I have a 2004 GasGas 280 Pro. Some have said there will be a little bit of play in your linkage before the shock initiates when you test it on a stand. I can lift my rear wheel about a 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) before the shock initiates. Is this normal? How much play is normal? Could someone with a newer bike check and let me know. I have just bought this bike and I know I have to replace the rear wheel bearings but really don't want to mess with the linkage unless I have to. Thanks.

i have an 06 gasser and i have a little bit of play but not 1/2 inch, sounds to me like you may need new bearings and bushes and im afraid to say that you are going to have to mess about with them, i take mine apart every month and clean and grease them up so that they dont seize up otherwise its 30 quid down the drain due to low maintenance but its a dead easy job just take them out and ava look would be the best bet i think