2021 Rear Shock Rebuildable

[leachy]

Hi All,

Just wondering if anyone knows if its possible to rebuild the rear shock on the non SE version of the Versys. Im finding I riding the bike currently at close to full or full preload with two up and panniers, rider + pillion and gear around 200kg extra. to me it fells like it need rebound dampening.

So before I explore the new shock route I was wondering if the existing is rebuildable.

Regards
Leachy.

[Versys-V1K]

Had my 2015's shock revalved and resprung Stateside. I'd be surprised, if you couldn't find someone where you're at to do the same.

[Tiggadave]

I bought a Hagon shock, sprung for my weight with luggage. I'm very pleased with its performance for the price. I'm pretty sure the OEM shock is not easily rebuildable.

[RaYzerman]

Leachy, the first rule of suspension is you need the proper spring rate to support you and the bike, and in your case, strong enough to do two-up when you add preload.  The stock spring is simply not up to the task, causing you to use excessive preload at the moment.  Secondly, if you have a similar/same shock as my 2016, there is only a rebound adjuster which can be tricky to dial in.

In my case, the stock spring is ~650 lbs/in, and for a 200 lb. person, it should be ~800.  I was only able to find a 750 lbs. spring x 8" long.  It is adequate for me with a couple of clicks of preload added, with the rebound set at one turn or just under.  With the stock spring I had it dialed in ~12-13 clicks, with the rebound set at one turn as the best I could get.  With the current setup, I find it adequate for one-up, but wishing for aftermarket valving that includes compression and rebound.

For starters, I'd suggest getting a new spring and see how it goes.... I'd try that first.

There are shops that rebuild OEM shocks by drilling a hole for a Schraeder valve so it can be refilled with nitrogen.  You would only need to "rebuild" yours if it was leaking/lost damping oil, or if you find a shop that will also re-valve it so you have better damping adjustment. 

[leachy]

Thanks for the info there is a guy about 5 hrs away that will do the work, but needs the bike for about a week apparently he is the guru for rebuilding and upgrading factory shock. Ill try the spring upgrade first but I think the rebound dampening wont be adequate to control the stiffer spring return rate.

Thanks for the advice.

Leachy

[leachy]

Just wondering what options are out there in the world for the rear shock. There isn't alot here in Australia.

Regards
Leachy

[RaYzerman]

I don't know if the shock is the same as my 2016, I can't imagine the spring rate is much different if any.  I experimented last year with a 750 lb. straight rate spring and that allowed me to ride with very little preload.  Damping was not improved, hard to set it just right.  Currently, I have installed a HyperPro progressive spring, spring rates unknown as they don't disclose it.  Now I have it at 10 clicks of preload and the damping adjustment set at just over 1 turn out.  This is a plusher ride and the damping seems better.... not technically true of course, but the initial part of the progressive spring is compensating for the poor OEM damping.  I was in Ohio over many twisty roads and conditions a week ago, and was very pleased with how the shock now performs.  I'm wild guessing the overall or "average" spring rate is about 700lbs., but for this application I'd use the Hyperpro.  I no longer feel the need for an aftermarket shock.

[leachy]

Hi RaYzerman,

Do you know what part number or is it easy to understand from their website.

Regards
Leachy

[RaYzerman]

Just look up your year from their website.... note, part number for 2015-18 (SP-KA10-SSB024) and for 2019-21 (SP-KA10-SSB037).... perhaps length difference.  2015-18 is an 8" long spring, slightly less when installed.  List price is 95 BP, ebay seller has is for 89 BP.  Best contact the supplier if any question....  you will need a spring compressor to swap it out....

I used this one, cheap enough if you shop around.  Be sure to grease the threads well, and add a washer to each nut to keep threads/fittings from galling.....
http://www.unit-products.com/handtool/p1124.html

[leachy]

Thanks much appreciated.