Cabron - why don't you name and shame the builder of your shock - it might be useful to some of us!

My trip is for charity, and so a supplier in London (AllBike Engineering) have said they will do any work I specify on the rear shock FOC.

I don't think I will replace it entirely, but I may get it overhauled and get a firmer spring fitted, to gain a *bit* more travel. The 3AJ is low @ the back, esp. with luggage fitted.

I may also get someone (DL?) to have a look at the linkages to remove some of the OEM sloppiness.

.... but whatever happens, the guts of the unit will remain Yamaha OEM.

On monsieur lambeth's advice fitted at Xt600e shock (no preload adjuster, but otherwise identical). £50 from a scapper...works fine!!!

Even if it fails, with the money I saved from not buying aftermarket I can buy another 9 shocks.... sure to last me a good few years!!!

jasper