M750 budget suspension build, can it be done for $500?

[l88m22vette]

I've been researching stuff this winter and would like to get some input on how to approach a trellis suspension update on the cheap. I have front non-adjust Showas and the typical Sachs rear, I weigh 225lbs and am a new rider so this is for street only, and I'm fine with doing classifieds trolling and a little cobbling together. The biggest issue I've run into is that a lot of places don't make anything for early Monsters anymore, so although there is A TON of tech information and recommendations the threads tend to be outdated because the parts are NLA.

So, where does that leave me, when I don't want to pony up for a $1200+ suspension for my $2000 bike? I bought the bike because it was a deal and although I'm fine with putting some money into it I'm trying to be realistic. I'm sure there is an Ohlins or equivalent setup out there that'd sell for dirt-cheap just to clear warehouse space but that's an outlier, if those parts pop up I'm all over them. I'd like to keep the handlebar w/risers I already have, if only because clip-ons are another expense and I'm a noob . Here is what I've been able to figure out:

v1
- Race-Tech front and rear springs (linear?), 7wt oil, not sure of height
Front - .90 is recommended, do I go softer at .85 or stick or .90?
.85kg S3627085
.90kg S3627090
Rear - 11.2 recommended, however there are only 10.7 and 11.6 as choices, I assume 10.7 for a more compliant ride.
10.7kg 5818107
11.6kg 5818116

v2
- OEM plus approach, source stuff that is either a bolt-in or relatively easily compatible (swap in a new lower triple off eBay for an extra $30? no problem).
Front - M900 or similar adjustable front forks, or cartridges for the Showas; I'm probably out of my price range and level of experience with any real front fork work
Rear - ST2, 851/888, or some other OEM part that would receive a new rear spring; I like the idea of adjustment but the ST2's travel is 305mm vs 330mm, so basically a 1" loss and I'd probably need longer heim joints for the suspension hoop, and older Ducati shocks are under $100 all day.

v3
- v2 along with new valves like Race Tech Golds, a steering stabilizer (I wish Scott's still made the old Monster adapter!), and an upgrade to dual front brakes

v3 sounds awesome but at that point just spend the money on Ohlins or whatever, which circles around to no longer being budget. I like the idea of one-and-done rather that playing with 5 different setups, so if it makes sense to budget another couple hundred bucks to really cover things I get it. Thanks!

[greenohawk69]

https://r.tapatalk.com/shareLink/topic?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww%2Educatimonsterforum%2Eorg%2Findex%2Ephp%3Ftopic%3D77755%2E0&share_tid=77755&share_fid=36332&share_type=t&link_source=app

Potential help/direction where you want to go.

[koko64]

Does that link work for you? It doesn't for me.

It might be a good exercise to call your local suspension pro and ask what they can do for 500. Some may be able to do minor valve mods without buying expensive kits. For example, my guy put a Showa valve in a Sachs shock.

Fitting the correct springs is a good foundation. Maybe replacing the rear spring yourself and armed with the rest of the money seeing a suspension pro. You'll save a few bucks removing and replacing the forks yourself.  If you do, mark their position and measure it all up before removal.

There are suspension pros here who will chime in with more specific advice.

[ducpainter]

It works for me, but try this... http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=77755.0

[koko64]

Thanks, thats spot on.

Suspension stuff on pages 8 & 9.

[l88m22vette]

Good call, I've been watching Pinion's thread and have already bought some stuff from him, those cartridges are right on the edge of the budget (especially with used adjustable forks going for $250+)

Thanks for the comments on calling a few suspension places, I did plan an alignment and whatever if I get new tires this year. Forgot to mention, I planned on Michelin Road tires, the Diablo III sounds awesome but also not really right for me.

[ducpainter]

Used stock adjustable forks aren't anywhere near as good as what Pinion built.

They still use a junk Showa valve.

[Ddan]

http://www.ducatimonsterforum.org/index.php?topic=78042.0

[l88m22vette]

I get that, but he started with OEMs so I'd have to get a set of those to start

[ducpainter]

I get that, but he started with OEMs so I'd have to get a set of those to start

What's wrong with the set that Dan posted?

Already has the gold valve.

[koko64]

Most the work (and $$$) has been done. Worth checking out.

[koko64]

2000 M750 model. Checking fork compatibility. Got a pic of your front end? Hollow axel with a nut on the lhs or solid axel? Front caliper bolts 40mm or 65mm apart?

[Howie]

Assuming the fork springs are within range for your weight Dan's will do what you want.  As said, the rebound circuit sucks but the gold valve and linear spring make a huge difference.  On the street, IMO, the valving would be good for anywhere.  Anything better will put you way over budget.

[koko64]

Dan's are sprung for a 200 pounder and vette is 225. A spring or two off, but still much better than stock. I was concerned about the '99-2000 year model overlap thing.

[Howie]

Dan's are sprung for a 200 pounder and vette is 225. A spring or two off, but still much better than stock. I was concerned about the '99-2000 year model overlap thing.

Yep, you asked the perfect question.  2000 should be hollow axle 65mm. but with Ducati you never know and most anything is better than that progressive spring and harsh high speed valve.