View Full Version : Rear Shocks goin bad.
BuddyRich
10-07-2006, 03:26 AM
Well, Mine finally went after 30k miles on my 05.Its got oil all over the boot and the lower mount.I wonder how many here have had the shock replaced at least once, and how many have had it replace more than once.
If you have had to replace your rear shock post a quik reply so maybe we can get a count.
Just added some pics of what to look for for those that have not had this problem yet
breakingparts
10-07-2006, 06:43 AM
I bought mine with a bad shock this year. 1999 with 23,000 miles. Replaced with new yamaha part. different design. so far so good.
spotsy
10-07-2006, 07:11 AM
I have a 99. Mine has been done twice under warranty. Both of these were the new style unless they have updated again. One in Nov 04 and the last one in Dec of 05. If it goes bad again I will not use Yamaha just because of the failure rate. I know someone else makes one just not sure who it is right now. I think a few dollars more but it's got to last longer.
:-)
Spotsy
SteveD
10-07-2006, 08:23 AM
It seems to be a problem on a lot of the RSV's. I still have the original shock, still holding oil, still holds air, adjusts just fine and functions right at 163K and 15 years. What's the difference between the VR shock and the RSV shock? I thought they were basically the same? Maybe you should find an old VR shock and install that. Might last you another 10 years or so.
Freebird
10-07-2006, 09:00 AM
Mine has been changed once.
relic
10-07-2006, 10:05 AM
Mine has started to groan when you sit on the bike. Just started 2 weeks ago and I will check to see if it is leaking but is this an indication that she's starting to go bad??
Tartan Terror
10-07-2006, 10:14 AM
Read the write up in the tech section where a shock is disected. I just had mine replaced under warranty to a new number. It seems that they have changed o a shock that fits a couple different models Now. If I had to pay for one right now (Is it out of warranty) I would buy the works performance shock without delay. It is about the same price and is fully rebuildable. I only used the Yammy because it was free this time.
Rich99
10-07-2006, 10:37 AM
Well, Mine finally went after 30k miles on 05.Its got oil all over the boot and the lower mount.I wonder how many here have had the shock replaced at least once, and how many have had it replace more than once.
If you have had to replace your rear shock post a quik reply so maybe we can get a count.
Just added some pics of what to look for for those that have not had this problem yetI never replaced the shock on my 83 Venture, and it had 106k on it. But here we go again! I'm always a pain in the butt, because I always see the negative, and let everybody know about it. Well its this way, we all know they don't make anything as good as they use to, because they don't make any money that way. But here is another fact, I always ran a high pressure in my rear shock, and never had any problem. On my 99, I ran high pressure also, and I've never had to replace the rear shock of which has 75k on it. So here's the punch line; on my last trip, I decided to take out around 20 lbs. to see if the ride was better, and wala, there was oil under my bike the other day, of which was coming from the rear shock. To me, it seems if you run high pressure, it's less harder on the shock, because you don't bottom out. Yes, the ride is a little stiffer, but it saves the shock. With less pressure, I hit a bad bump the other day, and now I have a leak. This is just like the tire thing that's been brought up several times. I use to get 20k and better on both tires. Now, nobody seems to get any more than 9k, so here again, they make more money now, because we have to buy tires more often. I guess when I replace my shock, I'll go back to running the higher pressure, who knows????:confused24:
Black Ice
10-07-2006, 11:02 AM
Have replaced it once on my 05.
Obber
10-07-2006, 11:21 AM
Replaced mine this summer. 2000 MM RSV with 30,000 miles. Went back with new design Yamaha shock. With it being out of warranty I ordered mine from www.flatoutmotorcycles.com (http://www.flatoutmotorcycles.com). $365.17 for the shock $22.00 shipping. Took about an hour to replace myself.
