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Main Area => General GS500 Discussion => Topic started by: smackdoogie on June 10, 2011, 09:56:11 AM

Title: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: smackdoogie on June 10, 2011, 09:56:11 AM
I know this may have been covered before ,but I know that the katana shock is supposed to work with our gs's as well. but does that include the 750 shock that has the reservoir? maybe able to pick 1 up this weekend and don't want to get it if it won't fit
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: The Buddha on June 10, 2011, 10:04:16 AM
Yea that works too.
Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: smackdoogie on June 10, 2011, 10:16:21 AM
 :woohoo:   thanks b. You are the master.

Sean
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: bombjack on June 10, 2011, 10:33:51 AM
I have a katana 750 shock installed and fits perfectly. However, it's designed for a much heavier bike than the GS, so it's very stiff. If you are a low weight rider you may find it uncomfortable. 
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: ben2go on June 10, 2011, 11:09:31 AM
I also have a 750 Kat shock.
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: The Buddha on June 10, 2011, 11:10:18 AM
Oh yea 160 minimum to get that shock to compress enough to get you a decent ride.
Cool.
Buddha.
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: smackdoogie on June 10, 2011, 11:15:13 AM
Yeah,unfortunately I am close to 200. Tend to fluctuate between 195 and 210 without gear, and the wife is wanting to go for a few rides this summer. Figured the adjustability of firm and soft with the shock reservoir would make unexpected rides easier and maybe get my tail end up a little more sporty. my shots at the dragon this past weekend looked good, just would like the rear to have a sportier appearance but also handle better for the curves.
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: ben2go on June 10, 2011, 01:07:07 PM
Quote from: smackdoogie on June 10, 2011, 11:15:13 AM
Yeah,unfortunately I am close to 200. Tend to fluctuate between 195 and 210 without gear, and the wife is wanting to go for a few rides this summer. Figured the adjustability of firm and soft with the shock reservoir would make unexpected rides easier and maybe get my tail end up a little more sporty. my shots at the dragon this past weekend looked good, just would like the rear to have a sportier appearance but also handle better for the curves.

I am between 190 and 200.When I first installed the Kat 750 shock I was 210 to 220.Weights were without gear.I really like the firmness of the shock.It goes well with my Kat 750 front end and Bandit600 rear wheel.I drag peg before I get to the edge of my tires.Time for rear sets.
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: burning1 on June 10, 2011, 01:21:45 PM
220lbs is a pretty decent weight for the Kat 750 shock. If you weigh less than 200, the R6 shock is probably a better choice.

Be aware that there can be some clearance issues installing the Kat shock. I had to wedge a crowbar behind it to get it to fit on my GS500. But once it's on, the clearance is a non issue.
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: ben2go on June 10, 2011, 01:26:11 PM
Quote from: burning1 on June 10, 2011, 01:21:45 PM
220lbs is a pretty decent weight for the Kat 750 shock. If you weigh less than 200, the R6 shock is probably a better choice.

Be aware that there can be some clearance issues installing the Kat shock. I had to wedge a crowbar behind it to get it to fit on my GS500. But once it's on, the clearance is a non issue.

No install issues on my 89.I also have a how to on tearing apart a shock for paint and reassembly.I made a cheap one time use spring compressor from cheap easily found hardware.

http://gstwins.com/gsboard/index.php?topic=41239.msg463690#msg463690
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: smackdoogie on July 16, 2011, 03:13:09 PM
ok. bringing back a small thread about the katana 750 shock. i realize the preload is done by tightening up the two adjusters on the shock. i also know about the compression damping via the reservoir. and i believe the rebound damping is done by the small screw under the shock on the bottom. the reservoir seems to twist out 5 full 360 degree turns. and the compression has just 1-4 on it. tried to check katriders to see how to adjust but seem to be ignorant as to how to set up for my weight. any one got a spec sheet or instructions on what works best for you and your weight? trying to get a baseline from anyone that has done the kat750 swap. any suggestions are appreciated. i am about 200lbs and gotta add saddlebags and gear i'll be about 220-230. thanks about the input.

sean
Title: Re: 750 katana shock compatible?
Post by: burning1 on July 16, 2011, 03:31:39 PM
Baseline is going to depend on your weight and the condition of the shock. Generally, on the GS you're going to want very little preload, lowest rebound damping setting and, IIRC, about 2 turns of compression damping from full stiff.