Rear shocks swap on GS750, chain tension issues?

[Ratabilly]

It's finally getting warmer outside so i can start working on the bike again. 8)

I'm swapping the stocker shocks on my '78 GS750 for 14.5" eye to clevis'. I read on a couple different forums about chain tension issues like the chain being loose because of longer shock travel. Others say it doesn't cause any noticable change.

Also read about difference in handling with the taller shocks and kickstand issues, but people seemed to have mixed feelings about that too.

Long story short, is there anything else i should know/take into consideration about doing the swap?

 

[Ratabilly]

Well anyway,

I learned the hard way that 14.5"s won't fit the stock pre-'80 GS750 frames.

There is only 13.5" travel before the swing arm interferes with the rear peg holders, so im going to have to slightly modify or remove part of the peg holders.

Anybody sporting some 14.5" rear shocks that ran into other problems such as handling and chain tension?

 

[providedrailroad]

Sorry, I don't have much advice for you, but I do have the same year and model GS as you!!! Do you have any pictures?

I would try asking at GSresources maybe.

 

[Ratabilly]

here's my intro thread, pics are all there.

http://www.dotheton.com/forum/index.php?topic=30690

 

[crazypj]

The correct way to adjust final drive chain after you've been screwing with suspension or swing arm is to compress suspension so the rear axle center, swing arm pivot center and output shaft center are all in a straight line.
Then set chain slack to 3/8" (10mm)
Chain may be very loose when whel is fully extended, if that happens, you fit a spring loaded tensioner to bottom run
DO NOT ADJUST OUT SLACK, something WILL break as supnsion moves