How to check rear shock life ?

[Tubz1983]

What is the best way to test if the rear shock is knackered? I had a pillion and as soon as he got in the back it sunk right down ? Is that normal ?!!

[rhinoeli]

You are aware of the spring preload is adjustable right?

[Tubz1983]

Ah, I was under the impression they were fixed like the forks?

[anutz]

you should have a C spanner in your tool kit to adjust this, there is also an extension bar in there as its neigh impossible without the leverage to move it, mine was very stiff indeed....

[darrsi]

If it's the original shock on a 16-17 year old bike then chances are it's seen better days.
Mine leaked, and i was riding on the spring for a while, which is like riding in the wet with a rear bald tyre.

 

[anutz]

i intend to replace mine with an R6 shock with the help of Kebab19 on this forum when i get the money - and have lost some weight.....not sure which will happen first....if i have no money then maybe i won't eat.... 

[Tubz1983]

Increased the pre-load a couple of notches so il see how that feels, no extention needed as it wasn't too stiff really

[paulchucky]

original shock is poooooh
upgrade is a must 

[sinto]

Increased the pre-load a couple of notches so il see how that feels, no extention needed as it wasn't too stiff really

Sounds a bit dodgy if you didn't use the extension handle to help move it especially if you increased the tension on the spring
That's maybe why it went down so far in the first place, I'd get that checked out

[paulchucky]

if your anywhere near me pal i`ll check it out for you