Ramblingman
10-07-2006, 01:02 PM
Gentlemen the problem is with the New Generation RSV...I just had mine replaced ...I had oil on the garage floor ....myself if it happens again I'll order the Works Performance Shock ....from what I'm reading the new style isn't holding up much better then the old style shock ...Myself I think a rebuildable shock will be much better ....just my opion tho!!!
Phil Gigliotti
10-07-2006, 01:32 PM
Buddy my shock was replaced with about 32,000 miles. But before Susanville I had oil on floor, 40,000 miles, but decided to chance it 3000 more miles no more oil. I do have to add air once in a while
Have a good day Phil
wuzfuzz
10-07-2006, 07:41 PM
My '03 had a shock replaced on warranty with just under 16,000 kms on it............. moaning only, no oil leak. Now with almost 45,000 kms, the 2nd one is beginning to make noise.
BuddyRich,
You just had to go and mention this didnt you??? :)
Mine was doing fine until I read your post .. :rotf: :rotf:
After reading your post / thread on the rear shock leaking, and you wanted to know how many has had the problem..I went out and looked at mine, and low and behold...mine is leaking too...
Now mine is not as bad as yours (by the pictures you posted), but Im sure with in another week or two it will be.
It looks like mine just started to leak...
I will be calling the dfealer to morrwo for the warenty replacement.
Is there a special part number they use to replace the defective ones with??
BuddyRich
10-08-2006, 02:30 PM
Oh, Yea, Blame it on me :rotf::rotf:
Don't know. I just took it to the dealer yesteday and they said they would order it and it should be in by Fri. He just looked it up on the computer , didn't tell me if it was a new part number or what.
V7Goose
10-08-2006, 07:46 PM
The shock on my 05 went around 22,000. Dealer actually noticed it before I did when bike was in for service.
Goose
[quote=BuddyRich;23503]Oh, Yea, Blame it on me :rotf::rotf:
Heck, I have to blame it on someone...
may as well be you!! LOL :cool10: :)
My bike just turned over 25,300 miles...
scubadiver
10-09-2006, 03:03 PM
My '01 shock was replaced at 24K and I am now awaiting shipment of the replacement for that one (41K). I REALLY don't like the way a bad shock affects high speed stability and hope this replacement will be an improved version.
I have had two replaced in two years and yes there is a difference in the new shocks. The first one was replace with old stock and supposedly the second one was replace with the new stock.
Jerry
eddy1156
10-09-2006, 04:01 PM
Yamaha should have already had a recall on the rear shock problem, it seems to be pretty common. I have an 05. The rear shock is loosing pressure and leaking oil.
Blue Skies!
Eddy1156
abhix
10-10-2006, 12:40 AM
:225: I have a 2001. Replaced the 1st shock with less than 1500 km's. Bike was so new to me, I believe it was actually leaking when I got it home!!!
Put second shock on at around 21000 km's, and 3rd one at 41,500. Only got to ride approx 6500 km's this year, so, haven't changed it yet.
It urks the hell out of me that Yamaha, with all there experience, can't get it right. But, my dealer and I agree on this one: as long as I own this bike, Yamaha can pay for the shock and install unless they finally come up with a fix.
I fully expect to replace the shock again next season. Calling for flurries here for the next couple days.:95:
Snarley Bill
10-10-2006, 09:52 AM
my shock on my 05 really groans when cold at started all of a sudden at 12,000 miles.i shot oil in the air tube (about one ounce),and it did'nt help much.i think it's the seal making all the noise.i was thinking about mixing something really slick like stp with light oil and see if that would cure it.it doesn't leak yet but from the sound of the seal it won't be long before it gets ate up.i'll let you all know if it works.bill :)
[quote=wpredock;24039]
my shock on my 05 really groans when cold................
