rear shock leaking on 1995 K75

[mtwhickory]

I noticed some oil (lightweight, fairly clear) on the rear wheel center of my 1995 K75.  I also noticed that the last time I road, the bike was bouncy.  My assumption is that the rear shock is leaking.  I am thinking of selling the bike so I am not interested in an expensive shock.

Should I:
A) Have the shock repaired (is there a seal kit for it?)
B) Buy a used shock (if so which one?)
C) Replace with a new shock (if so, is Progressive the only less expensive choice.  Difference between 412 and 420?)

How difficult is it to replace this? Something I can do or is there a spring compression tool necessary?

Thanks,
Michael

[TimTyler]

I'd sell the bike with the bad shock and MAKE THAT CLEAR TO THE BUYER. The buyer may want to put a high quality shock on the bike.

[mtwhickory]

I'd sell the bike with the bad shock and MAKE THAT CLEAR TO THE BUYER. The buyer may want to put a high quality shock on the bike.

I thought about that.  I was actually showing the bike to an interested buyer and noticed the oil when I took the bag off.  He seemed to think $2300 was about the right asking price with the bad shock.  I just want to make sure is IS the shock.  Given the location, I can't think of anything else it could be.  Plus, he and I both noticed the bounciness (he has a K75 as well).

[TimTyler]

It could be brake fluid from a leaking rear master cylinder.

[Motorhobo]

IMHO $2300 is a fair price for a k75 with any obvious mechanical issues, but I agree wth Tim that you should find out what's leaking. I also agree with Tim that you should sell the bike as is minus shock. If you put a crappy shock on it, for a serious buyer that's more of a liability than a plus -- many a buyer might just make you lowball offer and tell you the crappy shock you spent good money on has to be replaced anyway.

Shock rebuild is a possibility but only the good ones are rebuildable. Do you know what kind of shock it is?

Like Tim said -- you sure the leak isn't break fluid? Maybe your shock is fine and just needs adjustment.

[subforry]

If the shock still has any oil in it, then wipe the shock shaft dry, especially around the seal.  Bounce the bike and check for oil at the seal.

[Chaos]

I'd sell the bike with the bad shock and let the buyer choose what he wants. They may want the short shock option. Changing the shock is simple, Centerstand, bolts top and bottom, no spring compressor needed.

[K75RT Keith]

+1 on leaving the old shock on.  subforry makes a very good observation.  His suggestion will eliminate one of the possible  causes and inspecting the rear brake master and lines will take care of the other.