How to tell if shocks are tired/shot

[Padowan]

So my 2001 850gs with 27 on is running the original shocks and I think the ride is not really what you would call plush, it's ok, but feels a bit harsh on bumps. The pre load is correct for rider weight and I've messed around with the damping without much improvement.

So how can you tell if shocks are shot and need replacing or a rebuild? Other than feel, is there a more objective way to diagnose them?

thanks!

 

[snelly]

So my 2001 850gs with 27 on is running the original shocks and I think the ride is not really what you would call plush, it's ok, but feels a bit harsh on bumps. The pre load is correct for rider weight and I've messed around with the damping without much improvement.

So how can you tell if shocks are shot and need replacing or a rebuild? Other than feel, is there a more objective way to diagnose them?

thanks!

Turn all your settings to soft and press down on the rear.Feel for how easy it is to press, but more lmportantly,look for how quickly it rises again.Now turn every thing to max and repeat.If your shock damping is working the rear will rise noticeably slower.knowing what you are feeling at both ends of the suspension range wil give you bench marks for fine tuning.

 

[phooey]

So my 2001 850gs with 27 on is running the original shocks and I think the ride is not really what you would call plush, it's ok, but feels a bit harsh on bumps. The pre load is correct for rider weight and I've messed around with the damping without much improvement.

So how can you tell if shocks are shot and need replacing or a rebuild? Other than feel, is there a more objective way to diagnose them?

thanks!

What does the tester say when you have it mot'd ?
My 08, 63,000 mile 1200 gsa is still running originals without any problems.

 

[adventuredon]

My 08, 63,000 mile 1200 gsa is still running originals without any problems.

How do you know....

 

[richie]

How do you know....

sure, that is what the MOT is for......

 

[JayC]

Look for traces of oil/scoring/pitting on the hard chrome rod. If it has oil on the rod the seal is leaking and the damping is reduced, until eventually there won't be any, damping

 

[Timolgra]

Does the rear 'wallow' when cornering over white lines etc.?

 

[Mr K]

OE shocks are only designed to work for the buyer....

 

[Padowan]

Does the rear 'wallow' when cornering over white lines etc.?

Not particularly, it just feels a bit harsh/sharp when hitting smaller bumps. Compared to yme wife's Dakar that feels like it's floating along...

Regarding the MOT comments, the tester might be able to tell me if something is unsafe, but as far as performing optimally I don't really think that's what they're trying to identify!