Bill, Are you SURE it is the shock and not YOU??????? :rotf: :rotf: :cool10: :whistling: :buttkick:
big_mike
10-10-2006, 04:32 PM
i lost the oil in my shock but it still held air until recently, so today i went to a dealer and checked the price of a new one and was quoted $500.00 for a new one. next i checked with the service manager and had him check my vin# seeing i'm the second owner and i was 3 mos. out of warranty.
i then called yamaha warranty and spoke to them i found out that there was NO recall on the shock but they did change venders (upgrade) not admiting that they ever had a problem. but to make a long story short they covered it but they said i had to pay a dealer to change it. thank god my kids know the service manager so i cut a deal with him and i'll remove the old one and drop it off and it will take 2 or 3 days for a replacement.
one thing that i believed helped with yamaha is the fact that i let them know that i belong to this club i really think it helped.:cool10: :cool10:
Condor
10-10-2006, 05:14 PM
If you have had to replace your rear shock post a quik reply so maybe we can get a count.
Buddy, I have a used one off an '88VR you're welcome to if it'll fit.
BuddyRich
10-10-2006, 06:35 PM
Buddy, I have a used one off an '88VR you're welcome to if it'll fit.
I went thru Rio Vista yesterday and at 9:15 there was an 88 at the Chevron, How you riding that without a shock?
Condor
10-10-2006, 10:29 PM
I went thru Rio Vista yesterday and at 9:15 there was an 88 at the Chevron, How you riding that without a shock?
It's amazing how much stuff you can tear off a 1stGen if you can only get them to stand still for a second or two..... What I wanna know is.....whachu doing eye balling Oldsmobiles??? :no-no-no:
This may help someone if your not satisfied with your local Dealers responce....
http://www.yamaha.com/yamahavgn/CDA/ContentDetail/Text_WithCatMenu_SC/0,,CTID%253D600149%2526CNTYP%253D,00.html (http://www.yamaha.com/yamahavgn/CDA/ContentDetail/Text_WithCatMenu_SC/0,,CTID%253D600149%2526CNTYP%253D,00.html)
Tartan Terror
10-11-2006, 02:03 PM
This may help someone if your not satisfied with your local Dealers responce....
http://www.yamaha.com/yamahavgn/CDA/ContentDetail/Text_WithCatMenu_SC/0,,CTID%253D600149%2526CNTYP%253D,00.html (http://www.yamaha.com/yamahavgn/CDA/ContentDetail/Text_WithCatMenu_SC/0,,CTID%253D600149%2526CNTYP%253D,00.html)
ECK that link is for the Musical end of Yamaha. Keyboard and amps and such. Not for the Bikes.
ECK that link is for the Musical end of Yamaha. Keyboard and amps and such. Not for the Bikes.
Maybe I am wrong here, but I think ya got to read the last bullet:
For other inquiries you may contact the Yamaha National Service Manager:
Harvey Casey
Yamaha Corporation of America
Technical Support/Parts
HCasey@yamaha.com (HCasey@yamaha.com)
(714) 522-9462, Please call Monday – Friday, between 8:30am – 5:00pm PST/PDT
Tartan Terror
10-12-2006, 01:35 PM
Eck, this is where the complaints go!!
http://www.starmotorcycles.com/star/contactus/home.aspx
Yamaha motors and the electronics are seperate. This is under Star Motorcycles. I did confirm this with my Buddy Eric at the dealer. Going to his house to watch the Mets being as my Yankees got knocked out. Go Tigers!!!
[quote=Tartan Terror;24681]Eck, this is where the complaints go!!
http://www.starmotorcycles.com/star/contactus/home.aspx
Thanks Scott...this may come in handy some day!!!..
excuse my posting please..
Here is some other news about leaking rear shocks....
Yesterday, I called the manager of the Yamaha dealership here in Decatur, Al, and told him my rear shock is leaking. We were on the phone for about 10 minutes taling about this VR.org site and fine mix of members and how we share jokes, stories, helpful tech info and "our complaints" and any dissatisfaction with local Dealers where we live...(that got his attention).
I talked about (and read) some of the posts that members here posted about thier rear shock, is or was,leaking and fiascos they have had getting Yamaha support to swap them out or take appropriate action..
