Honda NC750X - Suspension Upgrade - Part 2: Rear Shock Test Ride

Time to test the new YSS rear shock after the install done in Part 1
yssaustralia.c...

[@IdealBike]

Nicely explained video , you manage somehow to make us have realistic expectations about the suspension. Nevertheless, I am thinking how Honda was planning about building this great bike overall by making still a lot of compromises. Suspension it's one of it's compromise along with seat, weight and all small parts which we all know they need improvement. By making all these videos hopefully they will listen and improve the bike for the future. Greetings, looking forward to see your next video.

[@420pitstopcustoms8]

I have lived every video I have watched of yours.. very well explained and comprehensive. I recently got one of these bikes and it has 10,000 miles on it so some of the things you have done I will be doing soon. Thanks dude..

[@victordunn6490]

I always enjoy your vlogs but, I’m disappointed with this one as there was no mention of your attractive assistant!

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Ha! He will feature in part 3. I’ll tell him he has a fan 😁

[@victordunn6490]

Honda NC750X Stuff More than one I’ll wager!😀

[@brunoalmeida3966]

Good video I have an Nc750X(2015) and maybe a install a rear shock like this. Thank you for you serious opinion and review. Regards from Portugal

[@mikefreeriderAsia]

Excellent video, I changed my suspension at about 160,000 k on my NC750X with YSS. Luckily they are made in Thailand and it was installed and set up by the factory. Rejuvenated my NC750X

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Good to hear. Same with me - it was set up for my weight and bike. It was perfect right out of the box.

[@exeterrider]

Tempted, I've never thought much of honda stock suspension on pre 10k bikes. Will be intresting to see how the front performs on the next episode. 👍🍻

[@Herzankerkreuz67]

I did order a Wilbers shock that is customized to the weight spectrum I gave them and I must say it makes a world of difference. Especially since I have another NC with the stock shock absorber as a direct comparison. Personally I believe upgrading the suspension is worth the money. Safe rides 👍🏍

[@kevinbufton7118]

good conclusion to the previous video, looking forward to the next one! best wishes kb

[@crunchers9]

My 700XDCT has been in service for over 4 years now. My solution? Upgrade to a new leftover red 2018 750! It felt much tighter and stable on the test ride, plus that extra power is noticeable. It took so long to find a nice red one, as I don't care for the blue 2019 or very dark color on the 2020. Good luck with the front forks.

[@robans]

Adjusting preload on 2014 model is pita, those two nuts that you screw with C spanner. I wish Honda made it a little bit easier, and I need to adjust it every time I travel with pillion and luggage, otherwise it feels like stearing a boat. But those shocks are so expensive 400-600€

[@BN1960]

Agree The stock shock on the NC is a bit crude I've only got about 30k KM on mine but may go get a YSS unit now as they seem dead easy to change. Good video Adrian, cheers.

[@roadwarrior8560]

Very good, when I change a shock I haven't to worry if I have wasted the money because the old shock will be completely done before I buy anew one!

[@christianweller4288]

The infamous Aussie washboard unpaved roads will be the ultimate test. Very interesting project thanks for sharing.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Called “corrugations” in Oz, after the ubiquitous corrugated iron used extensively for shelter in the bush 😊

[@bobfisheruk]

Very Interesting Video Thanks, Waiting for the next one on the Front End..

[@nerf5305]

Ah, Deaves Rd and Mandalong Rd, a very good test run to have in your backyard. Great part of the world. I'll give you a wave next time I see you. Keep an eye out for Henre the yellow Super Tenere. Keep up the good vids including cameos by attractive mechanical assistant mate :-)

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Ha! Good spotting. Yes. I’ll keep an eye out for a fat canary 😂

[@pcofranc]

On my old bmw k75s I changed the front fork tubes to progressive springs and it made a huge difference in ride quality; much more responsive to small bumps.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

That’s interesting as the std springs are progressive and the aftermarket ones are not.

[@yellownev]

When the shock failed on my Deauville and I sent it away for repair (!) the shock specialist company said most manufacturers put the lowest spec shocks on all their bikes ..... for all bikes I guess. Its the specialist shock manufacturers like yours that add function and specification to better fit the bike and rider.... enjoy the better and safer ride as we should remember that shock is working hard to keep a constant tyre contact point...

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Good points. Thanks

[@bigr3d863]

That was a great couple of vids and I will be interested to hear how you find the valves for the front forks.

[@anyplaceadventures]

Just starting to notice the suspension isn't coping after 45000kms, hum maybe time to start the Christmas list 👍 great videos thanks

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Yes. Shocks do deteriorate over time/use. Cheaper than a new bike too!

