Rear shock for 1985 kx500

[Zack]

It’s me again,

Looking for remedies or even ideas for a rear shock on my 1985 kx500.

My current shock is blown- likely not a good candidate for a rebuild as the shaft is pitted terribly.

The 1985 kx500 shock has eyes on either end. It is 17” center-to-center by my best attempt to measure in situ. And is remote mount reservoir.

Has anyone ever replaced one with something newer/ better/ more available?

It appears that the replacement shock need not be remote mount reservoir- there seems to be room for a piggy back reservoir. I also -think- I could go 1/2” either side of 17” center-to-center for length. I could possibly get by with a Clevis on one end as well?? Not as sure on this.

I have seen a couple late model dirt bike rear shocks on eBay that may work but am leery about gambling $150+ on a maybe.

Let’s discuss

[Zack]

I have found an acceptable replacement for my 1985 kx500 rear shock. I used a rear shock from a 1986 kx250. Kawasaki part numbers are different for each shock assembly but having both shocks side by side, I can’t tell any difference at all. Same length, same remote reservoir style, even appears to be same spring.

[sandblaster]

Good to know..

[Bengt Weil]

Guessing the valving must be different...?

[KXDINO]

 Going by race tech the 86 has a 46mm  shock body and 85 model has 40mm and a different spring series so check diameter of shock spring the same or trial fit ,The 85 and 86 models were very similar,and should bolt in,  the part numbers are different because of the bigger shock body, seeing the 86 has a bigger piston in it , it should work better when set up . The valving will be different , i would ride it first and see what it like then revalve it to your taste.If you decide to revalve it check seal head for slop as you can still buy these new from rt , should be good.

[Zack]

Thanks for the extra info kxdino!

The shock diameter difference I am sure is true. My ‘85 shock is bent and came out of the frame quite easily- I thought it came out so easily because of it being bent actually. I had a little trouble to get the ‘86 shock back in through the frame actually. I originally thought it was because the replacement shock wasn’t bent and so was hitting frame when installing. Now I’m sure it was because of the extra 6mm body/spring diameter. To be clear, the ‘86 kx250 shock fits nicely in the ‘85 kx500 frame.
My original shock was so poor that anything would have been an upgrade. But truly the ‘86 kx250 is proving to be just fine for me.
I have tried to upload a couple photos of my kx500 build-up but I can’t ever seem to get it right. Maybe I cant get the photos to a small enough size? The page says “the upload folder is full”.

*Reminder* I am but a recreational rider and likely couldn’t tell the difference between a great shock and a ‘just ok’ shock.

[KXDINO]

Glad to try to help , if you can Zack try to service the shock if you havent allready done so , keep the damping working as it should and reduces wear ,

[Steelio]

The french hillclimbers use ohlins, far as i know their the only aftermarket that will fit the old kx, clevis swaps right over.