I actually read some of the "damaging" posts .. word for word..to him..
And yes, he WAS listening...I could tell by his voice and questions..
Not once did he ask me to bring my bike in for him, or his service dept personnel to look at it.. to see if my shock was leaking..
He said: Mr. Nace, I will call my area rep and see if he has heard about the rear shocks leaking and make sure if yours is covered under warrenty..
(I thought,,,, it damn well better be, I have the famous 5 yr warrenty)
Well he called me back today and said: Mr. Nace, I have your rear shock on order and it is covered under warrenty at no cost at all to you for any labor or the replacement shock. I expect it here next week. I will call you when it arrives to set up the warrenty work arrangements that are most convienent to you.....
As for the leaking shocks you spoke about, my rep said he has not heard of and is not aware of any leaking shocks on the 2005 or newer models. My rep said there was a problem with the early 2nd gen rear shocks leaking, and Yamaha corrected that problem..and came out with a newer type shock, and the newer type shocks were being installed on all 05 and newer models...
All I can say folks is I am happy (for the moment) in that this manager DID what he said he would do. He called his rep and he DID call me back and he did this with a kind voice..
I do want everyone here to know that I "highlighted and copied" only the 2005 and newer model complaints in the posts of leaking shocks, and paste'd them on a word document. Then I printed it out so that I can take it with me to show him the damaging evidence of complaints that Yamaha "may think" they corrected the problem, but here is constructive proof the problem still exsits...
Lets see where it goes.....thats all I can do.. :thumbsup2:
Tartan Terror
10-12-2006, 11:41 PM
Great Job ECK. I guess we do hold a lot of power here. Information sharing is a tool and weapon to others!
BuddyRich
10-13-2006, 12:23 AM
Thanks ECK....
Mine,being an 05 is leaking and if they want to see proof of it, its the first post
Last 6 of the VIN is 000661, Should any REPs be watching this site.
They should be worried about loss of control and a resulting class action suit. As many as they have had to replace its pretty obivious there is a design flaw. And leaking oil in front of a tire is all an attorney needs to hang them out to dry.
I still think its the best bike I have ever owned though, the more I ride it the better it gets.
Rick Butler
10-13-2006, 12:49 AM
Well Guys,
I guess it's time to re-post my pictures where I cut my 2001 shock open to see what made it tick and why did it leak.
Buddy, I changed out two of them on my 2001 but none on my 2002. But now I run a Works shock so I don't have to worry about leaking shocks ever again.
The reason these shocks leak is that the ram gets vertical scratches probably from a dry bushing that resides above the seal. But like we all know when we get scratches in our forks, the seals start leaking (more like weeping). I think if the ram stayed lubed like it was designed, it would be tougher to be scratched and thus start leaking (again more like weeping).
So here are my pictures and if you haven't read it yet, I also re-posted my lengthy version of this subject (Understanding your RSV Rear shock) in the 2nd Gen Teck Library under Suspensions.
Rick
Black Ice
10-13-2006, 11:47 AM
Thanks Eck. WE all know that the shock problem exists with ALL 2nd gens including 05 and newer and I'm sure this is common knowledge with practically all Venture owners. I love my bike and wouldn't want anything else but it drives me absolutely crazy that Yamaha ALWAYS says they aren't aware of a problem that everyone else knows about.
I heard this about the leaking exhaust join too and one day, perhaps in a weaker moment when I was complaining about this ignorance on Yamaha's part, the owner of the dealership where I go admitted very quietly that Yamaha never admits to any problem.
They will fix most things but perhaps because they don't want to issue recalls, always say "nope, never heard of that".
Anyway, just needed to vent a little.
I do think our posts and our numbers help us out a lot when dealing with these issues. Yamaha may not admit to things but they do know about these problems.
Cheers, Gary B
Snarley Bill
10-14-2006, 01:42 AM
Well Guys,
I guess it's time to re-post my pictures where I cut my 2001 shock open to see what made it tick and why did it leak.
