Which F3 shock for my F2?

DBM · 02-05-2007, 4:33 PM

The 97-98 F3's had a longer shock/spring and different linkage pivot point compared to the 95-96 F3 (which looks more like the 91-93 F3 bits). The question is, which one do I want for my 92 F2? I'm guessing that the 95-96 unit would drop right in since it more closely resembles the 92 F2 rear shock/linkage, but is there any benefit to using the longer 97-98 rear shock and linkage? I would assume that using the 97-98 rear shock alone with the 92 F2 linkage would result in a higher rear ride height. Would the 97-98 linkage correct this? I've been reading that racers like to raise the rear anyways, but I've been reading so much conflicting info, so I thought I'd ask.

Thanks for any info you can provide!

FWIW, I'm 170lbs, and use the bike for 70% street, 30% track.

ohi stopthat · 02-07-2007, 5:32 AM

Hello there
After trying this forum and others (not much help)

, I recon you should do like Im gonna and spend yer hard earnd cash with Mr Ohlins. After pissing about making the wrong parts fit, the damping or spring rate arnt gonna be right and youl end up worse off with worse suspension and a bike thats worth less. No win situation.

Trusty Ebay is always worth a look.

Triax · 02-09-2007, 12:33 PM

most honda's shocks are set for dual rider set up so you can usually adjust them to better fit your rider weight but unscrewing the spring alittle so it isn't as stiff. You should be able to fit all the way up to an f4i shock on there. I did that to my f3 and it was great, it raised the rear about an inch. But i got a slightly used one off ebay for $10 can't really beat that. You might want to change your kick stand too. Buying an ohlins is worthless unless you ride track more than 50% of your time. They are great products but the cost of the shock is half the price of what your bike is worth. Heres some pics off another site.

CBRWorld.net - Can I see some f4i shock on f2 pics?

ohi stopthat · 02-14-2007, 6:35 AM

An F4i shock will mess up your rake and trail by lifting the bike so much, you also get a standard Honda shock with all the damping caricteristics of lumpy custard.
If you just want the looks--fine... But if you still want yer stead to handle properly and not like a shopping trolley--dont..

Your choice. Ive just fitted Ohlins front springs and a rear spring and damper, sorced second hand for £300. The diffrence is unbeliveable.

Triax · 02-20-2007, 1:26 PM

yes ohlins are great but damn expensive. As i said before i did the F4i shock swap and set it to my rider weight and style of riding and it helped out greatly.

Bager · 03-05-2007, 1:02 PM

The shok and link lengh and ratio is the same on the F2 1991-1994 and the F3 1997-1998. The F3 1995-1996 is different, but they changed it back to the same as the F2 in 1997

LITEITUP · 03-23-2007, 5:23 PM

So are you saying the 95-96 shock wont work on the 92? I have an extra shock off my 95-96 and was thinking of putting it on my friends 92 F2.