83 GL1100 Rear Shocks and Front Wheel Issue.

[Arcane]

Hi Guys, I was recently given an 83 GL1100 and I have a few issues I hope you can help me with.

1) Where would I buy some rear shocks? I haven't had any luck with Google.

2) I have an issue with the Front Wheel feeling like it doesn't quite move with the handle bars sometimes. I was reading this could be a bearing issue, but does anyone have any real experience with this and could shed some more light on it?

3) I am hearing a squeaking noise some where around the speedometer/tachometer area that comes and goes even when the bike is not moving. Is this a lubrication issue with the tachometer cable? If so, where would I go to learn how to fix it?


Thanks for any input, it is much appreciated.

[WingAdmin]

1) You can find Progressive 416 replacement shocks at many retailers online, and they are a fantastic replacement shock for your bike.

2) Check the bearings, also check the triple tree - clamp the front wheel in place and try to turn the handlebars to check for free play. You might want to also look into a fork brace if you don't have one already.

3) It could be the cable or the tach itself. You can lubricate the tach cable with regular oil, cable oil, or (my favorite) graphite lubricant.

[Arcane]

Thanks for all the info man. I went ahead and ordered the bearings so those will be getting replaced, but I will definately check the Tripple tree too.

[LittleGoldy]

The 416 Progressive Shock has been discontinued by Progressive with extremely limited stock remaining. When it's gone, kiss it good bye.

[newday777]

The 416 Progressive Shock has been discontinued by Progressive with extremely limited stock remaining. When it's gone, kiss it good bye.

Good information for those not in the know.....

Did you look at the dates of this thread before posting???? Almost 10 years old now...... Dragging up the dead?

[LittleGoldy]

No just informing those that did not know. Why is providing information on an older thread "dragging up the dead"?
I am rebuilding a GL1100 and found this out. Not sure in what world providing information that is accurate to the times and applicable to this model a bad thing, but, thanks for your pessimistic view.

[WingAdmin]

Keep in mind, the VAST majority of traffic to this site is from people doing Google searches. So despite the fact that a thread may have been started 9 years ago, if that thread holds valuable information, Google will send people to it.

So updating an older thread with updated information is definitely worthwhile, in order to help prevent people from following outdated advice.