350X rear shocks- replace or rebuild???

[az350x]

I've decided after spending some time in the proximity of newer equipment with upgraded suspensions, I should probably spend some money and rejuvenate and/or upgrade the suspensions on both my 350X's and also my Tri-Z. At almost 20 years old, I can only assume that the front and rear suspensions on all these bikes are a bit tired. I understand that I can have my rear shocks rebuilt and recharged- should I do that or replace them with something aftermarket or off of a newer bike that will bolt on? I'm NOT interested in spending $3-400 a pop for Works or Ohlin, etc. I'm more in the $150/each price range to rebuild or replace with something used but newer off of a more modern bike.

I've read the front fork thread in here started by the infamous MrATC, and it sounds like a good idea for the front end. Anyone have suggestions for the rear shocks???

[250sx]

from what I've heard it's about impossible to upgrade the stock one w/o a full-on rebuild. some say they aren't rebuildable & others say that they are. I don't know. I did have mine recharged & it made a big difference, but the seals in mine were ok. I'm going to end up with the $700 elka on mine it looks like. :cool:

[MR ATC]

there are severall options for a 350X rear shock. the decision is based more on money then anything else.

1. a typical rebuild cost about 150.00 and it will only get you as good as stock. and the stock 350X shock is weak for serious riders.

2. the next step is a re valve. this cost about an additional 50-75.00 from the 150.00 rebuild. basically this just sets up the stock shock for your personal riding style and weight. it is a decent improvment over stock.

3. upgraded spring about 85.00. however to get the most out of it a revalve is recomended.

4. a "heart" transplant this is basically a new piston and valving stack set up for you. the piston has greater flow and efficaintcy (sp) cost is about 175.00 avalible from "works" performance

5. a "guts" upgrade includes the heart transplant piston as well as longer and bigger shock shaft and complete shock internals.
this is the same set up i use on my "stock" 350X's along with a 850lb rate spring. with this setup you basically have the same thing as a works shock or others it just uses your stock shock body. cost is about 380.00 with this shock i can do 65' table tops without even bottoming. this set up is as good as any shock on a modern mxer

6. new shock depending on what one you choose 450.00-850.00

[TES]

MR ATC, Works is quoting me $489 for a complete rebuild with a new spring ... do you think the price went up that much since December? They stated for a stock 350x without a spring would be $329 ... $389 for a 350x w/ a +4 swingarm ... springs are an additional $90 if they have it in stock or $100 if they have to order it. This would be a tough bill to swallow after I've already spent over .... who knows .... close to $1000 to rebuild the rear end. (i.e. Durablue +4 axle and locking nut, magnum tapered bearing carrier, sidewinder sprockets and chain, extened swingarm welding, pivot bearings, brake bracket welding, new brake pads, stainless brake lines, etc.) Damn .... what a money pit.

[MR ATC]

i'm not sure about thiere current prices being that high for just a rebuild. i think there quating you the transplant GUTS kit

i've always rebuilt my own shocks and use differant springs then thiers.

what i do use from then is thier GUTS kit that only cost 360.00 installed.

as for springs PROGRESSIVE SUSPENSION has one for about 80.00 that has a 850lb rate.


regaurdless i feel your pain. i usually put well over 2000.00 in my rear ends alone