f4i rear shock mod questions 85 fj11

[mtc]

for those who have done it, mine came today... 24000 miles

i don't even know what the measurements are for the stock  rear shock

but before i tear into the bike , i would like a few clarifications, and i thank you in advance for the assistance.


1) with the new lower bearings and seals( sizes specified in another thread), do i just take the old stock FJ lower bushing out and stick it in the Honda lower bearing and bolt it in? or is there and width consideration?  does anyone know the lower bolt diameter stock for the FJ11 1985?

2) since the tire will touch the ground after the install, how much will i have to move the bike up to clear the tire? i read 10mm, but want to confirm, if ever i use the stand, what size piece of wood i need under thare ( the stock stand i can't get it up without the gas tank full of fuel off the bike, the xs1100 i had no problem like that, am i the only weak one out there?

3) will the side stand :need" to be longer, trying to avoid dropping the bike, or can i get away with leaving it alone?

4) is the lower bushing in the honda shock a larger diameter hole or smaller dia. than the Yamaha?

5) i also read preload is hard to adjust, i am very light 130lbs, can i get away with the lowest position?

6) with the lowest position will the bike still be higher that stock and if so by how much?

[mtc]

nevermind, i am too short for any increases in seat height, too heavy to paddle backwards as it is

[GhostMerc]

2) I'm not sure exactly what kind of board you will need, but a 2x4 was more than enough.  It was difficult to get up on there though.  Getting up on the centerstand is more trick than strength.  If you don't need the rear tire off the ground, the F4i shock makes it much easier.

3) It doesn't 'need' to be longer.  There will be more weight on the sidestand though which limits your parking spots to harder surfaces.

5)I weigh about 150 so I set all my stuff to the center.  At 130, I'd go one off the bottom

6) I'm a little short as well and I've got a hard time backing my bike up.  Learning to park in a way that allows you to drive out of a spot helps.  New sprockets, chain, alignment, and brakes goes a looooong way to reduce rolling resistance.  Before I replaced all that stuff, it was nearly impossible for me to back my bike up while sitting on it.  I'm working on mounting up a 180/55-17 on the rear which is a little shorter than stock.  I'll let you know if that helps while having the F4i shock. (someone else may already know)

[mtc]

thanks for your comments... how does it handle? night and day difference?

[GhostMerc]

It made an immediate difference.  It is a much smoother ride.  It's to the point where my seat is almost too soft now.