Buddy, I changed out two of them on my 2001 but none on my 2002. But now I run a Works shock so I don't have to worry about leaking shocks ever again.
The reason these shocks leak is that the ram gets vertical scratches probably from a dry bushing that resides above the seal. But like we all know when we get scratches in our forks, the seals start leaking (more like weeping). I think if the ram stayed lubed like it was designed, it would be tougher to be scratched and thus start leaking (again more like weeping).
So here are my pictures and if you haven't read it yet, I also re-posted my lengthy version of this subject (Understanding your RSV Rear shock) in the 2nd Gen Teck Library under Suspensions.
Rick thanks for the great pic's rick.i think your right on the scoring of the ram.i think the groaning noise is the seal. when i let the air out of mine it makes no noise.i think when the seal has pressure behind it .the neoprene is forced against the metal and forces the lube out and runs kind of dry.causing the groan.going to try something slick like stp mixed with a light oil to eliminate the groan.mine does'nt leak yet but from the sound it won't be long.bill
Rich99
10-20-2006, 02:47 AM
Replaced mine this summer. 2000 MM RSV with 30,000 miles. Went back with new design Yamaha shock. With it being out of warranty I ordered mine from www.flatoutmotorcycles.com (http://www.flatoutmotorcycles.com). $365.17 for the shock $22.00 shipping. Took about an hour to replace myself.Obber, you talked me into it, as I just ordered one. When I called my dealer, they wanted $500, that's as far as that call went. I mean, all I want is a shock, and I went into shock when they told me the price. I can see why they gave us a 5 year warranty on this bike, I have a 99 RSV, with all that's failed on this bike, I would have had to remortgage my house to pay for the repairs. :crying: :mo money:
Toolman
10-20-2006, 07:04 AM
I have one off an 86 royale in good condition. Make me a good offer and it's yours. You pay the postage.
later Toolman
Rich99
11-06-2006, 04:08 PM
Replaced mine this summer. 2000 MM RSV with 30,000 miles. Went back with new design Yamaha shock. With it being out of warranty I ordered mine from www.flatoutmotorcycles.com (http://www.flatoutmotorcycles.com). $365.17 for the shock $22.00 shipping. Took about an hour to replace myself.Hey Obber, ordered a shock from the same place you did on Oct. 20th for the same price, and still haven't seen it. How long did you have to wait to get it. I looked up their phone number, and got a recording saying it was no longer connected??? Will see if I can find out anything by going on their web site I guess. See if they show a different phone number.:mustache:
BuddyRich
11-06-2006, 04:16 PM
Flat Out
8118 E. Washington St. Indianapolis IN 46219
Phone: 317-881-6686, 317-882-2453 Fax: 317-890-9120
Did you try those numbers Rich ?
Rich99
11-06-2006, 04:31 PM
Flat Out
8118 E. Washington St. Indianapolis IN 46219
Phone: 317-881-6686, 317-882-2453 Fax: 317-890-9120
Did you try those numbers Rich ?
Number I found was 317-890-9110 Buddy. Seems like they have several numbers. One of those two you gave me was for Greenwood. As is, I think their closed today, just like all cycle shops, so I'll either call them tomorrow, or see if I get an answer back on my e-mail. Thanks for the extra numbers; I tried the 9110 number, and they were closed. :duck: Catch cha later. Rich
Rich99
11-06-2006, 04:40 PM
Flat Out
8118 E. Washington St. Indianapolis IN 46219
Phone: 317-881-6686, 317-882-2453 Fax: 317-890-9120
Did you try those numbers Rich ?
