Ohlins Shocks for Commando?

Hello all,
Looking for the best high end performance shocks for my 1975 MKIII. Does Ohlins offer a model that fits and if so where to source? I understand there may be clearance issues on the left side due to the chain guard? TIA

I bought a mk 3 interstate with Ohlins on it over the winter. I don't really know much about how the Ohlins were acquired but I can answer any question determinable from inspection of the bike. I have only ridden it about 150 miles, most last week, as I had the tank out to my painter for repair as the riding season began. Nice bike I plan to use. Both it and my combat roadster are black and gold but are quite different in temperament.

ilikevelos said:

I bought a mk 3 interstate with Ohlins on it over the winter. I don't really know much about how the Ohlins were acquired but I can answer any question determinable from inspection of the bike. I have only ridden it about 150 miles, most last week, as I had the tank out to my painter for repair as the riding season began. Nice bike I plan to use. Both it and my combat roadster are black and gold but are quite different in temperament.

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Thank you for the reply. Is there any interference on the left side with the chain guard or are there any apparent modifications that were made to obtain clearance? Could you post a few pics, esp of the left side? Any idea what model the shocks are?

I will try to check tomorrow. Will try to post but not computer savy. No idea what model shocks. Is there a number on ohlins?

If it’s performance you’re trying to optimise, Maxton or K-Tech are amongst the best. Maxton having the advantage of being custom made to your weight etc.

The only source of useful information regarding currently available Ohlins shocks that could work on a vintage Norton that participated here passed away. His name is/was Dan Kyle. I could be wrong but don't think Ohlins ever gave a rat's rear end about making suspension components specifically for old Norton motorcycles, but there are Ohlins shocks with the right length and eye design. Try the search function and read any information posted by Dan Kyle. Also try a search in the P11 N15 Atlas forum. Some P11 owners have put Ohlins shocks on P11's.

You might waste less time finding something that works going with FE's advice and try Maxton and or K-Tech since both of those companies are still supporting vintage motorcycles like the Norton and know what should work. Unfortunately they are not on the North American continent, and you know who will want your pound of flesh added to the price.

Nitron would also be a good option.

These are picatures of the Ohlins shocks I fitted to one of my Mk3 Commandos.

This is my first fitting, with no mods to the shocks.





I was concerned about the clearance between the chainguard and the spring adjuster, so I made a new set of top hats to raise the spring for more clearance. This is the current configuration.





The new spring top hats.



Ken

Lots more info here in the late Dan Kyle's post on fitting Ohlins shocks to Commandos:


Ken