aftermarket Hyperpro shock mounted in my 1993 Gen 3 drop into my 2004 Gen 6?

If so, i'm done. I'd rather not take both bikes apart and find that it doesn't. I'm sort of lazy that way. :computer-noworky: :rolleyes: :schla15:

BoulderGeek

OK, riddle me this: should my aftermarket Hyperpro shock mounted in my 1993 Gen 3 drop into my 2004 Gen 6?

If so, i'm done. I'd rather not take both bikes apart and find that it doesn't. I'm sort of lazy that way. :computer-noworky: :rolleyes: :schla15:

I doubt there are the same length, BUT someone here should have some numbers on a 3rd gen shock. The Vtec is 314mm eye to eye.

Is the Hyperpro shock Ride Height adjustable?

BR

I can only find the following data related to shocks that I have collated from all the threads.... I think I have some 3rd gen info somewhere but can't find it.

Spring rates

VFR1200F = 18.5kg/mm

VFR800 (5th & 6th gens) = 15.3kg/mm

CBR929 = 15.3kg/mm +/- same stroke length 57mm Vs 58mm (related to VTEC)

CBR954 = 14.6kg/mm

CBR XX = 16kg/mm

Bolt for extender (fitting 929 shock to 6th gen): 10x110-115mm (grind head for 5th gen)

Spacer for extender: 28-30mm

Eye-to-eye lengths

4th gen = 324mm (325mm)

5th gen = 325mm

6th gen = 316mm (317.5mm)

CBR929 = 286mm (288mm, 287mm)

CBR954 = 282mm

929 spring 4mm longer than 6th gen spring??

929 adjuster wrench part #: 89202-KY1-700

Thanks for that info.

It's weird to me, the new 2004 VFR rides as actively as my modified 1993. I didn't get maintenance records from the prior owner. He was the second owner, and only had it for 1,000 miles and one year. He didn't know anything about the first owner modifying the suspension, but I find it hard to believe that it rides as well as it does on a stock Showa. I guess I need to dig in there and see if I can find any evidence of mods.

BoulderGeek

Thanks for that info.

It's weird to me, the new 2004 VFR rides as actively as my modified 1993. I didn't get maintenance records from the prior owner. He was the second owner, and only had it for 1,000 miles and one year. He didn't know anything about the first owner modifying the suspension, but I find it hard to believe that it rides as well as it does on a stock Showa. I guess I need to dig in there and see if I can find any evidence of mods.

I have friends with 3rd and 4th gens that would run rings around some of the best riders on this forum... they are quite light and nimble bikes

So, it looks like my options are:

1. Ohlins S46DR1S @ ~$750

2. Try to swap the Hyperpro in my Gen 3, if the bearings can be made to fit. Cost: only time

3. Respring/revalve the stock Showa @ ~$300 with Racetech forum discount

4. Source F4i shock from flEabay for $50 and do above, ~$350 + locate appropriate spacer

I spent weekend time examining swapping rear wheels from '93 to '04. learned that the gen 6 wheel needs to be machined to clear the hub mounting bolts on the '93 drive unit. So, no shock fun, yet.

I upgraded my suspension with Jamie Daugherty (occasionally postes on VFRD). I have to give him props.... The forks are a great improvement over stock, and he also provided me with a revalved/sprung 929 rear shock. Although I struggled with the installation ('07 non-ABS), it did fit....barely but with no modifications necessary for just installation (access to adjusters-maybe). I did, however have to remove the adapter he provided, and reinstall it after the shock was in place.

The bike turns much better, with less dive under braking and less squat under acceleration than before -- and that's without touching any adjustments, just installing it as he sent it. I'll check the sag and maybe adjust a little rebound dampening in the shock, but I expect the adjustments to be minor. He did all this from the information that I provided...weight, ridiing condition/level, etc.

slowhare

I upgraded my suspension with Jamie Daugherty (occasionally postes on VFRD). I have to give him props.... The forks are a great improvement over stock, and he also provided me with a revalved/sprung 929 rear shock. Although I struggled with the installation ('07 non-ABS), it did fit....barely but with no modifications necessary for just installation (access to adjusters-maybe). I did, however have to remove the adapter he provided, and reinstall it after the shock was in place.

The bike turns much better, with less dive under braking and less squat under acceleration than before -- and that's without touching any adjustments, just installing it as he sent it. I'll check the sag and maybe adjust a little rebound dampening in the shock, but I expect the adjustments to be minor. He did all this from the information that I provided...weight, ridiing condition/level, etc.

We would like ALL the info on this install as you are the first to get a 929 shock to fit a Vtec w/o more mods.

Please tell us exactly what and how you did it, where was the spacer installed? Top or bottom, what way was the reservoir facing? front or rear, is it hitting the head or tray? etc., etc.

There are several members trying to get their 929 shock to fit w/o any luck.

Thanks

BR

Baileyrock

slowhare

I upgraded my suspension with Jamie Daugherty (occasionally postes on VFRD). I have to give him props.... The forks are a great improvement over stock, and he also provided me with a revalved/sprung 929 rear shock. Although I struggled with the installation ('07 non-ABS), it did fit....barely but with no modifications necessary for just installation (access to adjusters-maybe). I did, however have to remove the adapter he provided, and reinstall it after the shock was in place.

The bike turns much better, with less dive under braking and less squat under acceleration than before -- and that's without touching any adjustments, just installing it as he sent it. I'll check the sag and maybe adjust a little rebound dampening in the shock, but I expect the adjustments to be minor. He did all this from the information that I provided...weight, ridiing condition/level, etc.

We would like ALL the info on this install as you are the first to get a 929 shock to fit a Vtec w/o more mods.

Please tell us exactly what and how you did it, where was the spacer installed? Top or bottom, what way was the reservoir facing? front or rear, is it hitting the head or tray? etc., etc.

There are several members trying to get their 929 shock to fit w/o any luck.

Thanks

BR

This is not a true statement. I have built MANY of these and they were installed without a problem. The 6th Gens are tight but it can be done without modifcation. Not sure why you are trying to discourage other forum members but this is a very viable performance upgrade for non-ABS 02+ bikes.

JamieDaugherty

Baileyrock

slowhare

I upgraded my suspension with Jamie Daugherty (occasionally postes on VFRD). I have to give him props.... The forks are a great improvement over stock, and he also provided me with a revalved/sprung 929 rear shock. Although I struggled with the installation ('07 non-ABS), it did fit....barely but with no modifications necessary for just installation (access to adjusters-maybe). I did, however have to remove the adapter he provided, and reinstall it after the shock was in place.

The bike turns much better, with less dive under braking and less squat under acceleration than before -- and that's without touching any adjustments, just installing it as he sent it. I'll check the sag and maybe adjust a little rebound dampening in the shock, but I expect the adjustments to be minor. He did all this from the information that I provided...weight, ridiing condition/level, etc.

We would like ALL the info on this install as you are the first to get a 929 shock to fit a Vtec w/o more mods.

Please tell us exactly what and how you did it, where was the spacer installed? Top or bottom, what way was the reservoir facing? front or rear, is it hitting the head or tray? etc., etc.

There are several members trying to get their 929 shock to fit w/o any luck.

Thanks

BR

This is not a true statement. I have built MANY of these and they were installed without a problem. The 6th Gens are tight but it can be done without modifcation. Not sure why you are trying to discourage other forum members but this is a very viable performance upgrade for non-ABS 02+ bikes.

Jamie,

I am only trying to help our members! They contact me for install help when trying to install 929 shocks (their buying from you) on a vtec and up until slowhare's install post I have never heard of a successful install on that app w/o the support bracket mod.

If it's a doable install then all I've been asking for is a usable procedure that can be posted up here on VFRD to help these members who Can't figure out how to make the 929 shock fit on their Vtecs! That's it. There's a thread active now WITH A MEMBER ASKING FOR THIS EXACT HELP AND A SECOND MEMBER POSTED IN THE SAME THREAD SAYING HE COULDN'T GET IT TO WORK EITHER! Both are your customers.

http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.php/topic/72834-cbr929-shock-fitment-02-non-abs/#entry859493

Can you help here???

BR

http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.php/topic/72834-cbr929-shock-fitment-02-non-abs/

Please see the pic on post #20 for how tight the fit is:

Honestly, I'm struggling to remember exactly how I sneaked it up in there, but what I do remember is:

-having on the centerstand with rear wheel removed.

-then I tried several different positions of the swingarm to get it to slide in, including using an adjustable strap to hold the swingarm in whatever position I was attempting.

-almost gave up.

-tried again, without the adaptor.

-finally got it in.

-replaced the adaptor. If I remember right I had to keep the adaptor somewhat loose until I thread the top mount through and got the nut on top started.

I realize that isn't as helpful as you all might like, but I did this a while ago. :unsure:

Hi guys,

I am the other guy who couldn't get it to nstalled but finally did it without any mods.

I followed the same procedure as Slow here after getting confirmation from Jamie to assure me it fits, and that is removing the adaptor Jamie builds for the shock to get everything in place and then screwing it back on.

This is all with the reservoir facing the front and clearing the cylinder head by only a few milimiters. I know this may affect shock performance in the long run due to heat build-up but will try as it is before doing any mods the brackets. If I find it too bad then I'll look at making the necessary changes to install it with the reservoir to the back.

So it can be done without mods, you just need to remove the adapter first.