There goes my luck again Buddy, just got an e-mail from the post-master that said my e-mail didn't go through. I tried info@, there's another one bill@flatoutmotorcycles.com, I guess I'll try one more time.:confused24:
Tour Deluxe
11-06-2006, 09:03 PM
My 2001 RSV rear shock quit @ 10,000 miles/ 1 year old in TN. , 800 miles from home. Rear end of the bike broke loose on a turn because of the oil leaking from the shock. The local dealer in pigon forge fixed it right away but made me pay the freight bill ( I was ok w/ that). Kept it till 2004 w/ about 35,000, had no more problems.
Gary N.
11-07-2006, 12:52 AM
My '03 let go in Sept. of '04 with about 6000 miles on it. I've got 34000 miles on it now and other than the grown that's been there for a while it doesn't seem to be leaking again. Now that I said that, watch it start leaking now.
Rich99
11-07-2006, 01:38 AM
Flat Out
8118 E. Washington St. Indianapolis IN 46219
Phone: 317-881-6686, 317-882-2453 Fax: 317-890-9120
Did you try those numbers Rich ?
Wouldn't you know it Buddy; as soon as I got through going through all this mess, I went out the front door to go do some shopping, and there it was. I guess I'll look first next time, and then go through all this trouble. :buttkick: :bang head:
99silver
11-07-2006, 11:41 PM
Mine went out on my 99 just before warranty expired, dealer changed out with no problem ( Wheels USA, Oxford, MI ).
:thumbsup:
I'm hopeing they build a good one
before it goes again.
Gary
Rick Butler
11-08-2006, 01:50 PM
Guys,
I frankly have no evidence of this, but I've been told by John Madden over in Germany that the Leveling Links help the leaking shock problem. John was one of the first to try the new links from my "Build Your Own" instructions and had some machined over there. The only think I can think of that would help this situation is that by raising the bike up to level it out, it takes some of the pressure off of the back side of the shock ram that is more subceptable to abnormal wear from the inner bushing.
In other words, with the stock linkage, the shock sits tilted back ever so slightly which may cause more wear on the back side of the ram over time and use. And by leveling up the bike with the new links it may put the shock in a position that there is no undue pressure on either side of the shock, thus giving it a neutral resistance as it moves up and down.
Since I helped Works Performance develope their shock for the RSV, I have been running that shock since July of 2003, so I have no recent experience with the stock shock in this regards.
I am just wondering if anyone who has changed to the new links has suffered a blown shock?
Rick
BuddyRich
11-08-2006, 02:39 PM
I have had the links on for 16k or more. The shock blew while they are on it.
So about half of the shocks life were with the links on it.
I am just curious,I havnt had any problems with the shock on my 2004 RSV.I inflate mine only with a hand pump with an air gauge built on it. Like this one below. Just curious if the high pressure air from air hoses contribute to the leaks or blow outs?
BuddyRich
11-08-2006, 03:14 PM
IT would if you go over pressure.
I use a compressor, but set the regulator for the pressure I want. I have never gone over 35 cause she gets a little stiff in the rear after that. Most of the time its running around 15 by myself and 30 when its 2 up.
arhayes
11-12-2006, 08:07 PM
I replaced mine on my 2000MM at 9,000, 16,000 and 25,000 miles, all under warranty. I always ran about 35 lbs in it. I've got 9,000 on the '05, and so far only have the "groan". I do have the links installed since I bought it at 2,300 miles, so we'll see if that makes a difference.
Obber
07-17-2007, 03:02 AM
Hey Obber, ordered a shock from the same place you did on Oct. 20th for the same price, and still haven't seen it. How long did you have to wait to get it. I looked up their phone number, and got a recording saying it was no longer connected??? Will see if I can find out anything by going on their web site I guess. See if they show a different phone number.:mustache:
Just saw this from you. :bang head:
Some reason I miss this way back in Nov.
:buttkick: Go ahead you can give me the boot.
I'm think it might have been the Internet.:smash2: Anyway that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Just wondering if you ever got your shock?
