I'm looking for a way to close the gap between the rear fender and wheel without using lowered shocks or lowering blocks.

I thought about it, and would it be possible to pull off the fender, close up the strut mounts with some bondo, drill in some new mounds an inch or so higher and effectively bring down the fender?


I have tried 11" shocks in the past but it was too low, stiff and handling went to hell. I'm also reluctant to use lowering blocks as my girl likes to ride with me from time to time, it just doesn't seem like a safe option.

 

Lots of work but sure, you can do it. I wouldn't use bondo though, weld in new metal and finish it that way, bondo won't work like you think it will for filling the holes. When you get the fender off, I suggest you might as well re-route the wiring for the turn sigs and tail light down one or both the struts outside of the fender to eliminate the risk of the tire contacting them during compression. Take some measurements and cycle the suspension before redrilling your new holes.


Good luck and post pics, I really hate the look of my bike after I took the lowering blocks off (which sucked BTW) and I really want to fit some 13" shocks on it which will make it look even worse, so I'm interested in seeing what you come up with.

 

I'll definately get to it, although it may take me a month or two.

I love the new fender, but it looks goofy with decent rear suspension on it.

 

Yes, looks great slammed but I like to hit the corners with some speed.


I was either going to go with a full fender but I really like the chopped look. The other choice would be to cut the struts and mount the fender to the swing arm, give the low look but you lose your ability to carry a passenger.

Looks like this your option!

 

Love the look of the fender closer to the tire. haven't pulled the trigger on suspension yet. Curious to see how this goes.

 

Buzz kill...

 

Keep in mind your seat may not line up properly if you drop your fender down.

 

Bigger wheel and 1/2"-1" lowering block or shocks

 

I think if you angled it in the rear, this might not be an issue. Otherwise, seats mods might be called for. Then again, I haven't done this so it may not work, did not think of the seat mounting issues that would need to be addressed.

 

I think this eliminates the blocks/lower shocks:

I have tried 11" shocks in the past but it was too low, stiff and handling went to hell. I'm also reluctant to use lowering blocks as my girl likes to ride with me from time to time, it just doesn't seem like a safe option.


He wants the bike to still ride good and I agree with him, lower shocks and blocks suck when it comes to handling and ride quality.