Hi! As you have maybe seen in another topic, the genuine rear shock on my 2005 Sprint got a seized preload adjustment. As I ride more and more with wife and luggage, this is not ok. Second small issue, the bike is 2cm too high for my short legs. I've browsed a bit and found YSS shock for around 300 Euros. These have a simple thread for the preload, and an adjustable length. This would solve all my issues. Does anyone actually ride with YSS shock, and are they any good?
I finally went for a made to mesure shock (usage, weight, etc) with the lowering adjustable option with a company called "Shock factory". the shock will be made at 1 h driving from home. From the friend who advised me about, it's held by an englishman called Mike Capon that worked for EMC shocks, and created this business. The price is 450 euros (395 + adjustable height option), so not far from a YSS and locally made. https://shock-factory.co.uk/ If some have interest in, I'll give you my feedback once the shock will be on the bike.
I've ordered my new shock on wednesday, received a call on Friday to go and collect it at the workshop. You can see where the shock is actually built, and can talk with the guys that made it. It's a nice experience. And any issue, maintenance can be done. I can only recommend Shock Factory. The Boss Mike Capon is a very knowledgeable person, and takes the time to explain all you need to know about the shock he built for you. Add to that a more than fair price. Saturday morning, I mounted the new shock. Don't follow the Haynes fully. No need to disassemble the fuel tank. Only the battery box removal is mandatory to pull out the shock. Just lift the tank to disassemble the support. The only con is I need to remove the shock plastic guard to adjust the shock. A new shock is always a good way to confirm how much the old one was not good anymore