The Rear Shock Upgrade Thread

[Shakey]

The Daytona shock hasn't changed since it was introduced that I'm aware of. A used rear shock off of a low mileage Daytona isn't an issue and is definitely much less expensive than a new item, Triumph, or otherwise. My only real concern is changing the steering angle as a result of the rear shock being a tad longer than the stock Street Triple shock. The only sure way to tell about stability is to perform the swap and run her at speed. So far there have been no reports of issues from Jamie, or others that have made the change.

[Margrave30]

Just wondering - I SO want one of these - but would switching out the suspension from the get -go be a good idea? I'll need to occasionally hit an interstate that's about 65-70mph (which means I might UNofficially have to do a bit faster just to live...) for about 4 hours a day (2hours there, and 2hours back...). Would switching the rear suspension out help? What are some other things I might do to help with going at this speed for this amount of time each day?

Margrave

[Jon.sb]

I am seriously considering the Daytona rear shock but from new and 500 miles on I ride at 6,000 rpm (which is around 70 mph) almost everywhere.

So I would suggest that you buy the bike, ride it and figure out whether you need to replace the shock or not.

On highways (dual carriageways) regardless of the speed I go, the standard shock is more than adequate but on backroads or roads where the surface quality is very poor you feel the limitations of the shock but all you need to do is ride a bit more slowly and not push the limits (yours and/or the bikes) to keep everything the right way up.

Most of the last 500 miles has been in poor weather and on some pretty bad roads but roads that I know well. As a result I have a good idea where/when to push harder and when to take it easy.

[Shakey]

Originally Posted by Margrave30

Just wondering - I SO want one of these - but would switching out the suspension from the get -go be a good idea? I'll need to occasionally hit an interstate that's about 65-70mph (which means I might UNofficially have to do a bit faster just to live...) for about 4 hours a day (2hours there, and 2hours back...). Would switching the rear suspension out help? What are some other things I might do to help with going at this speed for this amount of time each day?

Margrave

If the road surfaces are good I don't think changing out the rear shock will make any difference, especially riding one up. I've had my bike up to 85 on the interstate and it was smooth sailing as far as the suspension goes. Mind you the wind blast requires you hang on at high speeds and that's with the fly screen and visor installed. Jamie has probably had more experience with his Street Triple in various conditions than anyone on the board at this time. You might direct your inquiry to him. He has made the change to the Daytona mono shock as well.

[vega 0]

I have done 1700 miles so far, and the shock isn't any better, but I am used to it now. Unless I see one going dirt cheap, I won't be bothering with it.

Vega compensates for lack-luster shock performance

[Old Scratcher]

(Relocated from another thread.)

I've been very impressed with the Qualifiers, both for grip & wear.
I know that there are grippier tyres out there, but their softer compounds would make them wear too quickly for my liking.

I think the rear shock is the thing that most needs an upgrade.
It works well on smooth surfaces, but as soon as the road gets choppy & twisty, it's easy to make it skip about.
What are the best options for the rear shock?
Has anyone upgraded yet? (silly question) How many have upgraded so far?

[wozza.ie]

(Some) people swapping the rear shock out for the stock daytona unit with good results

[Old Scratcher]

Yeah I figured that would be the easiest fix too.
If the stock shock had adjustable pre-load, like the Daytona, it'd be easy to dial the shakes & shudders out of the rear.

It's a shame Triumph chooses this area to cut costs.
They did the same thing with the Bonnie line.
& it cost me a grand to get my Scrambler fully sorted.
I'd be happier if they cut back on the bling, & gave us top-grade bike bits.

Oh well, at least I don't have to do the forks on this one as well.
That's going to make the ordeal a bit cheaper, though no less painfull (I don't like throwing away unworn-out parts).

[Old Scratcher]

I looked on the Daytona forum to see what shocks they were upgrading to, & I like the sound of the Maxton set up.
They customise each shock according to the customer's requirements.
So I've sent them an enquiry to see what they can come up with for me.
I'll keep you posted.

[DaveM]

Originally Posted by Old Scratcher

I looked on the Daytona forum to see what shocks they were upgrading to, & I like the sound of the Maxton set up.
They customise each shock according to the customer's requirements.
So I've sent them an enquiry to see what they can come up with for me.
I'll keep you posted.

Old Scratcher,
if I could make a suggestion that you contact RAD Shockie repairs here in Brisbane about a rear shock.

They service the majority of M/C shops in Australia and ARE experts in their field.

I have had my rear stock Showa rebuilt (supposedly not rebuildable) about 30,000kms ago.
It was rebuilt re valved and regassed etc to suit my weight and agressive riding. I have maintained the stock spring but have a 5mm spacer.
this has raised my Sprint's rear by around 15mm.
My bike handles brilliantly on all bumpy bends on high and low speed corners.

Wotzit cost me? just under $200.00 AUD that was with my dealer sending them my shock.

I frequently have guys on sports bikes that are amazed at how my heavy Sprint (I am a big guy too) handles bumpy bends.

They could give you Aussie guys here very good advice. I have never heard of a Triumph or other brand owner not satisfied with their work.
Look in the yellow pages they don't have a web site that I know of.

DaveM