While not an owner-serviceable part, you should still maintain Shock Absorbers Suppliers’s shock absorber. “After a wet ride,” says Michael, “give it a spray with penetrating fluid, especially around the damping rod where it goes into the shock body. This will help keep the dirt and moisture from corroding the shaft and the seal.”
Keep an eye out for any oil leak around the damping rod as running the shock dry will very quickly damage it; at best it’ll take longer and be more expensive to service as more parts will need replacing. At worst it’ll be scrap and cost you a lot more than £150 every three to five years in servicing.
Considering that a complete fork service – with new seals and oil – costs the same at K-Tech, keeping your suspension in top condition really should be considered part of a long-term service schedule.
Some Motorcycle Rear Shock Absorber, like this one, have a plastic sleeve that ‘protects’ the damping rod, but it also traps dirt and water inside. Michael also doesn’t recommend the use of shock covers, as any moisture and grime that gets in will be trapped, accelerating the corrosion of your suspension and preventing you from keeping it clean.