Whats the best thing you've done to your FJ

[JPaganel]

A lot of people have made mention of the OEM rear shock. Could someone please give me a more in-depth explanation as to what the real problem is with the stock setup?

First of all, the OEM shock is going to be around 22-30 years old. This means two things - the design and materials aren't as good  as they are now, and it's likely worn out.

[fj johnnie]

 I would say modern suspension. I have a Penske shock and a YZF 600 R front end set up by someone who knows what he is doing. The bike rides like it is 100 pounds lighter.  Of course there are so many other things......

[Pat Conlon]

Nothing wrong with the oem shock except that it was under sprung, under dampened with little or no rebound, plus the fact that it can't be rebuilt or have its valving modified.

Motorcycle suspensions have come a long way. Remember, back in the mid '80's, most street bikes had limited suspension travel with twin shocks.
The good news is the FJ was ahead of it's time with a pro link swing arm suspension.

The FJ oem shock was weak the day it rolled off the assembly line.

Save your money. Get a quality shock. You will be amazed. Guaranteed.

[hawkaholic37]

Good info guys. So what is a great shock to replace it with?

Also, not to hijack this thread...but l have read a lot about 2nd gear issues. Was this mainly a problem with the earlier models, or all the way through? The 2 bikes l am considering are a '90 and a '92. And on one of the threads l was reading, someone posted instructions as far as how to ride a bike to see whether or not it has the 2nd gear issue or not, and l'll be damned if l can find it again. Does anyone know that process offhand?

Thanks again for everything...l really like you guys

[Arnie]

Also, not to hijack this thread...but l have read a lot about 2nd gear issues. Was this mainly a problem with the earlier models, or all the way through? The 2 bikes l am considering are a '90 and a '92. And on one of the threads l was reading, someone posted instructions as far as how to ride a bike to see whether or not it has the 2nd gear issue or not, and l'll be damned if l can find it again. Does anyone know that process offhand?

The early bikes (to 86? ) were more prone to this. Later bikes got stronger shift arms.

Take off fairly hard in 1st, shift to 2nd and give it a big handfull of throttle.
(be carefull, if the traction is low the wheel will spin, too high and it might wheely)
If the dogs are worn it will jump out of gear, usually to neutral.

Arnie

[hawkaholic37]

Cool, thanks for the info Arnie. Just curious...by the time l figure out if the dogs are shot or not, how fast should l expect to be going? 

[hawkaholic37]

One more question...if it does have this issue, how big of a job is it to fix?

[simi_ed]

This is a BIG job to do.  You need to remove the engine from the frame, then invert it and split the case halves. If you're in this far, best to also put in the undercut gear set, from Randy or elsewhere.  And you need to do all 3 shift forks at the same time.  I'd guess $500-800 in parts.  Randy could quote you a labor and/or total price.

As far as how to tell, you need to take the bike to 5-6k rpm (in 2nd gear) then go full throttle.  If it pops out into neutral (as Arnie described) or just acts like a ratchet like mine did, then you're in for a job. If this is on a test ride, I'd pass!

All I can say is BTDT.

Ed

[hawkaholic37]

Thanks Ed

[Tony Mac]

Prior to the WOG 57 Rally this year, I refurbished my front brakes after 125000 Klms. I found that to be a great investment in time and money. The Lever has never felt firmer.
One day I might even get braided lines.
Be Good.
Macca.

[Arnie]

Macca Maaaaaaaaaaattttte,

Go on, Do IT !!!
You deserve it, and your brakes will be much more predictable and safer.
Remember, those rubber brake lines are 23yrs old now.
Yamaha says they should have been replaced when 4 yrs old.

Prior to the WOG 57 Rally this year, I refurbished my front brakes after 125000 Klms. I found that to be a great investment in time and money. The Lever has never felt firmer.
One day I might even get braided lines.
Be Good.
Macca.

[pdxfj]

Custom shaping the stock seat to fit me.  Otherwise I couldn't ride it for more than 90 minutes max...

[red]

For me, it was modern tires.  My FJ1100 came with ancient Metzlers (Triumph OEM) and I wanted to wear them out first.  That was a bad choice, made by finances, not by brains.  These tires were old, hardened, and maybe unsafe at high speeds by now.  There really are not many choices for 16" tires on the FJ; Avons, Pirelli, or Metzlers.  I did not like the looks of the Metzlers.

I switched to Pirelli Sport Demons, and man, it was like I got a new bike under me.  The improved handling was amazing.  I realized then that maybe the old tires worked, but not well enough to inspire real confidence.  Two times, on the old tires, hard braking had made the rear wheel lock and slide, when I knew in my heart that new tires would not have done that.  Those new tires were worth every penny.

Cheers,
Red

[ribbert]

When I think about the mods that enhance my enjoyment of riding the FJ most, they are:

Google maps/ GPS or other navigational device (although not strictly a mod)

Eliminating chain maintenance with good chain and automatic oiler.

GPS HUD unit that projects speed onto screen

LED Indicator tell tale on flexible stalk

Shorter dog bones.

Brake pads.

Grease nipples on engine mounts.

Noel 

[FJ Flyer]

The first mod I did was the headlight  relay.  Easy with immediate payback.  But, the best mod.....definitely converting to the 17" front wheel along with radial rubber.  After being enlightened by Mr. Ratfart at  Boone rally, I realized my stock ' 87 handled like a pickup truck. 

I set about getting some '89 sliders and wheels, new fork springs, and blue dot calipers and master cylinder.   Also installed new steering head bearings, along with wheel bearings.  Needless to say, that was a lot of changes all at once, but the transformation was substantial.  Definitely made the rallies more fun!