Z1 vs KZ900 shock length

I purchased a set of shocks from a local guy, and I assume are from early Z1 (see photo). I haven't finished installing them yet.



Even though I was pleased with the ride of my existing shocks that I bought on eBay, cosmetically the chrome was worn off the springs. So I purchased these new shocks since they looked in good shape for 35+ shocks with good chrome. The only issue I am having is these Z1 shocks seem to be an inch shorter than my original set (12 3/4" vs 13 3/4"). So now I'm afraid the bike's stance will change. This really surprised me. Are the older shocks shorter? At first I thought they may be from an LTD, but there was no LTD's prior to '76. Anybody know the story with these shock lengths?

Ikon suspension say 13.75 in shocks for all years, 900 and 1000.

Does the one I have pictured look like a Z1 shock to you? Or, maybe its not for Z1 but another brand? Any way to find out from any markings? These don't have any markings other than the reflector is a Stanley looks to be SAE 71. As you can see the springs are more compressed on the bottom vs the top. I saw some early Z1's on the web and the springs are uniform top to bottom. And on this one the reflector body is black plastic and not chrome.

I think they may be from an old triple, like this one, Ikon list them as 12.8 in.

faffi wrote: I think they may be from an old triple, like this one, Ikon list them as 12.8 in.

Faffi, I think you are 100% correct! Thanks for the info. I guess now, does anybody need a nice set of 12.8" shocks for an old triple? :laugh:

machHOW MUCH,AND I ASSUME THEY WILL FIT A 1981 750 LTD.THANKS,GERRY.

callie 2012 wrote: machHOW MUCH,AND I ASSUME THEY WILL FIT A 1981 750 LTD.THANKS,GERRY.

Sorry callie, sold them on eBay. Ended up losing $5 compared to the purchase price once the shipping, eBay fees and PayPal fees were included. But I was happy to get rid of them and help someone else with their build. Too bad, they were a very nice set and looked real nice on the bike.