Xs650 standard replacement shocks with OEM triumph Norton?

I would like a black spring shock but I dont want to run a chrome chainguard, would prefer to stay in black.
 
OK, so can I assume a special chainguard has a larget shock cut-out when compared to standard models?
Correct, because "Special" shocks are shorter than standard shocks AND have a longer spring with a lower adjustable ramp position.
 
I would like a black spring shock but I dont want to run a chrome chainguard, would prefer to stay in black.
Then you will need to cut a larger window in the standard black chain guard. Or use different shocks from a earlier era Triumph.
 
Norton7d for your 76 the IKON's may be a better choice.
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Holy smokes, for that price I could by a set of the triumps shocks and a chrome guard and pay to have the guard powdercoated black!
 
Holy smokes, for that price I could by a set of the triumps shocks and a chrome guard and pay to have the guard powdercoated black!
Yup, exactly. I'm picking up these Triumph shocks for $100 each set as takeoffs. +shipping this time.
 
First set was brushed (black paint removed) 2017 Speed Twin.
This set is factory chrome. Bonneville T120 :cool:
 
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Yamaha shock bushing mod, take 2
Since the cheap availability of take off Triumph shocks is a real option, This may help somebody with the necessary lower bushing mod. Simply push out the Yamaha shock bushings with appropriate sized sockets.
To turn the diameter down to the required size of say, .636"to.641" has worked well again here. A rather special hand ground lathe turning tool is needed to accurately turn rubber to a desired size. Through practice over the years with odd materials I have come up with a tool that cuts very well. Pics are for those of you who are interested in trying this. I was able to easily hit my "nominal" size goal within a couple thousandths. So the modified bushings will be pushed in firm and tight with rubber glue to lubricate and stick em there permanently
;)
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I'll post how to make the very thin needed Nylon/Teflon bushings for the top mount too in a few days.
-RT
 

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Found a list with the shock lengths of modern Truimphs:

Triumph Shocks:

2002 Bonneville America/Speedmaster stock length: 320mm.
2001-2008 Standard Bonneville (spoke wheels) stock length: 340mm.
2002-2015* T100 Bonneville stock length: 340mm.
2009-2015* Standard/SE Bonneville (mag wheels) stock length: 330mm.
2004-2015* Thruxton & Scrambler stock length: 360mm.
2016+ Bonneville T100 stock length: 350mm
2016+ Street Twin 900 stock length: 340mm
2016+ Street Cup 900 stock length: 360mm
2016+ Bonneville T120 stock length: 350mm
2016+ Thruxton 1200 stock length: 385mm

This is potentially a very interesting modification, especially for restorations as the shock looks almost identical to those fitted to the XS650's. The added bonus is they are available dirt cheap!!

I'm considering going with the 330mm shocks as they will be close to the 324mm of the standard shocks on a 76.

Just wondering would the more upright angle on the standards cause any clearance issues. :umm:
 
2016+ Street Twin 900 stock length: 340mm

2016+ Bonneville T120 stock length: 350mm
Thanks Beano ! That is good data that I didn't have. I will say that the SpeedTwin 340mm seems to be real good for a "Special" frame.
Since "Standard" stock shocks are slightly longer than "Special" shocks, I'm betting the Bonneville T120 350mm shocks will work out fine on my 78E Standard.
I bought them not knowing the length as the seller didn't know either..
-R
 
Beano, and other Standard owners need be aware that if your XS has the left side frame grab handle for center stand use, there is a likely interference with the large diameter Triumph top shock mount. I do see slight interference in the fitment on my 78E there and have yet to determine how much shock eye material I will remove with an end mill of slightly larger diameter than the grab loop size.
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@Machine I dont suppose you know off hand the OD of the top mount?

I've found a pair I like the look of and have made the seller an offer on ebay, hope I can make it work now!

Edit: Just went out to measure and the top mount of the shocks I have fitted (not sure if theyre standard or not) have an O.D of 33mm, with approx 3mm space between it and the grab handle.
 
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1.640" is the biggest diameter.
Depending on who welded the grab loop where and how accurately that was repeated is my next concern. I could remove a slight bit of steel from the grab loop or the shock eye or both ?
Probably just the shock eye as it is quite beefy.
Edit, I see your 33mm and that equals 1.3"
1.64" equals 41.65mm
 

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I have a set on my '75 that I scored cheap on Ebait. Under $40 shipped if I remember correctly. I don't recall what year they were off, but they measure 13 3/8" or 340mm. No clearance issues on mine. I just replaced the top bushing with the one out of a pair of Mike's cheapo Monza shocks that I had on hand. I have roughly 1/8" clearance on the rear grab bar. I cannot give a ride report yet as I just got it plated and insured this week. I like the stance though.
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Dang :yikes:
Willis showed up with his Beautiful 75 ! Wowza that is nice.
I think those shocks of yours are of an earlier era Triumph shock type. Good find. They do really look authentic on that Yamaha. Can you describe the lower shock mount fitment? Was it a bolt on?
Thanks, -R
 
It’s been a while since I mounted them. I only had to swap one bushing out though ant to be honest I’m not sure if it was too or bottom. It was well over a year ago. I’ll see if I can get some more info though
 
After pulling them off I now recall how they fit. I did not replace the bushings on these. I was confused with the Hammerhead’s on my 78. Top mount is a direct fit.
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Bottom mount bushing is too big by a couple mm. I used a thin plastic sleeve that came with the Mike’s shocks to fill the gap on the shouldered bolt.
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Excellent pics Willis thank you :cheers:

Well thats my mind made up anyway, should have a set in the next couple of weeks.
 
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