[@Richard-dh8ny]

Brilliant video! Just curious how the shock upgrades are holding up after three years?

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

I have sold the NC. But the shock was still fine when sold. However there have been reports of poor quality build issues with the YSS by others.

[@MRTPR]

Excellent Video thanks Mate. I am thinking of the YSS shock for the GSX S 1000. They seem to be reasonable quality for a reasonable price.

[@Oberfeldmaus1]

I also build in an YSS into my NC and adjusted the screw to 13 clicks from "lowest"

[@sergiomarcal3001]

👍

[@sandwaves5642]

Ye. Thi IS a pretty useful clip 👍👍👍 If Honda installed good shocks on NC750X it would be the perfect bike for so many.

[@прошастельмах]

but for non-English speakers, can the conclusion be described in writing

[@nathannc750x5]

Thanks to your video. I was able to do mine today by myself. I went with nitron. About to test ride.

[@johnsonlsn]

Very well explained, I do have doubts about YSS shocks for my Honda Varadero XL1000V but after watching your details review I am impress and confident. By the way after more than a year now with the YSS shocks still good?

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

YSS are good for the price. And the build quality is perfect. But I think the Wilbur’s shock I put on Wendy’s 500x is a bit better. But it cost considerably more.

[@giannhslakiss]

Thank you very much, excellent video.👍👍👍

[@davestraight8219]

no harm in not editing the comedy moment :) i have a 16 750x had heard of yss but didnt know if they were good or bad - when i change mine theyll be on the list thanks - can i ask who makes the screen lip thingy? was looking for a bigger screen but removeable lip would be good - thanks

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Screen? Generic from fleabay. There are lots of sellers selling them. Just search “motorcycle screen extension”. YSS - made in Thailand. Had one on my 1150GS which performed well. Any they are way less expensive that for example Wilbers

[@lorimcquinn3966]

Enjoyed the articles you've posted on the NC750XDCT, look forward to new ones.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Thanks mate

[@marcosagosti6175]

Very good video. Clear explanations on a difficult to explain subject as suspension feeling is. I had a similar experience on modified suspension on a 2016 Moto Guzzi V7ii with Matris parts. The feeling is likely to improve further as the parts get broken-in. Look forward for the fork mods.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Thanks mate. Yes I’m looking forward to the fork mods. You will probably see the install vid next week some time.

[@alihsas]

Thank you from KSA.

[@cameronmcrae4719]

i put a new rear shock on march 2019 and i agree totally it felt like a new bike but shocks dont come cheap.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Yes they aren’t cheap. I kept bending over looking for sprouting $100 notes to no avail 😢

[@meerkat-man]

Great contribution there, I've been thinking of same upgrade to my 4 year old NC750X, unsure which make of shock to go with, a few options here in the UK. I first put half weight fork oil in to make front less harsh, helped a bit but not enough!

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Unfortunately there is no perfect solution to a “damper rod” type fork. I’m hopeful the valves will help though.

[@garthhowe297]

Thanks for the honest evaluation. I don't think the price/benefit ratio makes this something worth considering for my riding.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Yes. I agree this is the point - it’s got to be a decision based on your own needs, not some idiot on KZbin that enthuses over a product.

[@stevebolton8471]

Managed to improve mine by reducing the preload on the rear shock. Enough for me at the moment. Interesting video though, looking forward to the next.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Agree that’s a good first move if your weight isn’t too high for the spring. Unfortunately that wasn’t an option for me 😩

[@lesbishop7016]

Two good videos there Adrian, thanks for your work to produce these. My NC is young yet with just under 7000 miles so a ways to go before an assault on the bank account.... As to the bike and the ride, as you rightly say, the suspension is okay for what was paid for it, upgrading when needed rather than “just because” is the way to go. Appreciate your good work, looking forward to seeing what the front suspension upgrade brings by way of improvement.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Thanks mate. Yes. I’m keen to see what, if any improvement the valves make. They only cost $148au so a cheap upgrade if they work.

[@russelllocke7180]

Looking forward to your next. 👍🏍

[@Lukasz36]

Great video very well explained and lots of details👍

[@martinsero685]

Bravo bravissimo

[@dsolin]

An extra thumb up for you sitting down and talking into the camera.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Thanks mate. It’s not my number one skill!

[@dsolin]

Honda NC750X Stuff Well, isn’t that (part of) the point with your channel - just normal stuff from a normal guy. It is for me as a viewer anyway :)

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Daniel Solin - that’s very nice of you to say that. Much appreciated.

