Rear shocks

How do you adjust them? Lower and raise them?.....81 xj650 maxim

 

You adjust preload by rotating the lower ramped collar (the tool for this is in the factory toolkit). There is no provision for changing ride-height.

 

I don't have that tool

 

A substitute can be made from round bar of the proper diameter. Fatory toolkits come up on Ebay regularly, and aren't expensive. You could also consider upgrading to new shocks.

 

Any shocks work?

 

AS long as you have the right length, the right size eyes, the right depth of the eyes, and the overall diameters of the shock springs, perches, and covers aren't too big................

 

Old Honda shocks have a clevis on one end, be wary when shopping to stay away from Honda-compatible ones.

 

Yup, that's why I was that specific......

 

How would one go about finding out the proper specs needed for a shock replacement/ swap?

 

Measure yours

 

Stock shock length is 12.5" eye-to-eye.
Most common upgrade is to the Progressive Suspension 412 series shocks.
Part number with standard rate springs is 412-4205, and with heavy duty springs it's 412-4206.

 

I have these... http://www.dimecitycycles.com/11-inch-black-shorty-eye-to-eye-rear-motorcycle-shock-absorbers.html. Good if you want to lower it, you will have to take some length off of your kickstand at this length, about 1" IIRC. Believe they also sell a stock length and something in between.

 

I like that place. I have gotten a lot of stuff from there ordered and also going in.