shocks

[z rider2]

hey, i'm lookin to upgrade my o4 suspension, and i can get some 06 450r, 05 z400, or 06 ltr450 shocks for roughly the same price, which ones are better for dune and trail riding, anything is better than the stockers that are on there right now, but what are the pros and cons of each? thanks guys

[montycarlo]

I have an 05 Z400- which came with the better piggyback/adjustable front shocks. I race XC on a budget and am using stock a-arms. I had all 3 shocks revalved on the inside and re-sprung on the outside by Colby at C & D Racing- I'm sure you can find a link to them somewhere on this page! :D They are a triple rate front now but no preload adjustment. That was eliminated because they have sag built into them according to rider/conditions blah blah blah. The rear shock still has threaded adjuster, but it controls rear ride height not preload. All 3 shocks were done (almost 1 year ago) for under $700. Took a week including shipping to get them back. :cool: I think it is advertised as a TCS conversion, but the big spring on the rear shock says Eibach on it. At any rate, this is a conversion with quality parts.

If you intend to keep stock geometry then I recommend you consider getting your hands on some 05/newer front shocks and do this mod. Your 04 rear shock should be the same as newer. If you want to go for the big package for new shocks and arms- then get out your big wallet.

Here is a little before and after:
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a45/Montycarlo/stockshocks.jpg
http://i8.photobucket.com/albums/a45/Montycarlo/convertedshocks.jpg

[drnez]

I dont see the point in buying $450 stock shocks (just a rough guesstimate, I sold my front stockers for $300, figured the rear is worth half that, so $450 it is) only to spend another $700 to have them revalved. At that point you're spending almost $1200 on shocks. You can get a nice set of Elka's for that price. Or any other aftermarket shock for that matter.

I'm not saying that the revalve is not a good idea, it IS a good idea for people on a budget, that already have fully adjustable (05-06) shocks.

[erac4019]

Where can you get all 3 Elkas for $1200.00? Last I checked triple rates w/ res are around that price just for the fronts!!!

[drnez]

ebay

[TampaBoy813]

Originally posted by drnez
ebay I can tell you my quad elka's were a hell of a lot more then 1200 for all 3....

[drnez]

Well, the guy is obviously on a budget, And he's not going to spend $1200 on some rebuilt stockers, I sure as hell wouldnt. Elka fronts with ressies are about $700 or so. The rear is about $800. so maybe Elka is a bit over the top. Anyways, since his rear shock is rebuildable, he could send that to be rebuilt, and just buy some aftermarket fronts. He would still come out ahead of the $1200 ticket on getting all stock take-offs and rebuilding them. roughly $300 to rebuild the rear, and about $500 for a set of works up front with ressies.

[TampaBoy813]

he should just buy them used and send them to GT thunder..and have them valved for his riding style & Size...

PS: I Would sell all 3 of mine NEW for $1500...

[erac4019]

You can buy a used pair of 05-06 Z400 shocks for about $150-200(ebay/z400central) GT Thunder will do the following:
Package price for Service, revalve, extend travel, and respring with progressive spring - $350.00(front)
Package price for rear kit including Service, revalve, respring, shorten body, and link - $385.00(rear)
Total using your stock rear shock would be in the ballpark of $935.00 from GT, that is a very good price for all 3 shocks set up exactly for the way you ride and your weight etc.... If you're not in a big hurry you can wait around for a really good deal on some used 05-06 Z fronts and maybe even save a little more


:D

[redrunner]

I had C&D do my stockers when I bought the quad and they are great. I do plan on the rear being redone with a link by GT Thunder this winter.
You have got tons of options, check ebay, check the for sale section here I am sure you can get something pretty decent for trail riding. Hell I loved my used Works on the old 300.
I will say that for recreational riding you can't beat a good suspension..it is a must!