Sent from my GT-I9300T using Tapatalk 2

Thanks for the post and help guys related to installing a 929 shock on a Vtec!!!

I agree completely with zROYz's thought's about heat here:

"The reservoir holds the nitrogen charge but the other side of bladder is oil, the heat from headers will heat the entire shock body is a big way & heat causes increased pressure in the nitrogen charge, deterioration to the rubber bladder which are already the weak point in that shock design. Add major heat to oil which already heats up from shock operation & the more heat the faster the shock oil also deteriorates. There is about zero air flow in that area so cooling effect would be again about zero, maybe after a hour or so riding reach down & feel how hot the shock body is & I bet you can't even touch for any length of time due to the heat.

I'm in noway saying the shock isn't going to be an improvement over the standard shock but that type of install must surely drop shock service interval period & have an effect on shock performance if you use say the shocks peak performance in normal operation conditions to overheated conditions as a gauge. It is all good the average punter feeling the shock is better because it will be over the standard but for the average punter to feel the decline in shock performance is asking allot & most wouldn't feel it on the VFR. Any after market shock built for the VFR has a remote compression reservoir for a reason, there R&D looking at fitments & operation is why they have that design. There is really zero R&D bolting in place any shock other than what was designed for the VFR so you have to weigh up the advantages & disadvantages. The room is already tight but if I was going to use say the 929 shock I would make the effort to mount reservoir away from headers & would still wrap the rear headers in heat tape."

I personally would NOT want to run a shock on my bike basically having it cooking itself. The whole idea of the remote reservoir is to get the charge and oil away from heat, not to put it into the oven. :huh:

Now for track days it might not be as bad as your only riding for 15-20 mins. at a time, but like zROYz stated this orientation of the reservoir will only cause issues(shock fade) that you are trying to avoid IMO!

Just because you can fit the thing in there doesn't mean it's a good application or use. IMO it would be a much better install if the reservoir was facing rearward away from the head/exhaust like it was designed to do on a CBR.

BR

I wonder if you can wrap the reservoir portion of the 929 shock in some sort of reflective heat shield/refractory batting material to deflect the engine heat......

Beck

95 VFR

Beck

I wonder if you can wrap the reservoir portion of the 929 shock in some sort of reflective heat shield/refractory batting material to deflect the engine heat......

Beck

95 VFR

That crossed my mind.

Hot rodders often use ceramic-based coatings to keep things from getting to warm. There's many many different versions, all of which claim to be the best.

I would prefer to have the reservoir away from there, but if that's not an option, coating it would be a good idea.

Heat on the reservoir is not a problem. The shock itself generates more heat than it would get from the engine. Don't worry - it's designed for that kind of environment. With good quality fluid it will be just fine.

Interested on the f4i shock swap on my 6th gen. Except the addition of spacer, is it a straight swap (planning of using the f4 spring)? Any suggestions on what type or kind of spacer to use?

had the option to buy a used f4i penski for my vfr a few months back, was told it wouldnt fit, but i dono, i recon it would have the ride height adjustment to extend it to fit

RoyS

Interested on the f4i shock swap on my 6th gen. Except the addition of spacer, is it a straight swap (planning of using the f4 spring)? Any suggestions on what type or kind of spacer to use?

Unless you weigh less than 130lbs do NOT run the F4i spring, it's like a 14kg which is softer then the already soft 15.3kg stock VFR spring.

BR

StormShadow

had the option to buy a used f4i penski for my vfr a few months back, was told it wouldnt fit, but i dono, i recon it would have the ride height adjustment to extend it to fit

If it had a hose mounted Remote Reservoir it would work no problem, if it was the Fixed type reservoir type it would not.

BR

This thread has convinced me that I was very smart to buy an Ohlins specifically designed for my motorcycle.

well, im saving up for a purpose built penski or olhins rear shock atm, as ive had bottoming issues, as i run panniers, and top box as well..

Storm, the overall design, build, and remote preload aduster and dampening controls on an Ohlins make all the difference. Other aftermarket options like Penske are good too.

It's always possible to save money with a cheapo compromise, but a fully adjustable top-quality suspension is one of the most important features of a motorcycle. I completely disagree in the strongest terms with Mr. Daugherty's subjective opinion that a top-quality suspension reveals its benefits only at the track.

But K-Mart is popular for a reason, and it isn't because K-Mart equals top quality . . .

.

one of the ebay sellers from the us tells me they get theirs from the ohlins factory, with what ever ohlins spring i want on it, from the factory, are these also valved for the spring, does anybody know?

After a bit of a hassle, with a 929 shock simply not having room without modifying both sides of the LBS bracket, I got a F4/i shock modded by JamieD and got that installed.

Only mods required were a bit of trimming of the wire tray around the battery to clear the remote-reservoir hose.

The reservoir is currently zip-tied to the frame rail just below the battery.

[image: IMG_20121019_191220.jpg]

[image: IMG_20121019_191232.jpg]

Lots here to digest. I am 230 in gear and with four kids I do not have much riding time other than a fairly short commute. I want to do a simple, cheap upgrade(less than $150). It appears my best options are the Blackbird or the VFR 1200 swap. At my weight the headlight also hits the cars ahead of me pretty high at night. My question is what is best for my needs and should I grab a shim(of what size) off of eBay too? Thanks

1TallTXn

After a bit of a hassle, with a 929 shock simply not having room without modifying both sides of the LBS bracket, I got a F4/i shock modded by JamieD and got that installed.

Only mods required were a bit of trimming of the wire tray around the battery to clear the remote-reservoir hose.

The reservoir is currently zip-tied to the frame rail just below the battery.

Great! and congrats!

BTW is the spacer on the top or bottom of the shock?

BR

Slumpbuster

Lots here to digest. I am 230 in gear and with four kids I do not have much riding time other than a fairly short commute. I want to do a simple, cheap upgrade(less than $150). It appears my best options are the Blackbird or the VFR 1200 swap. At my weight the headlight also hits the cars ahead of me pretty high at night. My question is what is best for my needs and should I grab a shim(of what size) off of eBay too? Thanks

Budget would be the Blackbird shock(bolt-in) and .95 for springs.

BR

1TallTXn

After a bit of a hassle, with a 929 shock simply not having room without modifying both sides of the LBS bracket, I got a F4/i shock modded by JamieD and got that installed.

Only mods required were a bit of trimming of the wire tray around the battery to clear the remote-reservoir hose.

The reservoir is currently zip-tied to the frame rail just below the battery.

I've found that mounting the reservoir on the right hand side does not require any modifications to the battery box. As you have shown, it can be done either way. it's always nice to have flexibility!

Baileyrock

Budget would be the Blackbird shock(bolt-in) and .95 for springs.

BR

Bear in mind the CBR-XX shock is no better than the VFR800 stock unit, so no advantage to changing to it.

Baileyrock

Great! and congrats!

BTW is the spacer on the top or bottom of the shock?

BR

Spacer is in the bracket that goes through the frame on the upper mount.

I should have taken a pic of it before installation.

JamieDaugherty

1TallTXn

After a bit of a hassle, with a 929 shock simply not having room without modifying both sides of the LBS bracket, I got a F4/i shock modded by JamieD and got that installed.

Only mods required were a bit of trimming of the wire tray around the battery to clear the remote-reservoir hose.

The reservoir is currently zip-tied to the frame rail just below the battery.

I've found that mounting the reservoir on the right hand side does not require any modifications to the battery box. As you have shown, it can be done either way. it's always nice to have flexibility!

I didn't see anywhere/way to route the hose/res to the right side, but I may have not looked at it well enough.

JamieDaugherty

Bear in mind the CBR-XX shock is no better than the VFR800 stock unit, so no advantage to changing to it.

Actually the XX shock has two befits over a VFR shock on a 6th gen for a typical heavier rider!

1- It has a stiffer spring and valving to match (16.9kg vs 15.3kg) memory serving

2- it's slightly longer raising the rear to provide quicker steering

Is it ideal? NO! but were talking simple & cheap mods that help move in the correct direction! :tongue:

BR

The CBR-XX is the same length as the 02+ VFR800 shock - FYI

JamieDaugherty

The CBR-XX is the same length as the 02+ VFR800 shock - FYI

I thought the XX rear shock was somewhere in the area of 319-322mm, while the 800 is about 315?

After much anguish and an overflowing 5 gallon Swear Jar, a JD 929 shock is in my 05. I initially trimmed and mutilated every bit of plastic around the headers off to the right, hopefully this doesn't make my butt too hot or the overheat the LBS.

Shock is installed with reservoir on left, damping adjustments accessible on right. Had to bend some brake piping out of the way and grind the LBS support frame where it bolts onto the frame on the left. Used a wizzy wheel to do this. All in all tank was loosened, wheel removed, chain guard removed, and linkage triangles/dogbone removed. No need to separate the shock extension, with the swingarm jacked all the way up, rotate the upper shock mount bolt over the reservoir and wiggle it in up from the bottom of the swingarm hole. Lower swingarm an inch or two to fit a hand in above the chain and straighten the upper shock bolt out. Insert bolt up through frame hole under tank pivot. Reattach linkage. All bolts torqued to 33ft/lbs (pounds/foot).

The key was taking my time and carefully grinding the left attachment of the LBS bracket. Bike feels amazing now! By far the worst experience I have ever had working on a bike, but one of the best (and necessary) mods for the 6th Gen to maintain its status as my long range guided missile.

