Rebuilding or replacing Ceriani shocks?

TeddyG

TeddyG

Hero member
Location
Portland Oregon
The original Ceriani shocks on my 750 SF are extremely harsh at their softest setting. Before I spend money for Icons/Hagons/Wilbers, etc, has anyone had their Cerianis rebuilt and did it make a difference? What weight are the springs set for? What replacement shocks are advised for spirited street riding? i,ve read conflicting opinions about Icon and Hagen. I want rebound features and know you get what you pay for, but Wilbers are pricey.
Thanks
 
There are a lot of options from this century that are far, far superior to rebuilding 1970s Cerriani shocks. I have MUPO Italian-built shocks from this century on my '78 1200, and they are way better than the Koni shocks I have on my '78 Jota. To be fair, the Koni shocks I purchased in 83 to replace the original Marzo shocks have performed exceptionally, but the MUPOs put the KONI to shame.
 
Totally agree with Dave - today's offerings are so superior to Ceris that if you like to get up it are well worth the trouble to seek out. Even if you are more sedate and just want comfort a modern option is a win. Others will have advice on price points, but there are options cheaper than Maxton, Wilbers, Ohlins, Nitron (which i have on the SFQ ... and LOVE them). i'm glad i lashed out on top shelf units.
 
Nothing wrong with rebuilding the originals, as long as you can put up with their mediocre performance compared to modern units. Given an overhaul, they work quite OK, about what one can expect from a 1960's shock. Way to go if the bike is to remain "original".

The rear Cerianis in my GTL were rebuilt about 30 years ago, still working as good/bad as back then. Much the same with the forks... wouldn't have it otherwise with that bike though! I did find slightly softer springs for the shocks, quite OK for sedate touring on smooth roads.


piet
 
Thanks guys,

I'd like to keep it under $1K, and so far, K-Tech Razor Lites offer preload,rebound,length adjustment,N2 charged for @ $900. Race Tech are slightly more and charge $300 extra just for filling out their info form.

I plan on adjusting the fork oil weight/amount and check the sag once I get the shocks. I think this will help improve the handling.
 
You might ask Davey -at Durelle Racing- if he thinks he can make a significant improvement in the function of the Cerianis. He's a former flat track and Pike's Peak racer who sets up suspension for top racers (and putterers like me). He did the Marzocchi forks on my SF2, along with the setup of 4-5 bikes that proceeded it.
 
TeddyG said:
Thanks guys,

I'd like to keep it under $1K, and so far, K-Tech Razor Lites offer preload,rebound,length adjustment,N2 charged for @ $900. Race Tech are slightly more and charge $300 extra just for filling out their info form.

I plan on adjusting the fork oil weight/amount and check the sag once I get the shocks. I think this will help improve the handling.
Click to expand...
Overhauling and then fitting progressive springs to the Cerianis might help them a bit..
 
When I redid my Darmah years ago, I got Works Performance shocks and fork springs from Bev Hev. It made a huge difference in ride and handling. I think Works shocks went tits up but Steve still lists the fork spring kit for the Ceriani/Marzo forks.
 
wdietz186 said:
When I redid my Darmah years ago, I got Works Performance shocks and fork springs from Bev Hev. It made a huge difference in ride and handling. I think Works shocks went tits up but Steve still lists the fork spring kit for the Ceriani/Marzo forks.
Click to expand...
Excellent idea- I've purchased parts from BH before and will see about the fork springs. I prefer to buy shocks in US for servicing considerations but considering others. I just want something better than the Cerianis and would like to have rebound adjustability.
 
YSS are a good quality shock, and they do a rebound adjustable item, but Protech do a rebound and compression adjustable pair of shock absorbers. British manufactured, so not sure what they would cost a citizen of the USA with shipping and taxes, but the 750 SF shock with combined 14 way adjustable rebound/compression starts at £317.13 excluding tax , but they also build shocks to order with a choice of spring rates . https://www.protechshocks.co.uk/
 
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