VF500 rear suspension questions

It has 4 suspension setting, 1 through 4. Which is hard and which is soft?
Is there an aftermarket shock available?
For something prettier, what shocks from a differnet bike (with a 14 inch eye to eye length) work? Any suggestions?

Thanks!

 

1 is softest, 4 is hardest. Measure all the stock shock dimensions and find one that's closest and it should work ok. make sure it comes from a bike that weighs about the same as the 500. Not sure if any aftermarket units are still available.

 

User Puma Cat mentioned to me in another thread that Fox shocks were a popular after market replacement for the VF500 back then.

 

Yeah, but they quit making them many years ago. I've been doing a lot of shock modifications for the early VF's lately, which is an indication as to how widespread this problem is. Go to my site and click on the "Rear Shock Solution" link on the left side to see the details.

 

WOW. great site. very helpful. thank you