No pics, although the aftermath in the garage is impressive, sawzall, Dremel, Dremel bits and wheels, hole saw, drill, air hose, wizzy wheel, grinding wheels, wrenches, allen keys, sockets, piles of plastic and metal shavings. Surprisingly no blood. And the bike still runs.

Successful surgery! The patient will be better for it...good job.

Congrats on the install .

Requesting JD to build an F4i shock instead of the 929 will save Major headache when installing in a 6th gen.

BR

Sent from my SCH-I405 using Tapatalk 2

I often wonder, "What have I gotten myself into?" whenever installation involves, Sawzall, Deremel, Grinder and the like...But as long as nothing snaps in two, breaks off at the wrong moment, or generally doesn't loose its structural integrity, I guess it's what has to be done! When I bought my Heli-Bars, one if the first instructions is to take a Dremel and cut off one of the banjo bolt stay tabs. I was a little surprised but knowing it was not going to diminish any clutch or braking capability, out came the Dremel. Oh, and any installation that does not involve blood letting is a good one. Knuckle busters are expected when working in tight spaces though.

Congrats on your install. Enjoy your "new" bike!

Cheers

Baileyrock

Congrats on the install . Requesting JD to build an F4i shock instead of the 929 will save Major headache when installing in a 6th gen. BR Sent from my SCH-I405 using Tapatalk 2

I can attest to the JDM F4i shock install on a 6th gen non-ABS is possible without modifications to any parts of a stock bike. I would not have been able to do the job by myself however (due to my limited mechanical skills). I think even an experienced MC mechanic would do well to have a helper. Fred (huntinggunns) was my mechanical expert. We did angle the mounting bracket some while lining up the bolt to the hole in the subframe and then with the shock half-way home, used a wrench to straighten the bracket before tightening the mounting nut on top. It definitely took some finagling to get it in. We removed the triangles and dogbone as well.

Baileyrock

Congrats on the install . Requesting JD to build an F4i shock instead of the 929 will save Major headache when installing in a 6th gen. BR Sent from my SCH-I405 using Tapatalk 2

I've been doing that for about three years now. The F4 is required for ABS models but either the F4 or a 929 is an option for non-ABS 6th Gen bikes.

The 929 shock with accessible preload adjuster was necessary for my application. The VFR carries a varying load from nothing but me, to grocery runs, to work clothes (including firefighter turnout gear), to overloading for extended trips.

Has anybody heard of or done business with this place? Looks like a pretty good deal for an Ohlins.

http://www.pureperformancecycles.com/Brand/Honda/Honda-VFR800/Suspension---Brakes/Ohlins-HO043-Shock-Absorber--02--12-VFR800-FI

ronimalvfr

Has anybody heard of or done business with this place? Looks like a pretty good deal for an Ohlins.

http://www.pureperformancecycles.com/Brand/Honda/Honda-VFR800/Suspension---Brakes/Ohlins-HO043-Shock-Absorber--02--12-VFR800-FI

Not a bad price but does it only have one damping adjuster? Meaning both compression and rebound are all in one similar to the stock shock?

Hotbrakes

ronimalvfr

Has anybody heard of or done business with this place? Looks like a pretty good deal for an Ohlins.

http://www.pureperformancecycles.com/Brand/Honda/Honda-VFR800/Suspension---Brakes/Ohlins-HO043-Shock-Absorber--02--12-VFR800-FI

Not a bad price but does it only have one damping adjuster? Meaning both compression and rebound are all in one similar to the stock shock?

Its fully adjustable, I don't think the nut you're seeing at the bottom is the adjuster, the adjustment is the two black rings stacked on top of eachother at the stop of the shock.

I think that shock only has rebound external adjustment.

Best to check on the Ohlins web site against the actual part number. EG: HO406

For compression adjustment with Ohlins you normally need the external resevoir.

Phil

NakedViffer

Hotbrakes

ronimalvfr

Has anybody heard of or done business with this place? Looks like a pretty good deal for an Ohlins.

http://www.pureperformancecycles.com/Brand/Honda/Honda-VFR800/Suspension---Brakes/Ohlins-HO043-Shock-Absorber--02--12-VFR800-FI

Not a bad price but does it only have one damping adjuster? Meaning both compression and rebound are all in one similar to the stock shock?

Its fully adjustable, I don't think the nut you're seeing at the bottom is the adjuster, the adjustment is the two black rings stacked on top of eachother at the stop of the shock.

Don't think so...looking at the Ohlins site I don't think the photo is completely accurate...it doesn't show the piggy back reservoir, the rings at the top are the usual preload adjustment. The little black rings at the bottom you can barely see are the rebound damping adjuster. Compression damping adjustment in on the piggyback reservoir. The Ohlins site says that model has one...it's also supposed to have a length adjustment.

http://www.ohlins.com/Our-products-new/Motorcycle/Products/Hypersport/HO-406/

Click on the text just to the right of "Type" to get the info

Wonder how much trouble it is to mount on a 6th gen with the piggyback reservoir?

Do you see that split black ring with the notches at the TOP of the shock?

I guess, from what I can remember, that may be the rebound on the bottom, and the compression is the black knob, I don't think its actually split.

Interesting... Looks to be lots of adustability for $650 bucks...

pretty sure that shock has rebound adjustment only. that's the black ring/knob at the bottom of the picture.

this is ollins most basic shock.

that's a little plug at the top were the remote hose would go.

BR

Sent from my SCH-I405 using Tapatalk 2

I don't know, I guess I'm just trying to make myself feel better. I buy and sell quite a bit, and I sold one of the base models like that years ago and I listed it as being fully adjustable. I didn't even know what it was for..

The last one I sold, man I wish I coulda made it fit the VFR, picked it up at the flea market for $50, it was in a box of extension cords and the spring coils blended in. That one ended up being for a 99-07 Busa and it was their top of the line model, and MINT.

That shock has the same adjustability as the stock shock... preload and rebound. Fullstop.

Also you'll have to forgive me for being backwards about top and bottom, I've been doing automotive suspension way longer, and its never upside down.

05 VFR. This question probably has been answered already, but I weigh around 270lbs and losing weight, thank God! But with my leather, I am closer to 290 right now. Could a CBR1100XX shock work for my lardassness? What spring should I use with it or would a spring heavy enough for me be too strong for the shock? Should I just buy some thousand pound Harley full dress tractor? :blink:

Lint

05 VFR. This question probably has been answered already, but I weigh around 270lbs and losing weight, thank God! But with my leather, I am closer to 290 right now. Could a CBR1100XX shock work for my lardassness? What spring should I use with it or would a spring heavy enough for me be too strong for the shock? Should I just buy some thousand pound Harley full dress tractor? :blink:

You might as well upgrade the standard shock, and then get a better spring, tailored to your weight. Just getting the XX shock will do little, but it might be a small step up from the standard VFR shock.

Lint

Should I just buy some thousand pound Harley full dress tractor? :blink:

That is a definite option, but then I would have to point and laugh.

I went the spring/revalve for my weight route via Daugherty Motorsports. It was $395 for shock, spring, revalve, and mount adapter.

91talon

Lint

05 VFR. This question probably has been answered already, but I weigh around 270lbs and losing weight, thank God! But with my leather, I am closer to 290 right now. Could a CBR1100XX shock work for my lardassness? What spring should I use with it or would a spring heavy enough for me be too strong for the shock? Should I just buy some thousand pound Harley full dress tractor? :blink:

You might as well upgrade the standard shock, and then get a better spring, tailored to your weight. Just getting the XX shock will do little, but it might be a small step up from the standard VFR shock.

The CBR1100XX is no better than the VFR800. Nothing to be had there!

JamieDaugherty

91talon

Lint

05 VFR. This question probably has been answered already, but I weigh around 270lbs and losing weight, thank God! But with my leather, I am closer to 290 right now. Could a CBR1100XX shock work for my lardassness? What spring should I use with it or would a spring heavy enough for me be too strong for the shock? Should I just buy some thousand pound Harley full dress tractor? :blink:

You might as well upgrade the standard shock, and then get a better spring, tailored to your weight. Just getting the XX shock will do little, but it might be a small step up from the standard VFR shock.

The CBR1100XX is no better than the VFR800. Nothing to be had there!

I'm talking from merely a higher rated spring than the VFR point of view. Not everyone has nearly $400 to throw at the suspension, and you can pick up a XX shock for less than $50.

If you HAD to go cheap on the quick, it is a viable option for people over 200 lbs.

91talon

JamieDaugherty

91talon

Lint

05 VFR. This question probably has been answered already, but I weigh around 270lbs and losing weight, thank God! But with my leather, I am closer to 290 right now. Could a CBR1100XX shock work for my lardassness? What spring should I use with it or would a spring heavy enough for me be too strong for the shock? Should I just buy some thousand pound Harley full dress tractor? :blink:

You might as well upgrade the standard shock, and then get a better spring, tailored to your weight. Just getting the XX shock will do little, but it might be a small step up from the standard VFR shock.

The CBR1100XX is no better than the VFR800. Nothing to be had there!

I'm talking from merely a higher rated spring than the VFR point of view. Not everyone has nearly $400 to throw at the suspension, and you can pick up a XX shock for less than $50.

