Replacing only one shock?

[EncoreJoe]

My LT has 51,000 miles on the original shocks, so they are probably ready to go.

It seems to me the rear of the bike wallows a little more than it used to, but I don't notice that much difference in the front.

Has anyone just replaced the rear shock with good results? Is the life of the front different than the rear shock?

[Tallyho]

Yes, I know riders that have replaced just the rear and then done the front 10-15K miles later without any issue. If you are going with custom shocks it splits the cost up over time buying one at a time. However, you will not receive all the full benefits of a new, matched set of custom shocks for the interim period. The factory shocks on an LT are only meant to last 30-35K miles. Odds are your front shock is ready to go as well. This is one of those items that one never knew how bad it was until your first ride on the new set. Tighter ride, better tire wear, smoother action, etc. I think the rear shock does take more of a beating than the front especially if one excessively relies on engine braking, frequently rides two-up and/or tours with a full load on the tail. If you're a weekend warrior so much the better in replacing one at a time. You can replace the rear unassisted in about an hour once you've read up on the instructions. The front requires at least one buddy and 3-4 hours. You can also have it done more economically during a 12K service as they are already going to pull the fuel tank.

[RonKMiller]

One note:

I've replaced the rear shock on several LT's in about 15 minutes. All you need to do is remove a few screws and pry the tupperware on the right side open. Stick several tennis balls in there to keep it away from the frame while you work on it.

Just don't get too crazy with bending the side panel or it will get REAL expensive REAL fast! :eek: You will know you have gone too far if you hear a loud pop followed by severe pain in your wallet. Best done on a WARM day. ;)

All you need is enough room to get your hand and wrench in there. You will need to pull the battery to get access to the other side of the bolt.

[EncoreJoe]

Thanks for the input. I'm going to go ahead and replace both when I find the best source. Front Ohlins are on back order nationwide according to one vendor.

I've got some warranty re-work coming on my fuel gauge so while the dealer is there I'll have them put the front on.

Thanks for the tips on the rear shock, Ron. It doesn't take much to find a warm day to work on it down here in Texas.

[EncoreJoe]

I'm getting ready to order a set of Wilbers from Ted Porter at Beemershop.com in the San Francisco area.

I know, they're not Ohlins but I guess I just have to be different...

[DanMartin]

nxsperformanceparts.com in Frisco Tx, (north of Dallas) has the rear Ohlins for $754.

Good excuse for a ride.

dan

[EncoreJoe]

Good to hear from you, Dan. By the time I add tax the Wilburs shock from CA will be cheaper at $798. He's quoting $599 for front too which seems to be in the ball park.

I'll be just a few miles from Frisco next weekend (in the cage) so might look them up too.

Joe