Page 1 of 1
Rear Shock absorbers GS 650 Katana
Posted: Thu Jan 26, 2023 10:16 pm
by craik
The rear shocks on my 650 Katana are giving a bumpy ride and look to be coming to the end of their life.
Rather than just going out and buying some random unknown or generic brand off Ebay which I may be disappointed with, can anyone suggest any brands/models for this bike they have tried and can recommend? Am UK based.
Thanks in advance.
PS These were two I came across on Ebay
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/115144297595 £154 (YSS brand - Made in Thailand)
https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/144847819389 £65 (Made in Taiwan)
Re: Rear Shock absorbers GS 650 Katana
Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2023 12:32 am
by fossie
A few people have used YSS and generally happy with them .
Have you looked at Hagon or ikon ?
Re: Rear Shock absorbers GS 650 Katana
Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2023 6:10 pm
by Smallkat
I have YSS on Smallkat, not the fancy remote reservoir ones, just basic ones. They are quite lightly sprung, but I don't weigh much, so they are fine. The damping is good.
I wouldn't buy shocks that retail at £65.
If you are keeping the bike, are outside of 'average' weight or want to buy British (or all three) - I would look at Hagon. Not cheap, but well made and they will tailor the spring to your weight.
Ikon are supposed to be good, but I have no experience of them.
Re: Rear Shock absorbers GS 650 Katana
Posted: Fri Jan 27, 2023 8:43 pm
by fossie
Iam at the moment in this same predicament with my 650 that residides over the water .
The OEM shocks that were fitted to get it registered and a Carte Gris are past their best.
I had hagons on before and they got used on something else..they were more than adequate and are rebuildable . Contacting Hagon directly means you can get them set up as you wish , including getting the springs powder coated in the orangey red as per original. Cost £200+
Koni are now ikon and dial a rides which were the go to back in the day , with rush you £500ish , but their preset range are £300.
YSS have a half decent reputation as cost effective and have a 2 year warranty . Cost 150ish
Cheaper shocks are a bit hit and miss as to spring weights and adequate to ensure roadworthyness.
Trusted suppliers sell them so if not up to the job a discussion could be had. £65 .
I'm leaning towards Hagon with orange springs ...or YSS with red springs .....