RFY Shocks (9)

Q: My rebuilt shocks are oily and even seem to have oil dripping from the reservoir, is this normal?

A: Yes! During the rebuild process the shocks are generally overfilled, as the parts are placed back into the shock bodies the oil overflows. I do not spend an exorbitant amount of time cleaning up the extra oil, as a result this oil will weep out of crevices directly after a rebuild. If you want to clean it up, use WD40 as a wash down, the solvent contained in WD40 will clear away the excess damper oil nicely without harming the anodize or rubber seals.

Q: What vehicles are suited for RFY Shocks?

A: Many vintage motorcycles have good experiences mounting rebuilt RFY shocks.

Q: What vehicles are not well suited to RFY shocks?

A: Heavy motorcycles such as Harley Davidson,  some BSA, Triumph, and really any model that weighs 600 lbs. and over. Additionally, quads and similar vehicles may not be well suited.

Q: What qualities should I be looking for if I am going to purchase a set of RFY shocks?

A: Shock length, spring rate, and mounting type are the main qualities you should consider during your purchase.

Q: Why do RFY shocks need rebuilt before using them?

A:Dampers are an important part of a vehicles suspension. They increase ride quality, help to keep your tires in contact with the road, and most importantly help to keep your ride safe and enjoyable.

Unfortunately RFY shocks come only partially filled with oil from the factory and often have issues with correct and consistent assembly. As a results, RFY shocks that have not been serviced do not function as they should. Luckily, they are fundamentally correct and a proper rebuild and inspection is all that is needed.

Q: Why can’t I just rebuild my RFY shocks by myself?

A: Given the right tools and knowledge of damper design you can. However, without the proper tools and skills you may damage your shocks or even cause bodily injury to yourself.

Q: I have heard that the clevis can break on RFY shocks, is it true?

A: While I have not encountered a single one, there are some reports of this around the internet. I believe they are likely true, however, it is also likely that these clevis failures can be attributed to improper mounting. The bolt through the clevis should not be torqued in a manner as to squeeze the two sides of the clevis inward. If this is done, it likely compromises the integrity of the clevis.

Q: Are these shocks intended for racing?

A: While you certainly could go racing with these shocks, it is not recommended. These are humble budget shocks intended for humble budget purposes. You know, like cruising around town and enjoying the ride.

Q: Can I pressurize my CL MotoTech or RFY shocks myself?

A: No, it is not recommended. Standard tire gauges can not be used to adjust the pressure of the reservoir. The volume of air inside the reservoir is very small and a standard tire gauge will allow for a significant pressure loss if used. Pressurization requires special tool that couples with the reservoir, thusly creating a sealed system where delicate adjustment can be achieved.

Store (6)

Q: Are the CL MotoTech service still available?

Absolutely! Though I do plan occasional store shutdowns, generally these occur during summer months. Watch the front page for news and updates.

Q: Do you offer discounts?

A: Outside of occasional sales and rewards to those who refer customers, no. My prices are published on my website and are an open and honest conveyance of the cost of my services. If you do not like those prices, go elsewhere.

Q: What are the advantages to having my shocks rebuilt using the services offered on this site?

A: When your RFY shocks are rebuilt here it is accomplished using special fixtures, tools, and techniques. The process relies upon a large pool of experience and knowledge that would be difficult to accomplish on your own. As a result, the finished product is the best that it can be.

Q: Do you ship outside the United States?

A: Yes, I do ship outside the U.S. though additional charges will apply. I currently have shipping rates setup for Australia, Austria, Canada, Norway, and Spain. I will ship to any country, if you are not on that list contact me and I will add your location.

Q: How long will it take for you to rebuild my shocks?

A: There is a maximum 1 week (7 days) time period for the completion of the rebuild and the placement of your rebuilt shocks in the mail. It’s important to note that shock packages do not quality for this. Generally many shock packages are more complex and require greater build periods.

Q: If I want additional services or products can that be arranged?

A: Yes. I am willing to work with you on products and services, however, there is a reasonable limit by which I can operate. For example; In the past I have provided custom machining services and adapted products to unique applications. If you have such an inquiry, please contact me privately.

Shocks (6)

Q: The stock shocks just need a rebuild, can I send them in?

No, most of the time the shocks that came on your now vintage motorcycle simply aren’t rebuildable, and if they can be rebuilt I don’t carry the parts to do so.

Q: How long does spherical bearing conversion add to the building of my shock kit?

A: It can add as much as 12 days to the standard 15 day turn around. This is dependent upon the work load and machining processes that are being completed on the in house CNC mill at the time.

Q: I only have enough money for either forks or shocks but not both, which should I do?

A: In most cases forks should be done first, this is especially true if the forks have blown seals or other obvious defects such as sagging springs or bad bushings. Without getting too techincal, this is because the front suspension has a large bearing on the performance of the rear suspension. That said, if the front suspension is satisfactory and the rear suspension has obvious major defects it is then appropriate to replace the shocks.

Q: What weight oil should I pick when purchasing a shock rebuild?

A: With RFY shocks 7 weight is generally best. However, if you have a very heavy bike, sometimes 10 weight is a good choice. If you are having your TEC shocks rebuilt, I recommend 10 weight. Though lighter bikes may be better with 7 weight.

Q: What pressure should my CL MotTech or RFY shocks have in the reservoir?

A: I recommend using no less than 85 psi and no more than 200 psi. Higher pressures increase shock performance but there is not much need to go too high as pressure in the 85 psi to 200 psi range is adequate for most if not all applications.

Q: Will heavier shock oil make my shocks stiffer?

A: Yes and no. Heavier oil makes the damping properties stiffer, meaning that the damper has more control over the spring as well as the various masses that act upon the spring. However, if your springs are found to be too soft, heavier oil will not fix this.