[@dsolin]

@@AfricaTwin-Stuff If you and your wife ever come to the south of Thailand, I have a couple of bikes waiting for you to go explore. One 2019 Africa Twin and one 2018 Honda Forza 300. Free of charge of course. We can call it payment for your video production. Keep up the good work!

[@reljoy]

That road looked really nice, winding through the trees.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Yes and it’s only minutes from home 😊

[@brendanstirling494]

Loving the videos and content, 2-3 weeks away from picking up the 2020 model so looking forward to comparing likes, dislikes and hates as per your previous posts. I'm also around your size but like to think of myself as well rounded, well lived and with lots of life experience in preference to lumpish. Cheers

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Ha! Yes you must excuse the Aussie pastime of self deprecation.

[@brendanstirling494]

@@AfricaTwin-Stuff Mate, based in Central Vic, well understand the humour 😉

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Brendan Stirling - excellent. I grew up in Vic and spent many happy hours riding a Bantam in the bush around Murrindindi back when dinosaurs roamed the earth!

[@ronsmith6242]

Great video YAY first

[@alanhassall]

Even the non-budget bikes often don't have the best suspension. They also aren't set up for your weight unless you weigh what the bike was designed for.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Agree. You see almost every top-line bike getting its shock changed. It’s something we often forget. Thanks

[@alanhassall]

@@AfricaTwin-Stuff my 2011 Kawasaki Z1000 was not a bargain bike when new. The new Z900 is much more budget and the rear shock has limited adjustability. The fork has preload, compression and rebound damping, but benefits from tuning. It isn't quite as basic as the NC750. It also gets horrible gas mileage. Someday I will upgrade, but it isn't high on my list.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

alanhassall - good point. Thanks

[@carlospais5455]

Always nice to see you...

[@numbone2945]

Nice job.

[@randhirnikam]

Thanks for the video. Really informative. Question - Will this motorcycle be comfortable for an occasional 2-3 hours ride with a pillion? Total weight around 200 kgs.

[@bobfisheruk]

I also have an NC750X and I have been to Austria with my Wife on Pillion twice now, Fully Loaded Riding 350 miles a day for 3 days with No problems and Stock Suspension, Though I would like to upgrade it.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Bobs answer is good. I can’t comment as I don’t carry a pillion, as Wendy has her own bike.

[@randhirnikam]

@@bobfisheruk Thank you Bob.

[@TurboDieselBeetle]

I did it earlier this year on a 2012 NC700x with stock suspension. Rider, Pillion and gear was about what you mentioned for weight. It handled fantastically, lots of power, passed vehicles in traffic with ease and still knocked down 50-60mpg!! :{) You can read about it and see the pictures here... www.nc700-forum.com/threads/making-a-run-to-the-oregon-coast-and-touring-lighthouses-if-possible.17450/

[@Ray0155401]

Curious as to why you picked YSS over a Wilbers. Really enjoy your videos. Thanks.

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Why YSS - it was $500 cheaper than the equivalent Wilburs. - I had a YSS on my 1150GS and was happy with it. - the Oz company I’ve dealt with for over 15 years is now the Oz YSS distributor so I know I’ll get good after sales support if required.

[@Ray0155401]

@@AfricaTwin-Stuff I wonder if they ship to Canada, as there are no dealers here...

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Ray - email the Oz distributer. They will be able to advise you. Use this address and say Adrian Iredale referred you. [e-mail]

[@Ray0155401]

Thank you Adrian!

[@neilpinkett]

A piece to camera, is this a first?

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Yes. It’s an adventure into the unknown !

[@neilpinkett]

@@AfricaTwin-Stuff its good mate.. do more

[@AgentBasil]

Nice road to test it on!

[@AfricaTwin-Stuff]

Yes and only minutes from home too.

[@EricBanner571]

Just a thought, as it was initially harsh over bumps, you have adjusted the rebound only as this shock did not come with compression settings. Softening up the rebound will give you the effect of being softer over bumps but you well find a pogo effect as the rebound will continue to go back and forth before settling. If this is the case, you may be a better option to soften your rear pre-load at around 35-40 mm sag and then increase the rebound to where it settles quickly over bumps without the pogo. It's always a compromise when you don't have all of the rebound, compression settings to adjust. I went through the same process with my CBR500R with entry level. suspension.

[@cruisingthethaiway6881]

Adjusting the sag will not effect the performance of the shock. It will however change the rake angle of the forks that will change the way it turns into the corners.

[@EricBanner571]

@@cruisingthethaiway6881 Changing the Sag to approximately 1/3 of the total travel will ensure that the shock operates in the correct part of the stroke meaning the compression and rebound shim stacks work as intended.