I just swapped out my stock shocks on my 2004 FXDL for Works 13.5 Trackers. I love the way the new shocks handle but it has just made me more aware of how bad the forks perform in stock form. I was planning on at least doing a set of new progressive springs and heavier fork oil but now I'm also tempted to go 2 over on some new fork tubes to gain some travel and even out the bike after the lift the new shocks gave the rear. Anyone gone 2 over on their fork tubes to compensate for taller rear shocks on their Low Rider? Any recommendations on fork springs? Im not sure if Im ready to spend the $$ on a cartridge set up.

 

Intiminators and Traxxion straight rate springs for the front. A lower front will make turning faster. Bike will lean more on jiffy stand. A set of longer tubes seems to be personal preference. Let us know what you decide and how it works out.

 

Thanks for the suggestion I'll definitely take a look at that. I did notice that there is a lot more vibration coming up through the bars after I switched the shocks. Could it be more weight placed on the already crappy front springs?

 

You could put PVC spacers on top of your stock springs, as a first step.(if you haven't already.) That is almost free and will lift your front. Play with the lengths to get the ride you like. A little heavier oil will help too, 'tho it will stiffen too much if you go too thick on the oil.

 

When I put 13.5" rears on my '04 FXDL I did the Progressive springs, heavier oil, and properly setting preload with spacers. Big improvement. As you say, cartridges or longer tubes might be nice but I had other priorities. Let us know if you do something different.

 

I think I'm going to go with the Racetech spring kit with the gold valve emulators right away. Once the weather turns I plan on going 2 over on the tubes so I wont mind having the bike down for a few days if the weather is super crappy. I really appreciate all of the responses and i'll update when I make any changes. Maybe i'll get the sliders powdercoated black once i get them off to do the tubes. Hell, might as well do the trees as well if I go that far.

 

i think with the new springs and valves you will be happy with the ride. i personally would never extend the tubes unless i was changing the rake at the same time