Considering finally upgrading my OEM shocks on my 2005 Roadster to something better, especially for long road trips with gear on the back?
Any suggestions?? Or vendors that are reasonable in prices??

Also considering fork braces...

Anyone out there who recommends them?? suggestions?? Brands??

Thanks in advance..

Randy

 

I tried a couple different sets of rear shocks on my 04 1200r , I have the ohlins rear shocks now .I also have the ricor intiminators and works dual rate fork springs up front with a superbrcae fork brace. I also like running a steering damper on my bikes .I Am now happy with the way the bike rides and handles . This also might help http://xlforum.net/vbportal/forums/s...d.php?t=642410

 

I tried the XL1200S shocks on my '05 XL1200R and have now installed the Progressive 412's and like them just fine - infintely better than stock. I also installed the Progressive fork springs for a big front-end improvement. I haven't put the fork brace on because I'm not sold on its supposed benefit.

 

Progressive springs with 10-15 wt. fork oil, RK Showa air shocks, and a Superbrace. You just missed the group buy. :\

 

What size did you end up going with?

 

Definitely read these seven pages of suspension that Turn8 linked you to. Great read here. I am redoing the suspension on my roadster right now along with some other stuff. Decided on the ricor intiminators, and ordered a set of 1200c shocks off ebay for $40 to do the whittlebeast shocks, which is also linked in the seven pages of suspension on the xlforums. I'll be getting some progressive front springs as well, with the preload adjustable fork caps too. I know this won't be a sportbike, but coming from that community, I definitely place a priority on handling.

 

This wasn't answered, so I thought i'd bump it.
I measured my stock shocks on my '05 1200R and they are 13.25". Thats while its on the stand. Progressive (and most others) only sell 13" and 13.5". I'm assuming that i'd be safe to buy the 13.5 and the .25" of inch will be made up by just the weight of the bike.

Anyone have any input going for their roadster?

 

I went with Burly Slammers on my '06 883R. They're decent for the money since I just wanted to slam my bike but still retain some travel for bumps. Progressive would offer more products and adjustability but they also cost a bit more. It really depends on what theme you're going for.

 

Most are pretty happy with the Progressive 412 replacement shocks.
According to their website , you would need 13.5" for the Roadster.
Most aftermarket shocks give the option of standard and heavy duty springs , figure your weight and load and passenger if that applies.
I have a set of 13" electra glide air shocks on mine , they are way better than stock (that's a no brainer on a '48) and really cheap to try.
Being as they are for a 900 lb bike , they can be set for almost any load on a sportster easily with a shock pump.
There are many shocks that are better performance than the 412's , but you pay for the ride dearly as you get better shock action.
Mick