Note: Since this Tech Tip was originally written, I’ve added this product line: Suspension Components
Not exactly a “pure” tech tip per se, but I’m asked about this frequently – so here are my recommendations regarding GL1000 shocks.
FRONTS
If you weigh less than about 200# (solo), I recommend OEM stock front springs. If you’re heavier, consider Progressive front springs (available everywhere).
The Progressive springs are a bit stiffer and handle really great…esp. under braking. However, it you’re a medium-sized person like me, the heavier springs will cause the front suspension to “top-out” and bump annoyingly during normal cruise situations. For this reason, I prefer the stock springs with just a wee bit of extra pre-load (accomplished via washer spacers).
REARS
First Question: Are you doing a show restoration? If so, definitely go with OEM rear shocks.
Second question: How much do you weigh? If you weigh more than about 225# (solo) or you frequently carry a passenger or other baggage :), then I’d go with Progressives. These are nice rear units. They look very odd to my eye though.
Otherwise, I would recommend Hagon rear shocks available from David Quinn.
Get the chrome spring + chrome body model (without covers). David Quinn can adjust the spring rate to suit your weight and riding habits. Looks similar to OEM, but has more coils and the overall diameter of the spring is a bit smaller. Much better dampening than OEM and the spring is progressive rate. This is a great handling rear shock in my opinion. Best of all…it’s only half the cost of OEM..about $225/pair
Third choice is OEM. Looks great, but doesn’t function as well as the other two options. Retails for about $188 each! I buy from this guy at substantial discount:
MR Motorcycle and Marine
774 Hendersonville Road
Asheville, NC 28803
800-359-0567
im not gonna mention their name but a company in the states offered me my Hagon shocks at close to 500 us after conversion and gave me the crap line the they had to be custom made and it’d be 4-5 weeks , when in fact I got th e correct shocks from Hagon in 2 DAYS FROM THE UK ! at get this – the price … for under 300 bucks … I understand a guy tying to make a buck, but saying 4-5 weeks so they pay the least amount of shipping costs is just horsecrap. id almost like to mention their name . they need to be taught that its not all take take take . you can still survive and make ends meat without the gauging , look at ransacks for instance. this is a great business man , fair prices , and gives a damn about us getting the correct stuff n staying safe AND returning for more product .
The air suspension systems were always used in heavy-duty vehicles like trucks etc. But now since the technology advancements have made a lot of things more convenient and innovated, the air suspensions kits are now made for cars as well.
Best Airbag Suspension Kit.
There are several types of shocks available for off-road, street-use and touring purposes. In this article let us discuss the best Progressive suspension shocks.
Best Progressive Suspension Shocks.
I’m having trouble narrowing down the stock shock length on a 75 GL1000. I see Progressive recommends a 13″, Hagon a 13.2″ and other vendors as high as 14.375″.
Shocks on the bike are not stock so aren’t much help to measure.
I’ve used shocks as long as 14 1/4″ without issue. Less than 13″ would create cornering clearance issues.
Can you tell me what you consider to be ” a wee bit of extra pre-load” for the OEM front springs for a light rider? Thanks
Start with a “stack” 1/2″ thick and experiment/adjust from there.
Would you mind being a bit more specific on the Progressive springs? My use is well into the heavy duty category. Progressive’s site is awful. It looks to me like the 412’s are the “looks odd” choice you talk about. It appears that there is a “12 series” combo that fits the GL1000, it appears that there are several different looks for the 12 series springs including one that looks close enough to stock for me–but I don’t know if the one that looks right fits.
I think all rear shocks from that vendor look “odd” …at least all the ones I’ve personally seen. I suggest you pursue your questions with Progressive’s Tech support folks to get a definitive answer on fit issues.
I do believe the Hagon offerings are a better value and offer more function.
Thanks. I contacted Progressive’s support, they merely pointed me back to the website and mentioned the heavy duty option was available, but not what its limits were. David Quinn was more helpful, asking questions about weight and expected usage. We came to the conclusion that Hagon’s stock options aren’t suited for my use and loads, so I wound up ordering a custom set.
Glad you found something that worked for you.