Harsh suspension??

[spm0912]

2012 twin cam GS (ESA) with 20k miles. Bike has started to be very harsh at the back for the last couple of months, doesn't matter what mode it's in and yes they do all seem to work as there is a big difference between sport and comfort. No oil leaking and the shock seems to move OK. Initially I put it down to the crap state of the roads but I think that has just highlighted the problem more. I've done a search and read about WESA, Ohlins, tyres, pressures et al but another recurring possible culprit was possibly worn pivot bearings but I can't find a single post where someone has had them checked and found them to be at fault.

It's still in warranty, has anyone with a similar problem had it resolved at their dealers? Or are worn shocks/ bearings wear items sir?

Thanks

 

[Beemerman59]

2012 twin cam GS (ESA) with 20k miles. Bike has started to be very harsh at the back for the last couple of months, doesn't matter what mode it's in and yes they do all seem to work as there is a big difference between sport and comfort. No oil leaking and the shock seems to move OK. Initially I put it down to the crap state of the roads but I think that has just highlighted the problem more. I've done a search and read about WESA, Ohlins, tyres, pressures et al but another recurring possible culprit was possibly worn pivot bearings but I can't find a single post where someone has had them checked and found them to be at fault.

It's still in warranty, has anyone with a similar problem had it resolved at their dealers? Or are worn shocks/ bearings wear items sir?

Thanks

Identical problems with mine and also had thought about pivot pins/tyres etc, primarily because of the lack of oil leaks, however, the shocks were shot. With the bike being nearly 5 and 30K on the clock I opted to fix the problem with Wilburs WESA. As yours is in warranty and under 30K you could get them replaced for free although be prepared for the same to happen somepoint in the future. The WESA units are simply better shocks anyway so an alternative is a complete upgrade but will cost you £1,275 or so for front & rear.

 

[spm0912]

Cheers beemerman, I think it it the shock but wanted to see if there were any other possibilities first. Will see what the dealer says

 

[Blobby]

Yep, sounds like rear shock. I've had both front and rear shocks replaced on June 11 GSA, both done under warranty. Front one leaked so v obvious. Rear looked totally normal but it had no shock-absorbing properties left in it. It was like riding a pogo stick bouncing me around and it would bottom out over big bumps. Different ESA settings made no difference. Took to BMW and they bounced bike up and down and agreed it was way too bouncy so replaced rear shock and loaned me a K1300S in interim...which was a lot of fun. GSA 23k miles on the clock.

 

[Bendy toy]

The used aftermarket WP I had on another bike was great but when it went off the action was initially harsh then it would kick back after hitting a bump.

I asked Revs Racing (UK Wilbers importer) about rebuilding the BMW shocks they said it's not possible. It might be worth trying a bike suspension rebuild specialist to have a look. They commonly fit gas valves and refurbish "sealed" shocks. However, if parts like seals or shims are not available, it might not be a goer.

 

[spm0912]

Thanks, will try the dealers first as its in warranty. If they dig their heels in and say its fair wear and tear I might have to look at the new LC!!!

 

[cookie]

Thanks, will try the dealers first as its in warranty. If they dig their heels in and say its fair wear and tear I might have to look at the new LC!!!

that'll show 'em

 

[spm0912]

that'll show 'em

Fair point

But I am looking for an excuse to test ride one and if I like it I need some leverage with the wife to justify another bike. £1200 on new suspension might swing it!!

 

[cookie]

Fair point

But I am looking for an excuse to test ride one and if I like it I need some leverage with the wife to justify another bike. £1200 on new suspension might swing it!!

sounds like a plan. going by what i read on here, a test ride on an LC mostly ends in a sale. go for it

 

[Katnip]

worn shocks?

Just a point here, but it may be advisable to get the problem looked at not by where you may think of buying a new LC but another dealer. Part exchange prices are bad enough without them knowing the suspensions had it. Or maybe you're too honest to do that!!

 

[Bendy toy]

I just googled these guys but MX is a small world so nobody can afford to do a bad job. Somebody like this should be able to degas the shock strip and clean the internals re-oil and regas it. One shock will probably cost about 10% of a full Wilbers setup and keep an old shock going a bit longer.