I fitted new shock absorbers from a supplier who attends a lot of shows selling instruments and shocks. Cant remember the make now but they look good quality replicas. NJC comes to mind as a maker but might be wrong.
I think the bike feels stiff as i compare it too the much better T120r Hagon and progressive forks plus the radial tyres . It handles very well as it should do. These A65s do have a very smooth gearbox so when i put the home made gear lever on, it will be riding a bit more.