If you HAD to go cheap on the quick, it is a viable option for people over 200 lbs.

The 929 is a much better option. Has external reservoir, fully adjustable, same srping rate as the VFR too. You throw a spring on one of those for $80-$100 and you might have $20-$30 in the spring.

91talon

JamieDaughertyThe CBR1100XX is no better than the VFR800. Nothing to be had there!

I'm talking from merely a higher rated spring than the VFR point of view. Not everyone has nearly $400 to throw at the suspension, and you can pick up a XX shock for less than $50.

If you HAD to go cheap on the quick, it is a viable option for people over 200 lbs.

This is true, but it is still WAY low for the VFR. The spring on a CBR1100XX shock is good for a 65lb rider, so if my 10 year old daughter was riding the bike it would be ok.

NakedViffer

The 929 is a much better option. Has external reservoir, fully adjustable, same srping rate as the VFR too. You throw a spring on one of those for $80-$100 and you might have $20-$30 in the spring.

Same goes here too. The stock spring on the CBR929 shock is the same as the VFR800, the problem is an ideal rider for that spring is 12lb. None of my kids are that small anymore so I won't even make a correlation for that! :biggrin:

Ive been looking around trying to figure out a new shock, as my OEM has 85,000+kms on it and I'm sure its close to needing a rebuild or replacement. Problem is I almost think I need two shocks.... :(

One for everyday riding and one to swap in when the wife and I go touring. And no I'm not calling my wife fat, with gear I'm sure she barely breaks 135lbs.

Normally I run the preload up around 75% of max, for my everyday riding. Install all 3 bags and loaded up for a 3 or 4 day trip and have the wife jump on, I've gone from a daily load of 200lbs to almost double. Even with the preload at max, the front end is light and when it gets dark the head lights blind the guys up on the ISS....

The wife and I have been toying with the idea of me riding the bike out west sometime in the summer of 2014 and she'll fly to Calgary. Then spending a few weeks touring Banff in to BC. So current setup isn't going to cut it.

Is it posable to just swap out to a heavier spring when needed or is it just simpler have a second shock?

I've been toying with the idea of getting a Uni-go trailer, but that's $3000 for something I may only use once or twice a year.

91talon

JamieDaugherty

91talon

Lint

05 VFR. This question probably has been answered already, but I weigh around 270lbs and losing weight, thank God! But with my leather, I am closer to 290 right now. Could a CBR1100XX shock work for my lardassness? What spring should I use with it or would a spring heavy enough for me be too strong for the shock? Should I just buy some thousand pound Harley full dress tractor? :blink:

You might as well upgrade the standard shock, and then get a better spring, tailored to your weight. Just getting the XX shock will do little, but it might be a small step up from the standard VFR shock.

The CBR1100XX is no better than the VFR800. Nothing to be had there!

I'm talking from merely a higher rated spring than the VFR point of view. Not everyone has nearly $400 to throw at the suspension, and you can pick up a XX shock for less than $50.

If you HAD to go cheap on the quick, it is a viable option for people over 200 lbs.

Yes, the XX shock would be a slight improvement over the VFR shock only because of the slightly higher spring rate (16.9 vs 15.3). But as JD says, heavier riders should have a much stiffer spring rate.

Ideal would be something over 23kg for you.

BR

this is the link to British made nitron shock...used on many tt race bikes. http://www.nitron.co.uk click on store for full range of motorcycle products.

After a good long ride yesterday, the JD 929 shock lost its damping abilities after sitting in traffic on the interstate. I expected this due to the proximity of the motor to the shock reservoir but did not have a long enough screwdriver to tighten up the comp/reb adjusters mid ride. I know they are just a hair tighter than halfway in the adjustment range. Otherwise the shock feels great.

I also refreshed the fork oil with 500cc's in each of OEM 10wt. Reinstalled the forks and raised the front up a bit more, Genmar bar riser spacers prevent it from going too high, but the steering felt much better. The combined suspension improvements yielded much more confidence and feel (til the shock got hot) and I was cranking down some local backroads at the same pace I would normally only do on the Super Duke.

Advance Auto sells aluminized cloth material and I may secure it around the top of the shock to better insulate it from the engine and exhaust. Unfortunately during the failed install of the shock with reservoir on the right I removed quite a bit of the shielding from around the headers. In conjunction with that and the reservoir being on the left and almost touching the valve cover, prolonged sitting with engine temps above 200 degrees seems to affect the damping performance.

I'm no suspension expert by any means, but I know when a bike feels right and have the race results and laptimes to prove it.

NorthernVFRDave

Ive been looking around trying to figure out a new shock, as my OEM has 85,000+kms on it and I'm sure its close to needing a rebuild or replacement. Problem is I almost think I need two shocks.... :(

One for everyday riding and one to swap in when the wife and I go touring. And no I'm not calling my wife fat, with gear I'm sure she barely breaks 135lbs.

Normally I run the preload up around 75% of max, for my everyday riding. Install all 3 bags and loaded up for a 3 or 4 day trip and have the wife jump on, I've gone from a daily load of 200lbs to almost double. Even with the preload at max, the front end is light and when it gets dark the head lights blind the guys up on the ISS....

The wife and I have been toying with the idea of me riding the bike out west sometime in the summer of 2014 and she'll fly to Calgary. Then spending a few weeks touring Banff in to BC. So current setup isn't going to cut it.

Is it posable to just swap out to a heavier spring when needed or is it just simpler have a second shock?

I've been toying with the idea of getting a Uni-go trailer, but that's $3000 for something I may only use once or twice a year.

I don't like to get caught up in the suspension suggestion box.....because I have tried allot of options & know for a fact one option is a guarantee of satisfaction the other options are like wearing shoes with holes, they work but have a limited usefulness (but they did save you money). You won't need 2 shocks if you have one shock that can do the job, because you have been used to the crap OEM shock which has the dampening quality of a tee shirt on a girl running with DD's is why you feel you may need 2 shocks. A quality AFTERMARKET shock like Ohlins/Penske/etc with remote compression will do wonders for your application. You may need to compromise just a little on the spring rate but only on the optimal rate for solo riding it's not like your going to need a truck spring. The reason I say this is that MAGICAL process you get that works properly with a remote res, compression with the piston & o-ring design, not the hit & miss bladder design OEM shocks like a 929. Compression is a wonderful thing when you start to load your bike over the fitted spring rate, compression resists shock compression & it is amazing how well it works just increasing the compression rate a few clicks to handle the extra load.

:bliss: :laughing6-hehe:

zRoYz

because you have been used to the crap OEM shock which has the dampening quality of a tee shirt on a girl running with DD's is why you feel you may need 2 shocks.

That was so awesome, I had to add it to my signature!

91talon

:bliss: :laughing6-hehe:

zRoYz

because you have been used to the crap OEM shock which has the dampening quality of a tee shirt on a girl running with DD's is why you feel you may need 2 shocks.

That was so awesome, I had to add it to my signature!

It brought back memories of the girl in the STP commercial back in the 70's for me. Those were the days.

I've read through this thread and it has been super-helpful. Thanks to everyone for the help but I have a specific question someone might be able to answer.

I'm setting up my 2002 VFR (non-ABS) for touring next year. I'm going to invest in a rear shock and probably new front springs. For now, I'll keep the questions to the rear shock only. I've talked to Daugherty and given the fact that I'm a big guy (210 lbs.) and my wife is pretty big as well (170 lbs? she won't tell), the stock shock is woefully undersprung. So, I have two options from Daugherty:

1. Go with a Daugherty F4 unit. I really dislike the lack of remote preload adjustment, as I will have the bike quite loaded in "full tour" mode but don't want the preload set so high as a daily solo driver.

2. This is my preferred option. Find an ABS shock and have Daugherty revalve/spring the unit. The problem is that I CANNOT FIND AN ABS SHOCK. It's maddening... Been checking eBay regularly for nearly a month with no results.

Has anyone here had Daugherty revalve/spring an ABS shock? And where in bloody hell did you find that ABS shock?

rocketpig

I've read through this thread and it has been super-helpful. Thanks to everyone for the help but I have a specific question someone might be able to answer.

I'm setting up my 2002 VFR (non-ABS) for touring next year. I'm going to invest in a rear shock and probably new front springs. For now, I'll keep the questions to the rear shock only. I've talked to Daugherty and given the fact that I'm a big guy (210 lbs.) and my wife is pretty big as well (170 lbs? she won't tell), the stock shock is woefully undersprung. So, I have two options from Daugherty:

1. Go with a Daugherty F4 unit. I really dislike the lack of remote preload adjustment, as I will have the bike quite loaded in "full tour" mode but don't want the preload set so high as a daily solo driver.

2. This is my preferred option. Find an ABS shock and have Daugherty revalve/spring the unit. The problem is that I CANNOT FIND AN ABS SHOCK. It's maddening... Been checking eBay regularly for nearly a month with no results.

Has anyone here had Daugherty revalve/spring an ABS shock? And where in bloody hell did you find that ABS shock?

I did and I found it on eBay and I had Jamie rebuild it for me. For some reason with VFR parts, I've been lucky, not so much on finding the right deal on parts for my '95 Duc though! The place that was auctioning the shock was a salvage yard who specialized in MC parts. You may see if there's a local salvage yard and check with them. There's one by my house that I can check with for you, but the last few times I checked with them for VFR parts they didn't have much.

