Rear shock upgrade

[Drifter2406]

I have been looking at the Nitro Stainless Steel Shocks from Hagon, good price and I've used Hagon in the past, has anyone used these on their 1200 Vmax and if so what did you think of them or is there a better alternative for similar money? Thanks in advance for any info.

 

[Fire-medic]

Alf Hagon, what a story he has! If those are gas-charged and stainless steel, and for a 600 lb bike, that should work.

The usual USA replacement is Progressive Suspension (P.S.) 412 series shocks which are < $300 and price dependent on finishes. Search online for these. Star Rider Performance has them for $345.

The better P.S. shock is the 444, and Star Rider Performance has them for just under $800

https://starriderperformance.com/444-series-shocks-85-07-all/

From the above link:
Progressive's 444 Series Shocks are the ultimate suspension upgrade for your 1985-2007 Yamaha Vmax.

444 Series Shocks feature a proprietary patented Frequency Sensing Technology (FST) that has the unique ability to dynamically adjust damping as you ride; what this means is whether you’re hitting the small or big bumps in the road, the shock distributes oil through ports accordingly to soak up the hit making for an ultimately comfortable ride. A top mount threaded preload adjuster allows for fine-tuning with a simple twist of the cap. 444 Series shocks are available in 3 configurations: Standard Weight, Heavy-duty (250+ lbs.) and Super Heavy Duty (Touring Models only - 350+ lbs.).

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There is also the P.S. 430 series, at around $600. See the Star Rider Performance website for info on those or P.S. directly.

There are other suppliers, like Penske and Ohlins, but you are talking $$$$.

Race-Tech sells these, $1,500!

https://racetech.com/

They have fork tubes, fork cartridge emulators, fork rebuild pieces, and much more.

 

[Traumahawk]

Not on point but I do have 444s on my 07. It is a night a day difference.

 

[Drifter2406]

Thanks for the reply and the info, I will have a look.

 

[VMAXXIMUM]

I also run 444’s however my track bike has had the suspension set up professionally by computrack Boston ( now retired and Very well respected in my neck of the woods) and let’s just say he was less than enthusiastic regarding the 444’s and progressive suspension in general. For my budget and use they’re great but if money is less of a concern there are much better options.