Charles
I know this a rather old thread, but it relates to my current problem. It's been a while since I've checked in here, but when you need info, there's no better place. I had the puddle of oil under my bike (with telltale drops coming off the shock mount) yesterday. It's a 2000 w about 25K on it. I thought it was a bit early for the rear shock to go, but seems like many others have experienced this problem even sooner. The odd thing was that the bike had not been ridden for almost a week and had not leaked a drop. Then we got some extra hot and humid weather and yesterday it made a puddle on the floor. I rode about125 miles last night - not a drop this morning. I also got the $500 quote from the dealer, so I may order one from Flat Out, too.
Several folks have mentioned Works Performance shock, but no one gave a web address, e-mail or phone # for them and I don't see them listed in the Vendor section. Can someone post the website or contact info, please?
Other than that - Life is good. A slew of personal tasks have kept me from riding as much as I would have liked this year or making any of the VR events - maybe next year.
Rich99
07-20-2007, 01:19 PM
Just saw this from you. :bang head:
Some reason I miss this way back in Nov.
:buttkick: Go ahead you can give me the boot.
I'm think it might have been the Internet.:smash2: Anyway that's my story and I'm sticking to it.
Just wondering if you ever got your shock?
CharlesThat's okay Charles, I finally got my s*** together and picked up the shock from Flat Out, installed it and hope that it performs like the old one did, as I got (what I say 75k out of it). So no problem with the late comeback guy, hope your shock is doing well, have a great day.:mustache:
How many of you have changed the rear shock yourself? Any tips, suggestions or advice from your experience that would make it easier?
Works Performance claims 30-40K before needing to rebuild the shock. If you have the Works shock installed - how many miles do you have on it and how is it holding up? Have you needed to have it repaired yet? Do you repair it yourself or send it in?
It looks like quite a few members have needed to replace the Yamaha shock several times in that period, so I question whether it's worth it to replace a prematurely bad shock with another Yamaha shock.
It seems to me that the original factory shock should have lasted at least 30K. I hestitate to spend $500 for a non-rebuildable shock + $125 for labor just to have to replace it again in another 20K. I also don't want to have to take the rear end off my bike every 20,000 miles and have to send the shock to CA to be repaired.
Thanks for the input
SaltyDawg
07-22-2007, 11:12 AM
How many of you have changed the rear shock yourself? Any tips, suggestions or advice from your experience that would make it easier?
Works Performance claims 30-40K before needing to rebuild the shock. If you have the Works shock installed - how many miles do you have on it and how is it holding up? Have you needed to have it repaired yet? Do you repair it yourself or send it in?
It looks like quite a few members have needed to replace the Yamaha shock several times in that period, so I question whether it's worth it to replace a prematurely bad shock with another Yamaha shock.
It seems to me that the original factory shock should have lasted at least 30K. I hestitate to spend $500 for a non-rebuildable shock + $125 for labor just to have to replace it again in another 20K. I also don't want to have to take the rear end off my bike every 20,000 miles and have to send the shock to CA to be repaired.
Thanks for the input
First off if you are interested in the Works Performance contact RichH at www.buckeyeperformance.com (http://www.buckeyeperformance.com) and he can order it for you.
I have changed to the Works Performance shock and have 9,000 miles on it so far and have NO complaints at all. It is a high quality product built to YOUR specifications. When you order it you give your weight, passengers weight, whether you tow, how much 2 up driving you do, what type of driving you do and how much you tow. Then they make a shock specifically for your bike.
To me this shock is heads and shoulders above the stock shock, your first ride will tell you that, not to mention holding it in your hands. It's beefier and looks much better.
As far as rebuilding, I am told you have to send it in and they will rebuild it for around $100.00. Sure beats $500.00 for a new OEM that still fails and can't be rebuilt.
I changed it myself and it took about 45 minutes if I remember correctly. I suggest taking the rear tire off to gain easier access although it can be done with it on if you have small hands. Changing it is pretty straight forward just 2 bolts one on top and one on the bottom. I suggest putting the top bolt in first because the top of the shock has 2 bushings and if you put the bottom in first chances are pretty good you are going to knock one or both of the bushings out trying to line up the top bolt.