Duc2V4

I did and I found it on eBay and I had Jamie rebuild it for me. For some reason with VFR parts, I've been lucky, not so much on finding the right deal on parts for my '95 Duc though! The place that was auctioning the shock was a salvage yard who specialized in MC parts. You may see if there's a local salvage yard and check with them. There's one by my house that I can check with for you, but the last few times I checked with them for VFR parts they didn't have much.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

So I assume that the shock you purchased came with the preload adjuster? There have been a couple of shocks on eBay that appear that they *might* be the ABS shock but didn't have the preload adjuster attached to them and looking at the Honda part listings for the shock, you cannot buy the remote adjuster separately from the shock itself. Meh. :P

rocketpig

Duc2V4

I did and I found it on eBay and I had Jamie rebuild it for me. For some reason with VFR parts, I've been lucky, not so much on finding the right deal on parts for my '95 Duc though! The place that was auctioning the shock was a salvage yard who specialized in MC parts. You may see if there's a local salvage yard and check with them. There's one by my house that I can check with for you, but the last few times I checked with them for VFR parts they didn't have much.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

So I assume that the shock you purchased came with the preload adjuster? There have been a couple of shocks on eBay that appear that they *might* be the ABS shock but didn't have the preload adjuster attached to them and looking at the Honda part listings for the shock, you cannot buy the remote adjuster separately from the shock itself. Meh. :P

Yes, the shock has the remote preload adjuster attached. Kind of looks like a remote reservoir on some of the higher end shocks. The one I bought also had the mounting bracket for the knob, all I had to do was buy some bolts and tap the holes that are on the backside of the passenger peg brackets, as these are not threaded on the non-ABS models (at least mine were not). If I find anything at the salvage yard, I'll PM you.

I just finished altering a stock 2007 VTEC ABS shock with a 1092-69/170 (971 lb) Ohlins spring. I believe it is a tad longer than the OEM spring so comes with more preload.

rocketpig

Duc2V4

I did and I found it on eBay and I had Jamie rebuild it for me. For some reason with VFR parts, I've been lucky, not so much on finding the right deal on parts for my '95 Duc though! The place that was auctioning the shock was a salvage yard who specialized in MC parts. You may see if there's a local salvage yard and check with them. There's one by my house that I can check with for you, but the last few times I checked with them for VFR parts they didn't have much.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

So I assume that the shock you purchased came with the preload adjuster? There have been a couple of shocks on eBay that appear that they *might* be the ABS shock but didn't have the preload adjuster attached to them and looking at the Honda part listings for the shock, you cannot buy the remote adjuster separately from the shock itself. Meh. :P

I went by the salvage place today and sorry to say no ABS shock. I'll keep an eye out locally as well, hopefully one will pop up.

Good luck! The 6th Gen shock is crap, so any improvement is going to make a difference.

Duc, loving my new 748. What a scalpel!

Yeah, I'm quickly finding out just how awful the shock and forks are on this bike. A real disappointment but one that can be remedied if I find an ABS shock.

And if I can't find an ABS shock by mid-winter, I'm probably going to just go with an F4 unit from Daugherty.

rocketpig

Yeah, I'm quickly finding out just how awful the shock and forks are on this bike. A real disappointment but one that can be remedied if I find an ABS shock.

And if I can't find an ABS shock by mid-winter, I'm probably going to just go with an F4 unit from Daugherty.

A guy on advrider offered me his abs shock in the states

Sent from my Stream using Tapatalk 2

A friend of mine is the managing partner of Motorcycle Service Centers in Camarillo, Ca. He is a new distributor of Nitron shocks. Each built custom to your needs. Kinda spendy, but they will be exactly what you are looking for, fully adjustable too.

is their an easy to follow pictorial guide for installing the rear shock, im going to do it my self, with a wilbers 641 i brought customised for my weight and panniers and top box

StormShadow

is their an easy to follow pictorial guide for installing the rear shock, im going to do it my self, with a wilbers 641 i brought customised for my weight and panniers and top box

There is a guide for a 5th gen:

http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.php/topic/6970-how-to-install-an-ohlins-shock/

I don't believe there is a significant difference between 5th and 6th gen for the shock, but I'm not 100% certain of that.

ggathagan

StormShadow

is their an easy to follow pictorial guide for installing the rear shock, im going to do it my self, with a wilbers 641 i brought customised for my weight and panniers and top box

There is a guide for a 5th gen:

http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.php/topic/6970-how-to-install-an-ohlins-shock/

I don't believe there is a significant difference between 5th and 6th gen for the shock, but I'm not 100% certain of that.

If I recall, there really isn't much different between the two except maybe access to the top shock bolt, but I did find it easier to remove and replace the 6 Gen vs. 5 Gen. Also, although it would make the shock replacement easier to remove the headers like in the tutorial above, I was able to R/R both the 5 and 6 Gen shocks without doing so. This does require moving the swing arm up and down for easier/better access to get the shock in where it needs to go, in this case a helper would make it an easier job, but if you have a scissor jack like the one in the tutorial, that should work too.

Duc2V4

ggathagan

StormShadow

is their an easy to follow pictorial guide for installing the rear shock, im going to do it my self, with a wilbers 641 i brought customised for my weight and panniers and top box

There is a guide for a 5th gen:

http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.php/topic/6970-how-to-install-an-ohlins-shock/

I don't believe there is a significant difference between 5th and 6th gen for the shock, but I'm not 100% certain of that.

If I recall, there really isn't much different between the two except maybe access to the top shock bolt, but I did find it easier to remove and replace the 6 Gen vs. 5 Gen. Also, although it would make the shock replacement easier to remove the headers like in the tutorial above, I was able to R/R both the 5 and 6 Gen shocks without doing so. This does require moving the swing arm up and down for easier/better access to get the shock in where it needs to go, in this case a helper would make it an easier job, but if you have a scissor jack like the one in the tutorial, that should work too.

Yeah, only real difference is length where the 5th gen is close to 1/2" longer. :cool:

Perfect. I've got sandy catless headers I have to modify to make fit so do em both together at my cousins factory.

Sent from my Stream using Tapatalk 2

StormShadow

is their an easy to follow pictorial guide for installing the rear shock, im going to do it my self, with a wilbers 641 i brought customised for my weight and panniers and top box

There should be one somewhere here!

Be sure to pull the rear wheel and use a jack to move the SSSA up and down as needed thru the shock replacement process. If i remember correctly you jack up the swingarm all the way to pull the shock out.

Enjoy and good luck.

BR

question, when i remove the shock, will the ducktail drop down?

When you un-bolt the rear shock and remove the bottom shock link then you can lower the jack and take out the shock ..

StormShadow

question, when i remove the shock, will the ducktail drop down?

No. The duck tail is attached to the sub-frame, so as long as you do not loosen or remove the sub-frame bolts, the duck tail will stay put. However, once you get the shock bolts removed the swing arm will drop, so be prepared and use a scissor jack or other support device. I had a few different length 2x4s that I keep for just such an occasion. I think the next time I do a fork and/or shock replacement I'll have my wife or helper take photos, I would love to take pics of when I'm doing work, but it slows down the process and greasy hands/gloves and cameras are not the best mix.

That makes me feel better.

Thouggt of time lapse?

Sent from my Stream using Tapatalk 2

Hi!

I own a 2002 VFR and I'm planning to do some maintenance regarding the shocks. I was thinking of changing the rear shock for F4/F4i shock. I'm 5'9" (175cm) and 165 lbs (75kg).

So what I'm asking:

1) I read the F4/F4i shock is 11mm shorter. Can I install it without a spacer and compensate it by lowering the front? I would really appreciate even a little reduction in the height.

2) Since I'm not that heavy, will the shock need a stiffer spring?

I appreciate any tips :)

Best Regards,

Hasse

Hi HzE, welcome! :cheerleader:

If you use the F4/F4i shock w/o a spacer the rear end will be dropped 30-40mm because of the ratio factor(something in the 3-4 to 1 range) and your not that short. Yes if you would then drop the front end a similar amount you could maintain most of the bikes balance, but again don't think you want to lower the entire bike over an inch. :unsure:

Spring wise, the stock vfr spring is too soft(15.3kg) and the F4/F4i is softer (around 14kg). I suggest you at least change out the upper mount bolt to a longer one (caution a standard bolt head will hit shock w/o grinding or using a flat head bolt) and at least add washers to gain the length needed. Install a 17-18 kg rear and .85 - .90 kg front springs. I think you can control the stiffer spring with the adjustable damping of the F4 shock, ideal no but worth trying on a tight budget.

BR

Thanks for the quick answer and detailed answer! :happy:

I probably need to dig up a bit more to see which are the other viable options if I don't want to go high with the budget. The lady is getting old so I wouldn't want to put too much money in her but it could be that the biggest obstacle here in Finland might be availability. I can find some F4/F4i -shocks but certain others might be more difficult to find. And yes, atm. the height is pretty okay for me. I can get my heels to the ground but very barely, so even 10mm would help me. I blame my parents for the short genes :goofy:

I've been going through some aftermarket options as well. Of course the choices here in the other side of the ocean are a bit different but maybe someone could share opinions regarding some shocks?

