noob suspension question: how to tell when a shock is due?

[voodooskin]

I see others on here mention that the stock shock on the K lasts about 20K-30K.

How exactly do you come to the conclusion that the OEM shock is toast and needs replacement?

I haven't noticed any rideability issues between 12K and now at 30K, but the thing could have been a goner when I bought the bike, so curious how one would know other than to spend $ on a new shock and see if it rides better.

On my machine, the whole things seems a bit squishy but hey, it's an LT, my Toyota Avalon is squishy too and always has been, comfort over handling and all that.  I just have nothing to compare it to.

But, it is a 15-yo shock now with 30K.

Thanks for any comments!

[wmax351]

I see others on here mention that the stock shock on the K lasts about 20K-30K.

How exactly do you come to the conclusion that the OEM shock is toast and needs replacement?

I haven't noticed any rideability issues between 12K and now at 30K, but the thing could have been a goner when I bought the bike, so curious how one would know other than to spend $ on a new shock and see if it rides better.

On my machine, the whole things seems a bit squishy but hey, it's an LT, my Toyota Avalon is squishy too and always has been, comfort over handling and all that.  I just have nothing to compare it to.

But, it is a 15-yo shock now with 30K.

Thanks for any comments!

In general, the stock rear shock sucks.


Suspension is kind of a dark art to most people. The bike will feel less planted, the damping will be insufficient. Basically, a bouncy ride. You will know it when you feel it. Even a reasonably priced aftermarket unit is a worthwhile investment, and will be a big improvement.

[BobZ(IL)]

If you're shock is not leaking, you should be able to adjust it to provide adequate ride performance. First set the sag for your normal load. Then work on the damping by riding on different road surfaces and determining where your comfort level lies.

Of course if you're rolling in dough, you can spend part of it on an upgrade and still go through the same process with basically the same results.

[vintagemilano]

Mine was totally seized so the ride was really jiggly and harsh. You could feel every little ripple and tar line in your guts. Mostly shocks fail the other way, giving less and less damping so will be bouncy.

[BobZ(IL)]

I trust you did try adjusting the damping screw, because you are right about bad internal valves usually loosening things up a bit.