Motorcycle Repair: rear suspension, rear shocks, spring replacement

Question
Chris, I have a 1982 Suzuki SP500. The rear shocks/springs are quite worn. It doesn't bottom out too often. New shocks are quite pricey, so I was thinking about just replacing the springs. Would this help at all? I don't know how much of a role each of the componants play in supporting the bike. Thanks!

Answer
Hi Alan.

With the rear shocks, it is a fairly simple system.  It consists of a sealed cylinder with a piston that moves through  the fluid (or, sometimes compressed air or other gas) at a fixed rate.  This is assisted with the springs that are attatched to the outside of the cylinder.  They also compress and spring back at a fixed rate.

 Replacing the springs will, most often, help but make sure that you have all of the correct tools to do the spring replacement.  The repair manual has a list of what tools you need for all repairs on the bike.  Single-purpose tools will be marked accordingly.

Good luck and ride safe.
FALCON