Can I get away with only replacing my front shocks and not the rear?

[bmx2962]

I know I need new front shocks, but I am wondering if I also HAVE to replace my rear shocks at the same time? Any reasons why I should or shouldn't do this? Thanks.

 

[FROADER]

You don't have to. Change them only if you know they are bad as well.

 

[ThePhoenix]

or, like me, change what you can afford...I changed the fronts...not the backs yet

 

[gijoecam]

Think about it this way: The rear wheels hit almost all the same bumps the fronts did. If the fronts are shot, the backs are likely shot as well.

Just because they're not leaking, squeaking, or otherwise making noise doesn't mean they're not worn out. They can be shot and damping suspension only minimally without any outward signs.

-Joe

 

[Willard]

I always kind of thought the fronts would get used more, since there is more weight in the front for them to control.

 

[gijoecam]

The shocks don't really care how much weight there is on the front end... They damp the motion between the suspension and the chassis. They're not going to work significantly 'harder' than the rears.

-Joe

 

[Walnut777]

I put some gas matic shocks from Advance or Autozone about 2 years ago. I seem they were shot from the get go.
I just recently put Monroe Reflex shock on the front and man what a difference in the ride! I will have to put the rear ones on when I get some extra money!

 

[Blacksheep Josh]

good luck on it. i'm redoing my entire suspension this summer, leaf springs/coilsprings/shocks all around. going off to college, need it to be reliable on the road now...

 

[Joe Dirt]

Reason for doing it: Rears are like $30 a piece for a good Monroe SensaTrac. Why not just do them all? If it's a money thing, I can understand that though. eBay you can usually find them for less...

My Sensa Tracs made a huge difference, and even more now that they're getting broken in...