[quote=“sulavaca”]Yet another reason why Taiwan should have a regular testing/checking procedure for vehicle maintenance standards. There are none at present, other than the exhaust gas emissions check which I think is required once per year.[/quote] I was thinking it’s one added hazard of riding a bike. I’m not sure things like that are commonly inspected elsewhere either because I for one never heard of a snapped shock before. I was blown away.
[quote]and gives me doubts as to whether the original design was proper enough in the first place.[/quote]That is correct. Two design faults from what I was told.
1-The shock itself is mounted with too much of an angle which causes what you wrote below with accuracy:
[quote]The strut has had some side load on it for some time judging by the ruts that the spring has worn into the sleeve of the external coupling.[/quote]The mechanic told me that on BWS, the rear shock should be replaced every couple years at the most, precisely because of the “side load” you mentioned.
2- The shock design itself isn’t strong enough for this constant “side load.”
[quote]These tell tale signs of wear should have been picked up by a competant mechanic and should have been an indication of need of replacement quite some time ago.[/quote]I’ve known her shock was worn out for quite some time now, but I never thought this could happen. I thought it’s just softer and bouncier… I didn’t think it was actually dangerous… 
[quote]When repairing, please also check the suspension swing arm linkage as this (if faulty) can place unproper (side) loads on the damper and strut. Basically speaking, please give a good all round check to the other components of the suspension before simply replacing the strut (coil and damper/Shock and spring).[/quote]Less than a year ago, this scooter had the upper and lower end of the engine rebuilt. The swing arm was disassembled, and well greased up when put back together. I must say, though, the swing arm on the BWS is very sturdy. Even with a worn out shock, there is no visible twisting like on many other scooters with a single shock to one side upon hitting bumps. It’s pretty solid, and that’s why she managed to ride the bike with a snapped shock, I think.
[quote]That looks to me like a five to six year old bike strut ( minimum).[/quote]Also correct. The shock is nearly 7 years old… [quote]Best just purchase a new bike every now and again (I would say three years or so)[/quote] I’m not into buying new vehicles. I can’t stand losing 30% just by driving away from the dealership… I can sell my scooter for as much as I paid for it 2 years ago, and that’s how I like it… Mind me, you’re right, it’s not as safe, obviously.
[quote]Please tell me if I am wrong in my evaluations however as I am always learning about the state of wear and tear of motor vehicles.[/quote]No, I think you’re damn close just from looking at a couple pictures.
I’m buying a shock for my scooter today. Mine is also 7 years old. I can get a performance shock(the adjustable kind) for 3000NT, or just a Yamaha one for 1300NT. Not worth the risk.