The Works Performance shock is more expensive up front, but if you plan on keeping your RSV and riding it a lot then it will pay for itself in the long run.
Wayne
I appreciate the info. I'm going to call Works in the morning (or send an e-mial to the address in your post) and see how much "a little more upfront" amounts to in $$ and cents. I plan on keeping this bike for quite some time, so I don't mind spending a little more for a better product. I hate to spend $500 if Yamaha can't/won't warranty the replacement shock for reasonable distance.
My concern with changing the shock myself is keeping the bike from tipping over. I have a bike lift, but with the rear tire and luggage off, it seems the shift in weight could cause it to drop forward and then off the lift. I suppose I could block up the front tire and then wratchet strap the front end to a couple rafters.
Condor
07-22-2007, 05:09 PM
You boys must be talking about a 1stGen. We all know that nothing ever goes wrong with a 2ndGen...........:whistling::stirthepot:
dave brady
10-14-2007, 12:26 PM
yes 15000 miles and replaced we should push yamaha for a recall
BradT
10-14-2007, 05:00 PM
Just last week I noticed a small puddle of oil under the shock. 38,000 miles. I installed levelling links justa couple months back.
I think it has been leaking for a while though
Brad
midnightventure
10-14-2007, 09:25 PM
I had mine replaced after about 20000 miles. Went out to start it one morning and it had a puddle under it. Wiped up the oil and went to the dealer. He tried to tell me I had overfilled the bike with oil and the oil was coming out of a tube routed by the shock. I had somebody stand the bike up and the oil was right where it should be. I told them to look an they wouldn't even bend over and look. By the next spring it wouldn't hold air for 20 miles and they finally replaced it. Very bad PR.
GeorgeS
10-15-2007, 12:14 AM
Am I correct in assumeing that Only the 2nd Gen Rear Shocks go bad. ??
I do not recall hearing much about 1st Gen Rear Shocks leaking.
Can a 1st gen rear be used on a 2ng gen ?? Maby stupid question, but was just wondering.
Just an observation, but could adding air to these things at the gas station air hose, be blowing the Seals ??
ediddy
10-15-2007, 11:57 AM
Had mine replaced at 18,000 miles. It was leaking oil.
jbird
11-18-2007, 10:03 PM
On my 2003, my first shock went bad at 17,000 miles and my second one went bad this summer with about 25,000 miles on the new improved shock with the vent hose. So I am on my 3rd shock now and have 46,000 miles on bike. Both were replaced under warranty. Jbird
Bartley
11-18-2007, 10:10 PM
Replaced mine on my '04 at about 20000 miles. Hope this new design by Yamaha lasts for a good long time.:fingers crossed:
hipshot
11-18-2007, 11:01 PM
Am I correct in assumeing that Only the 2nd Gen Rear Shocks go bad. ??
I do not recall hearing much about 1st Gen Rear Shocks leaking.
Can a 1st gen rear be used on a 2ng gen ?? Maby stupid question, but was just wondering.
Just an observation, but could adding air to these things at the gas station air hose, be blowing the Seals ??
fair question, george!
my '86, holds air "forever", with NO leaks!
maybe "newer, isn't better"!
just jt
Rocket
11-18-2007, 11:27 PM
Am I correct in assumeing that Only the 2nd Gen Rear Shocks go bad. ??
I do not recall hearing much about 1st Gen Rear Shocks leaking.
Can a 1st gen rear be used on a 2ng gen ?? Maby stupid question, but was just wondering.
Just an observation, but could adding air to these things at the gas station air hose, be blowing the Seals ??
The problem seems to be mostly with the oil seals & not the air portion, but the station air still could be a factor.
fair question, george!
my '86, holds air "forever", with NO leaks!
maybe "newer, isn't better"!
just jt
No problem with mine, but I will be installing a new spring on mine regardless.
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