450r rear shock on 400ex +1 swinger....?

[DragonGunner]

I believe the 04-05 450R rear shock is a little shorter than a 400EX. But then they went to a longer swing arm in 06 on. So is it safe to assume it has a longer shock also? I have a +1 swinger on the hybrid EX but put a gold valve dual rate on the shock for the added travel length. I was thinking a longer 450r rear shock would be a cheaper way to go if I get another +1 swinger for my 406EX....Any input why this would work or not work. Thanks

[Blodg]

I don't know for sure but I bet the 06+ rear shock is the same as the 04-05. Most of the time with a longer swingarm the distance to the shock mount remains the same. The swingarm is only extended to the rear of the shock mount. I just installed a longer swingarm and the shock location/length did not change. You will, however, have increased travel even with the same shock due to the increased ratio of the longer arm.

[dustin_j]

When Honda changed the 450R swingarm length (06+ is longer), the length was increased between pivot and linkage mount. This is why 06+ 450R linkages are so much longer. Remember, Honda increased swingarm length on 06+ but kept wheelbase the same. They also increased rear shock length (06+ is slightly longer than a 400ex shock) and decreased spring rate. The lower spring rate will be too soft for a 400EX, especially if used with an extended swingarm. I would recommend rebuilding the 400EX shock if you want an improved ride; I am also a big fan of GT Thunder linkages for Hondas.

[DragonGunner]

Thanks for the info guys.