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Slag · Posted: Fri Jan 13, 2006 8:52 pm Post subject: Replacing your Suspension

Ok, so I was cruising eBay looking at a set of used Ohlins for $$$, and I clicked this eBay store link for JC Motors Motorcycle Accessories (they can also be found here.

I have been pricing out Ohlins for months now and immediately recognized that these are going for just $50 per shock more than cost, between $100-$300 better per shock than anywhere else I've seen. I called their tool free number and spoke with Evan in internet sales. I asked him a few questions and explained that I had been busting my tail for months to save up a little extra cash to get back on the bike. He told me he would make a few phone calls and call me back first thing in the morning (11am EDT). He did, informing me that he had called Ohlins in NC, relayed my spring/valve settings (set for 215 lbs - I'm 170 plus usually have 20 lbs of stuff and often a girlfriend), and they are drop shipping them to me within the hour. He took my credit card info at this point (after the things are on their way), and emailed me the next day with my tracking info. I was very impressed. On a scale of one to ten I give them a 10.5 for price, a 12 for customer service, and I completely forgot their guarantee.

Copied from their site:

1. Satisfaction Guarantee
If you are unhappy with anything you purchase, or simply change your mind, we will refund you 100% the price of the item, including shipping costs to you, no questions asked. It must be returned in original condition, before installation, within 5 days of receipt.

2. Lifetime Return/Exchange Guarantee
JC Motors will buy back any new motorcycle part, at any time during the life of the part, at 50% of the original purchase price. The part must be returned to us without damage or modification from its original design. The original packaging is not required, but the receipt must accompany all returns. Normal use of the item expected, but any damage may affect its final guarantee value. All returns are subject to inspection by JC Motors prior to cash or credit issue. Final evaluation for value shall be the sole decision of JC Motors.

3. Damage Replacement Guarantee
By purchasing any new motorcycle part from JC Motors, you are receiving our guarantee to extend a 25% discount from our Buy it Now price to replace your part should you damage it during its lifetime. This offer is extended toward any replacement part of equal or lesser value, of like brand, type, and model, when the original damaged part and invoice are returned to JC Motors. Freight charges are the responsibility of the customer. The exact terms of this warranty as stated above will be included in your final invoice sent via US Mail.

So, this afternoon at 3:55 PM I got this:

Overall it took me 50 minutes. I have decent tools and poor lighting. It can probably be done faster with an impact ratchet, but I doubt it. My point is don't pay a shop $200 for this unless you are absolutely against touching tools. This was simple and quick.

The bike now handles like a dream. The old suspension was so bad I could hammer on it all day long and the front tire would never leave the ground, now if I twist it moderately I get a 3' wheelie. Curbs are smooth asphalt, speed bumps are optical illusions, and swerving in traffic feels like a roller coaster on a track. It's a completely different bike.
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Team Under the Radar Rocks!!

98 R1100GS - Black: the "Hooligan" Color