-Wilbers 630/641

-630 (adjustable preload and rebound damping, no remote reservoir)

-641 (remote reservoir + high/low compression dampening)

-Öhlins HO 043/203/605

-HO 043 (adjustable preload and rebound damping, no remote reservoir)

-HO 203 (same as HO 043 but with a hose mounted hydraulic spring preload adjuster)

-HO 605 (with remote reservoir, cooks, slices, irons)

As I'm pretty much a newbie with shock absorbers and (yet?) I do no track days, does it make any sense to go for something with more adjustments? Would you suggest having something with a remote reservoir?

At least I found some online store selling HO 043 + front springs + oil with ~ 800$. That alone doesn't sound such a big investment on safety :)

Any idea what is the spring rate for stock VFR800 VTEC fork spring rate?Progressive or linear?

I got an offer on Wilbers 641 + front springs (including shipment) with ~860$

Should I go for this or is Öhlins the only good choice? :unsure:

AlanOon

Any idea what is the spring rate for stock VFR800 VTEC fork spring rate?Progressive or linear?

All 800's seem to be fitted with .744 kg fork springs.

^^^^ And way to soft , I ran .90kg's front springs and they flatten out on me. Gonna get in contact with Jamie move up to .95kg's

HzE

I got an offer on Wilbers 641 + front springs (including shipment) with ~860$

Should I go for this or is Öhlins the only good choice? :unsure:

Out of the box, Ohlins shocks need some work to perform best. They are mass produced just like the OEM Showa units - and suffer because of it. For sure they perform better than the OEM shock, but do not be fooled into thinking you are buying the best - in fact that is far from the truth. If you consider an Ohlins probably best to consider sending it off to get the correct spring rate and valving package installed. FYI!

Switchblade

^^^^ And way to soft , I ran .90kg's front springs and they flatten out on me. Gonna get in contact with Jamie move up to .95kg's

David, did you ever make this change?

Baileyrock

Switchblade

^^^^ And way to soft , I ran .90kg's front springs and they flatten out on me. Gonna get in contact with Jamie move up to .95kg's

David, did you ever make this change?

No Kevin planning doing it as a winter mod. Also need to email Jamie about it. When I first install the forks and the rear shock the combo was awesome. That was middle February and by the middle of October both front forks and the rear shock were flat and adjusted to max.

Unless the hose to the adjuster is cut / removed, R/R'ing the rear shock on a 6th gen ABS is a royal PITA. Turns what should be a short job in to an all day project. I had Jamie rebuild my ABS shock, but I could see why some wouldn't. Well worth it though!

Cogswell

Unless the hose to the adjuster is cut / removed, R/R'ing the rear shock on a 6th gen ABS is a royal PITA. Turns what should be a short job in to an all day project. I had Jamie rebuild my ABS shock, but I could see why some wouldn't. Well worth it though!

I reviewed the post and yeah I am dreading it .

OHLINS OR ELKA WHAT TO BUY?

I have no experience or knowledge of ELKA myself, I've always used Penske and Ohlins on my bikes.

We did have a ELKA group buy years back, the shocks seems very nice from member comments but they (ELKA) had no clue on proper spring rates. If I remember correctly most were shipped with the stock 850lb spring on them.

For some reson the suspension industry was littered with faulty spring rate calculators for VFR rears!!!

JD was using a bad one as well, but after some discussion he modified his calculator years ago and offers his customers much more accurate rear spring rates as a result.

JD?

Kenn

JD?

Jamie Daugherty, www.daughertymotorsports.com he's also a member here on the forum.

Kenn

JD?

http://www.daughertymotorsports.com/

I have ELKA's on both bikes and really like them ,spring rates seemed to be very good for me anyway .They are easy to set up and seem to work well right out of the box ,

A good friend gave me a rear 99f4 shock. Im somewhere between 140-145lbs without gear. This is mainly used for high speed track and Im wondering what the correct spring I need for track use and if it needs to be revalved? Also would swapping the vtec spring onto the f4 shock be ok?

klrtovfr

A good friend gave me a rear 99f4 shock. Im somewhere between 140-145lbs without gear. This is mainly used for high speed track and Im wondering what the correct spring I need for track use and if it needs to be revalved? Also would swapping the vtec spring onto the f4 shock be ok?

Pretty sure the F4 Shock had a 14kg spring where the VFR has a 15.3kg Spring. If the VFR spring will fit I would install it.

Have you or do you plan on any fork work?

I have read a little on this post though I'm still unsure about what spring rate / shock I should use.

So any shock / coil to person weight guru's please chime in and share your thoughts.

I am 115kg ( 253 pound) my VFR800 2003 is all stock , I have a shock from a CBR1100XX black bird .... Will the black bird shock be ok to use ??

I am 6ft tall and my riding skills are ok ,I don't race on the tracks though I don't mind throwing it into some bends when the path is clear.

What's people's thoughts

Kris78

I have read a little on this post though I'm still unsure about what spring rate / shock I should use.

So any shock / coil to person weight guru's please chime in and share your thoughts.

I am 115kg ( 253 pound) my VFR800 2003 is all stock , I have a shock from a CBR1100XX black bird .... Will the black bird shock be ok to use ??

I am 6ft tall and my riding skills are ok ,I don't race on the tracks though I don't mind throwing it into some bends when the path is clear.

What's people's thoughts

Kris,

The XX shock would be an improvement over stock as it's got a 16.9 kg spring if I remember correctly, BUT at your weight if you were to set up the bike properly something in the range of 22-24 KG and at least 1.1kg fork springs would be in the ball park.

I think the XX shock is slightly longer then the 6th gen shock as well, so for starters I would slap it in the bike and set sag as best as you can and it would be an improvement over stock, but not the same as setting it up for your weight. Sounds like your not a ripper, so the XX shock would be an improvement over stock.

BR

Yeah the XX shock is a little longer than stock VFR.

Hmm ok something more to look into for setting up suspension.

Thank you for the reply and more onsite to suspension.

Kris78

Yeah the XX shock is a little longer than stock VFR.

Hmm ok something more to look into for setting up suspension.

Thank you for the reply and more onsite to suspension.

That extra length won't hurt and will actually quicken the steering some.

Search rear shock change out and slap that XX in there. Might take an hour and you can always go back if you don't like it for some reason.

BR

Do you guys know of a dummies guide for setting up suspension, this is my 2nd bike, 1st sporty bike, and I have no clue. I just know that the adjustability of the stock shocks are limited. I've literally been riding it as I bought it.

joemaniaci

Do you guys know of a dummies guide for setting up suspension, this is my 2nd bike, 1st sporty bike, and I have no clue. I just know that the adjustability of the stock shocks are limited. I've literally been riding it as I bought it.

Youtube has lots of videos on suspension set up that should help you.

joemaniaci

Do you guys know of a dummies guide for setting up suspension, this is my 2nd bike, 1st sporty bike, and I have no clue. I just know that the adjustability of the stock shocks are limited. I've literally been riding it as I bought it.

http://www.vfrdiscussion.com/forum/index.php/files/file/231-racetech-suspension-bible/

Not only setting up suspension ,changing the rear shock ... Is it a hard job and what sort of time frame to do this job ?

Kris78

Not only setting up suspension ,changing the rear shock ... Is it a hard job and what sort of time frame to do this job ?

I helped fellow member Duccmann replace his shock and I want to say it took us a little more than 2 hours, maybe a little more. That being said, I have done this before and was familiar with the process. Doing it solo and not having done it before could take the better part of an afternoon. The key is to remove the suspension components at the bottom of the shock (triangles and dog bone), remove the rear wheel and have a jack or blocks so the you can raise and lower the swingarm. The latter is crucial when trying to get the shock removed and installed.

THANK GOD FOR FRIENDS WITH TOOLS AND THE KNOW HOW. OH AND IPA

duccmann, 3/30/2016 at 10:29 PM

THANK GOD FOR FRIENDS WITH TOOLS AND THE KNOW HOW. OH AND IPA

You had me at "friends with Beer"  :beer:

37 minutes ago, Saoirse

What would I need to do to make a blackbirds shock fit in a 5th gen?

You'll need to shim the top mount about 6 mm (319 -> 325 mm) to compensate for the length difference.

Other than that, it should bolt on with no issues. 

The Bird's shock also has a slightly shorter stroke so you'll lose a bit of wheel travel but it's travel you don't use under 99% of riding circumstances so no big deal IMO.

3 hours ago, Saoirse

I suppose that could just be done by adding washers to the top bolt?

Correct. I'm not 100% sure I recall correctly but I think the stock top bolt is long enough for 6 mm.

Saoirse, 11/25/2016 at 11:52 PM

Well I decided to brave the cold and it's not too bad once you're working!!  have the old shock out, took me about an hour, what held me back was the bolt at the back of the engine for that pivot arm, this job would be a lot easier if the exhaust header pipes weren't in the way!!

anyway I managed to wrestle it out,old bolts are very dry so I'll coat them with some heavy duty grease,

so now I'm going to throw a few washers on top of the blackbirds shock bolt and try and put her all back together, I was always better at taking things apart though :goofy:

[image: 005.jpg]

[image: 006.jpg]

I recognise that shock! :wink:

Hi All

Does anyone know if a VFR1200 2011 rear shock fit into a 6 gen 2004 800

Thanks in advance

44 minutes ago, Misterbish

Hi All

Does anyone know if a VFR1200 2011 rear shock fit into a 6 gen 2004 800

Thanks in advance

They are not identical but close enough that the 1200 should be usable. 

