I'm thinking about changing the rears on my FDXC to the Burly 10.5s

the end goal is to lower the bike a couple inches in order to make it a little easier for my wife to ride.

are there any real negatives to lowering the bike or using these shocks to bring it down that I'm not thinking about?

 

Hopefully some will chime in with some positive advice. Im still stock with my street bob but i have road lowered bikes in the past. Normally from what i have expereinced and read if you lower the bike it usually rides a little firmer and doesnt have as much travel. Depending on the method you choose to lower it and how much. You dont wanna lower it very much because the worse it gets. An i have seen people lower them to much and then the tire rubs the inner fender. Also changes the geometry of the bike therefore changes the handling when riding.
One thing i know for sure because i have lifted and lower MANY trucks. Anytime you lift or lower something from stock no matter the brand it will have pros and cons. An you get what you pay for in the suspension world.

 

Some good points from hollandhunter. You're gonna lose about half the suspension travel on those shocks. So not only will the ride be harsher but it will be easier to bottom out, especially riding two up. I wasn't clear if you meant your wife will be riding the bike herself, or as a passenger. You could consider a different seat, boots with thicker soles, or just lowering it less.

 

she want's to ride it solo. she has the skillset but is 5'4" and a little worried about being at the end of her reach when putting her feet down.

We're looking for a way to get the saddle closer to the ground so she can get more 'purchase' with her feet and a little wider, more stable stance.

 

Contact Mean City Cycles. They are excellent at modifying stock or aftermarket seats to get what you need.

 

Yep,like he said try to get the footing through a seat mod first. The slammers will work but she may not care for the ride that much.

 

I'll give mean street a cal Monday, they are closed now...

thanks for the input

 

I've never heard anyone mention it, but low profile tires might also be an option. You wouldn't lose suspension, but you'd still give up lean angle.

 

I put the slammer kit (front and back) on my 07 FXD about 2 months ago. Flat footing is much easier and I have noticed a slight difference in handling, I say slight because I am not one to really push the ride, just take it easy. I did scrap a couple times turning out of parking lots but that is a self correcting error. The ride is noticeably, you feel those small bumps and holes. I have ridden 2up once and did not bottom out. Prior to the slammer kit I bought a Saddleman heels down seat, it also helped.

 

Suspension of course and a seat that is narrow in the nose also makes a huge difference in getting your feet flat on the ground. Message me if you'd like to chat more about this , happy to help .
Buster / Saddlemen