Shocks & Coil Overs
About Shocks & Coil Overs
Rear shocks and coil-overs control how the back of a motorcycle rides over bumps and how it carries a passenger or luggage. Riders shop here to replace worn or leaking shocks, to fit a stiffer or adjustable unit, or to change ride height.
The decisions are length, rate and adjustment. Length is measured eye to eye in inches, such as the 11, 12, 13 and 14 inch listings, and it affects ride height and geometry, so match it to your model unless you intend a change. Spring rate should suit your weight and load. Heavy-duty units suit riders who carry passengers or luggage. Some shocks have preload adjustment, some have ride-height adjustment, and piggyback designs add an oil reservoir. Gas-charged shocks and coil-over springs are both listed. Twin-shock bikes need a matched pair. A shock service kit is available for rebuildable designs, and replacement shock springs are listed too.
Brands listed here include FOX, FACTORY CONNECTION, Drag Specialties, RACE TECH and OHLINS. Pick your bike in the Ride Finder at the top of the page. To change ride height, see Lowering & Lift Kits, and for related parts see Suspension Bearings, Bushings & Seals and Fork Suspension & Parts. The whole group is Suspension & Handling.
FAQs on motorcycle shocks and coil-overs
How do I choose the right shock length?
Match the eye-to-eye length of your stock shock, which is in the manual or can be measured, unless you want to change ride height on purpose. A longer or shorter shock changes the stance and geometry, so use a listing made for your model.
What does shock preload do?
Preload sets how much the spring is compressed before the bike's weight is on it, which adjusts ride height and sag. It does not change the spring rate. Adjust it as the shock maker describes, for your weight and load.
Do I need adjustable damping on my shocks?
It is a useful extra if your load or riding changes a lot, because you can tune the ride. Many riders do well with a good non-adjustable shock matched to their weight, so choose adjustability only if you will use it.
Should I replace both rear shocks at once?
On a bike with two rear shocks, yes. Replace both with a matched pair, so the rear end rides evenly and one side does not carry more load. A single mono-shock needs only the one.
Can a worn shock be rebuilt?
Some shocks can, using a service kit with new seals and oil. Other shocks are sealed and are replaced rather than rebuilt. Check with the shock maker for your model, and have a shop do the work if the shock is gas-charged.