The mounting points are compatible, AFAIK.

Here's the data from Öhlins for the 6th Gen:

[image: Screenshot_2017-06-01-16-44-15.jpg.e29e208ac3bae1a5ae109c3343468154.jpg]

And for the 1200:

[image: Screenshot_2017-06-01-16-45-33.jpg.5d67a9c648998b69cd54371a3794cf03.jpg]

- Longer OAL will raise the back about 1/2".

- Shorter stroke might reduce wheel travel a bit but I don't see that as a real issue.

- Slightly heavier spring which is a boon unless you are a horse jockey. 

Hi Many thanks for the quick reply, i just took delivery of a Blackbird rear shock and was wandering if i should of gone down the VFR1200 route, basically because its off a newer bike and should have less miles on it, also im sure i read somewhere that the spring is stiffer than the Blackbird.

Thanks for confirming the fitment.

3 minutes ago, Misterbish

Thanks for confirming the fitment.

You are welcome. 

One thing that might give you grief, though is the remote preload hose and knob. I'm not positive that they are routed to the same side and of similar lengths. 

The Bird's shock is a confirmed OK fit on the 6th Gen.

Hi

Yeh i did wander about the remote preload, i found the info with the Blackbird rear shock off this site, here's hoping it will be an improvement in the handling being 2 up with luggage(very light front end), if not i will source a VFR1200 rear shock and try that, for some reason VFR1200 shocks can be had for a lot cheaper than a half decent Blackbird shock.

Anyone know what a used Ohlins is worth?

2 hours ago, Alaskan

Anyone know what a used Ohlins is worth?

I'd say it depends on what model and how good a shape it's in...

Let’s get this old thread restarted! So Jaime has a new shock he’s touting as his flagship line of shocks. The BD40 line of shocks. Has anyone tried the new shock yet? I’m also confused as to which fork upgrade the Vtec has available from DMR Suspensions. Do you select cartridge forks or damping rod forks? I guess I’ll have to call Jamie to find out. I’ll let you guys know.

The 6th gen has cartridge forks, they just lack some external adjustments that are available on flagship models. I believe the intent of Jamie's cartridge upgrade is to have a drop-in cartridge that he will custom valve for you. I can tell you from experience that between custom shim stacks, modifying valving and myriad oil options, fork valving is a complicated subject!

I can't speak to Jamie's own shocks, but based on the magic he worked on the shock he revalved for me, I'm sure they're excellent.

10 hours ago, wiremanjon

Let’s get this old thread restarted! So Jaime has a new shock he’s touting as his flagship line of shocks. The BD40 line of shocks. Has anyone tried the new shock yet? I’m also confused as to which fork upgrade the Vtec has available from DMR Suspensions. Do you select cartridge forks or damping rod forks? I guess I’ll have to call Jamie to find out. I’ll let you guys know.

I installed Jamie's BD40 rear shock and BD20 fork cartridge kit on my 5th Gen this season. They are amazing, completely transforms the bike and the fit and finish is top notch.

More here - 

I haven’t pulled the trigger yet but I have asked Jaimie some similar newbie questions and he has answered them quickly and very thoroughly! I’m just waiting for my money to catch up with my desires and I’ll be doing the full bd40/20 setup on my 6G.

e.

I sent Jamie my forks for him to install his kit and also got one of his rebuilt CBR shocks... worth every penny, and he was great to deal with and for any support after the fact.  Also no issues shipping from Canada to him and back.  I'd do it again and I'd have full confidence in buying his new product.

adkfinn, 7/22/2019 at 7:21 AM

I installed Jamie's BD40 rear shock and BD20 fork cartridge kit on my 5th Gen this season. They are amazing, completely transforms the bike and the fit and finish is top notch.

More here - 

Sorry to revive and old thread but I want to do the same for my 01 for the twistys and my 02 for 2 up riding.

Do you mind sharing how much this set you back?  I know there are many options like having Jamie rework a rear from a different model (929 seems to be the go to, but Blackbird as well?).

Cheers!

6 hours ago, Jelorian

Sorry to revive and old thread but I want to do the same for my 01 for the twistys and my 02 for 2 up riding.

Do you mind sharing how much this set you back?  I know there are many options like having Jamie rework a rear from a different model (929 seems to be the go to, but Blackbird as well?).

Cheers!

It was $1,220 for the whole shebang (I find it to be very worth it). The rear BD40 was $675 at the time, but it was a release special. Jamie's current pricing is here: http://daughertymotorsports.com/honda/

Feel free to email him with questions - I've always found him to be responsive and supportive.

9 hours ago, adkfinn

It was $1,220 for the whole shebang (I find it to be very worth it). The rear BD40 was $675 at the time, but it was a release special. Jamie's current pricing is here: http://daughertymotorsports.com/honda/

Feel free to email him with questions - I've always found him to be responsive and supportive.

I had long conversation with Jamie today.  Good guy for sure.  I was debating the F4i front end conversion but decided I wanted to keep things mostly stock.

I will most likely do the new BD series on my 01 and the revalve/spring and rework the rear on the 02.

He gave me a ballpark figure of $1300 for the BD solution for my 01 and $650 for the 02.

Aside from the suspension bits from Jamie Daugherty, what else is out there?  Obiously if money were no object I could go Ohlins but I hear Racetech springs are an option as well?  While I'm already leaning in Jamie's direction I also want to do my due diligence and make sure I'm making a good investment.

55 minutes ago, Jelorian

Aside from the suspension bits from Jamie Daugherty, what else is out there?  Obiously if money were no object I could go Ohlins but I hear Racetech springs are an option as well?  While I'm already leaning in Jamie's direction I also want to do my due diligence and make sure I'm making a good investment.

As I understand it you purchased a VFR. A week later you again purchased a VFR. You're committed. Just make sure that suspension fits your weight and riding style. Jamie or Ohlins, can't go wrong.

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3 hours ago, St. Stephen

As I understand it you purchased a VFR. A week later you again purchased a VFR. You're committed. Just make sure that suspension fits your weight and riding style. Jamie or Ohlins, can't go wrong.

Indeed I did.  Actually I purchased them 4 days apart! LOL!  While I am a firm believer that suspension is one of the most important things to be addressed, I still want to get the best bang for the buck.  I am sure that spending $1300 with Jamie on his new BD product will get me one of the better setups as far as suspension, I also need to realize that $1300 is more than 1/3rd the total cost of the motorcycle.  With Ohlins even more.  I know I can't go wrong with either.  I guess it all boils down to what I really want to invest in both bikes.  I will always deal with getting suspension setup correctly before doing any engine or cosmetic mods.

I used racetech fork springs, f4i cartridges and Jamie's rear shock. It took a shit load of head scratching and a lot researching old posts to get the damping right on those cartridges and I feel like I got lucky to get what I did as quickly as I did. The two options as I see it are - spend money, or use a lot of time and maybe get lucky and not spend quite as much money. I wish I could give you better advice, but even the shortcut isn't cheap. 

I have a penski shock that was set up for my bike and weight. I had the valving and or shim stack adjusted by a suspension tuner during at a service a few years ago, and seams to be set up great.

I Had race tech springs and valves and thought it was better then stock, but when I got the adjustable fork inserts built by Jamie a few years ago, for me that made the biggest difference.

Hello, I bought Jamie’s fork cartridge kit and BD-40 shock for my 2006 Abs. I just installed the shock. Scratching my head over how to mount the remote canister. Anyone have any good ideas and pictures? I found one solution by someone, I guess this is my best bet?

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Yep that was my solution and still holding strong years later.

THe only reason i had to chop into the battery tray was that with a passenger on the bike, i found the reservoir [mounted in same location but prior to cutting the battery tray] was pushing on the brake lines.

This solved it.  Yeah i should really invest in some nicer clamps instead of zip ties but when you are standing looking at the bike you barely notice it.

pic from a couple weeks ago

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Jelorian, 6/11/2020 at 10:31 PM

Indeed I did.  Actually I purchased them 4 days apart! LOL!  While I am a firm believer that suspension is one of the most important things to be addressed, I still want to get the best bang for the buck.  I am sure that spending $1300 with Jamie on his new BD product will get me one of the better setups as far as suspension, I also need to realize that $1300 is more than 1/3rd the total cost of the motorcycle.  With Ohlins even more.  I know I can't go wrong with either.  I guess it all boils down to what I really want to invest in both bikes.  I will always deal with getting suspension setup correctly before doing any engine or cosmetic mods.

Check out the classifieds now, I have and Ohlins rear shock and a full set of Race Tech gold valves for your 02 for only $500 plus shipping.

Funny I started this thread way back in 06 and it's still a good one.

I just put a Penske on my 03 last November with RaceTech 1.1 kg springs up front. I have pictures step by step somewhere... I should post them up.

ihilker, 7/18/2020 at 8:35 PM

I just put a Penske on my 03 last November with RaceTech 1.1 kg springs up front. I have pictures step by step somewhere... I should post them up.

You should.

rhoderage, 6/18/2020 at 3:29 AM

Yep that was my solution and still holding strong years later.

THe only reason i had to chop into the battery tray was that with a passenger on the bike, i found the reservoir [mounted in same location but prior to cutting the battery tray] was pushing on the brake lines.

This solved it.  Yeah i should really invest in some nicer clamps instead of zip ties but when you are standing looking at the bike you barely notice it.

pic from a couple weeks ago

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That'll work!  I like the black remote canister, looks sleek

At some point I removed the front zip tie showing in my old pic above.... the other two are relatively 'straight' and are not noticeable

No issues in the 4 years or so that I've had the shock

9 minutes ago, twistednoble

Can anyone speak to the blackbird shock's damping when it's installed a VFR? I've got my eye on one currently.

I've got 34k miles on all stock components. I had to fix a leaking fork seal last weekend and now with new bushings and 10w oil the front end is drastically improved from where it was. The front end eats up undulations and expander gaps.

This had the side effect of making the 34k mile worn shock feel like junk. The front end will float over the bump and then then the rear wheel will go over the same bump and feel like someone kicked me square in the buttocks through the seat.

I wouldn't expect it to be any better than a VFR shock, even with half the miles.  Why would it?  It's pretty much the exact same shock, that wasn't that impressive when new.  Better than something from the 80s?  Of course, but that isn't saying much.  The only thing you'll gain is maybe 5mm in length for some additional ride height.   

An actual improvement doesn't have to break the bank (but it can I know).  Perhaps look at YSS.  I have them on 5 bikes now and they are a great shock and value, which I need when I am upgrading so many bikes.

15 minutes ago, Captain 80s

I wouldn't expect it to be any better than a VFR shock, even with half the miles.  Why would it?  It's pretty much the exact same shock, that wasn't that impressive when new.  Better than something from the 80s?  Of course, but that isn't saying much.  The only thing you'll gain is maybe 5mm in length for some additional ride height.   

An actual improvement doesn't have to break the bank (but it can I know).  Perhaps look at YSS.  I have them on 5 bikes now and they are a great shock and value, which I need when I am upgrading so many bikes.

Thanks for the reply.

I'm pulling for a super budget option at the moment which is why the ebay special BB shock is in the running. If I had the money I'd ship the stock shock off to Jamie and have him fix it up for me. Unfortunately the VFR is pulling commuting duty so extended downtime while the shock is getting worked on for a week or two isn't in the cards. It looks like the YSS is in about the same price bracket too.

Maybe I'll get a BB shock and set it in the vice and see what the stack looks like. At least then I can swap back and forth between the two and still be able to ride to work on Monday. If it's really underwhelming it'll still give me time to refresh the stock shock. Hopefully if it's cleaned up and given an oil change it'll match the front fork's drastic improvement.

Not a bad plan.  At least you'll know and it won't be expensive to experiment a bit.  And like I said, a little ride height might liven the bike up a bit too.

While I am all for experimentation with suspension, I don't believe it is possible for us mere mortals to open a shock and change oil or shims. Showa shocks like the Blackbird or VFR have a nitrogen charge above a floating piston at the blind end of the shock body. To open the shock you will need to fight against that gas pressure to get the circlip out, followed by an "exciting" pressure release.

How Showa build these shocks in the first place is a mystery to me, but as there are no shortage of sealed gas shocks in the world it must be simple with the right machinery.

To do the job right, you need to breach the blind end of the body and release the pressure in a more controlled manner, then fit a valve there so you can re-pressurise after rebuilding the shock. 

YMMV and all that.

7 minutes ago, Terry

While I am all for experimentation with suspension, I don't believe it is possible for us mere mortals to open a shock and change oil or shims. Showa shocks like the Blackbird or VFR have a nitrogen charge above a floating piston at the blind end of the shock body. To open the shock you will need to fight against that gas pressure to get the circlip out, followed by an "exciting" pressure release.

How Showa build these shocks in the first place is a mystery to me, but as there are no shortage of sealed gas shocks in the world it must be simple with the right machinery.

To do the job right, you need to breach the blind end of the body and release the pressure in a more controlled manner, then fit a valve there so you can re-pressurise after rebuilding the shock. 

YMMV and all that.

The CBR shocks I've had DMr modify for my old VFs have a new "port" installed at the top just for that reason.

5 hours ago, Terry

While I am all for experimentation with suspension, I don't believe it is possible for us mere mortals to open a shock and change oil or shims. Showa shocks like the Blackbird or VFR have a nitrogen charge above a floating piston at the blind end of the shock body. To open the shock you will need to fight against that gas pressure to get the circlip out, followed by an "exciting" pressure release.

How Showa build these shocks in the first place is a mystery to me, but as there are no shortage of sealed gas shocks in the world it must be simple with the right machinery.

To do the job right, you need to breach the blind end of the body and release the pressure in a more controlled manner, then fit a valve there so you can re-pressurise after rebuilding the shock. 

YMMV and all that.

Thank you for pointing that out. I stumbled across Jamie talking about how he de-gasses and re-gasses montoubes on the superhawk forum. Might be interesting but I think I could do it; I have the know-how to try it, and I'm just dumb enough to consider doing it. I'll do some thinking.

A F4(i) shock would probably be easier to rebuild but would leave me needing a spring if the VFR spring isn't usable for it (which I don't believe it is). Does anyone have a chart for spring rates per rider weight? I'm hesitant to trust racetech's calculator coming from my experience in the dirt world (they spec overly stiff springs like I'm gonna be doing supercross on a DRZ or DR).

Race Tech sell the Schrader valve to recharge an OEM shock. 

Most common spring rates I’ve seen are over 1000#. My Penske has a 1300# spring and is perfect for my fluctuating 200-220 pounds. 

You’re going to need to alter the valving, if you’re planning to change the spring. Not sure anyone will be giving up shim stack info for a specific spring.

If it were me, I’d buy a YSS and be done with it. However, the shock will highlight how bad the frontend is and you’ll be needing to rework that, as well. 

17 minutes ago, ducnut

Race Tech sell the Schrader valve to recharge an OEM shock. 

Most common spring rates I’ve seen are over 1000#. My Penske has a 1300# spring and is perfect for my fluctuating 200-220 pounds. 

You’re going to need to alter the valving, if you’re planning to change the spring. Not sure anyone will be giving up shim stack info for a specific spring.

If it were me, I’d buy a YSS and be done with it. However, the shock will highlight how bad the frontend is and you’ll be needing to rework that, as well. 

Interesting, RT spec'd a 1300 lb spring for me too and I'm heavier than you. 

You are correct, shim stacks are highly coveted and no suspension tuner would ever reveal their secret sauce. Thankfully from what I've read the OE showa uses a straight stack. Shouldn't be too difficult to make a pyramid stack that provides some level of improvement. 

The best you know is only the best you've ridden. So long as I don't taste the $600 sauce I don't know what I'll be missing.

I've never heard of YSS. What are they similar to and can they be purchsed set up properly for the rider's weight before they're shipped? 

42 minutes ago, bmart

I've never heard of YSS. What are they similar to and can they be purchsed set up properly for the rider's weight before they're shipped? 

The most available models have rebound damping adjustment, spring preload and separate ride height adjustment (+/-5mm).  If you buy from the UK YSS Research and Development Center, Firefox Racing, they will fit the shock with a spring rate of your choice for an additional charge.  I think it's like 40 bucks or so.  

I find their spring choice a little on the firm side (which I prefer), I am about 180 lbs without gear. I have never felt the need to change it when ordering after my first one (VF1000F).

Hawk GT

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1995 VFR750F

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ST1100

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I think I'm on my 5th or 6th.  I am very pleased with them.

New avenue to report. The cbr900rr(893) shock appears like it will function. It has a remote reservoir and is adjustable for compression and rebound. Its also 318mm in length so almost spot on for the VFR.

I haven't upgraded my VFR suspension yet, but for the record I put a new YSS shock on the back of my 07 SV650 two years ago and I've been loving it. I researched for weeks and found they were the best value for getting a brand new shock that's great for aggressive street riding, has a good range of adjustability, and is fully serviceable at the end of its life. For me, it beat out the prospect of going with some old, used shock from a different bike or trying to hunt down a Penske or Ohlins that would probably be overkill for what I'm doing anyway. I never even adjusted the shock after mounting it on my bike, it felt pretty good as is.

They are made in Thailand so the English on their website is not the best, but the payment and delivery process was very professional and quick. Just throwin my two cents out there since I saw it being mentioned.

My vfr is still riding on its stock suspension, good to know about a new shock option.     

Picked up a 893 shock and fitted it. Required some wiggling to get it in but it fit like it was meant to be.

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This particular specimen came off a CBR1100XX and has a 1000# Eibach spring on it, and has been into some point going off the schrader valve on the reservoir. Got a deal on it for for the low cost of $80 including the CBRXX linkage and mount. No parts compatibility there beyond the upper shackle unfortunately, so I'll see if I can't resell the excess parts to someone who can get some use out of it. The reservoir hose isn't the longest but you can run it to the LH side and tie it to the subframe. I've got it cable-tied in place for now, a proper mounting solution will be figured out soon. 

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First impressions, it definitely jacks up the rear. I'm up on my feet now compared to how easily flat footed I was previously. I incorrectly set the preload and gave it far too much and now I have to figure out how I twist the adjuster without removing the shock. I was using a pipe wrench and a C-clamp to get it adjusted on the bench. Damping is much improved compared to the monoshock excepting a little harshness from the excess preload. Now the expansion grooves and undulations in the road are whispered through the pegs instead of no feedback until it hits the bottom of the stroke and boots me in the ass like it used to.