suspension upgrade options
Thread Starter
|
6th Gear
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 11
Likes: 0
From: Utah
suspension upgrade options
I'm looking to get a dyna, and one of the first things I want to do is beef up the suspension and handling. I have seen a few dynas on this site with what seem to be longer travel, performance rear suspension, kind of like what the t-sports have. Suspension is just something I don't know much about so I'm looking for a little advice. What should I start looking at as far as handling upgrades? Can I just switch out the rear? Or will I be unhappy if I don't do the front as well?
Tourer
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 481
Likes: 51
Whether you'll be happy with just a rear upgrade is up to you. My FXDC has 12" prog 444s, and I'm not going any further. The ride is much better than stock, but not ideal. I'm just getting too old, and don't ride enough, to put more money into the bike. I certainly would, though, if I was wealthy.
I've had 13" Ricors with Intiminators up front, and did not get extended tubes. I got used to it easily enough, but I would have done more if I were younger or wealthy.
It's all a trade off. You should start with some good rear shocks like trackers, jri, ohlins, then improve elsewhere as the mood strikes. But, don't rule out 13" shocks because you're not going to get extended tubes right away. The extra travel makes a huge difference. Good luck.
I've had 13" Ricors with Intiminators up front, and did not get extended tubes. I got used to it easily enough, but I would have done more if I were younger or wealthy.
It's all a trade off. You should start with some good rear shocks like trackers, jri, ohlins, then improve elsewhere as the mood strikes. But, don't rule out 13" shocks because you're not going to get extended tubes right away. The extra travel makes a huge difference. Good luck.
Cruiser
Joined: Apr 2012
Posts: 185
Likes: 21
From: NorCal
I recently installed Ricor Intimidators in my 2001 FXDP 39mm front end. The front was in good shape, no leaks, but bounced and dived pretty bad. The new 5WT fluid and the Intimidators were a substantial improvement. So much of an improvement I can feel how crappy the 14 year old OEM shocks are.
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 9,279
Likes: 1,139
From: southeast PA
The most knowledgeable person I know when it comes to suspensions on these bikes is Howard at Motorcycle Metal, also is a sponsor here. Check out his website but give him a call. He'll spend as much time on the phone with you as you need.
I got my Ohlins from him and he set them up for how and what I ride.
http://www.motorcyclemetal.com/
I got my Ohlins from him and he set them up for how and what I ride.
http://www.motorcyclemetal.com/
Seasoned HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2014
Posts: 5,809
Likes: 2,549
From: UK
Also look at Hagon rear shocks. In particular, the Nitros. I put a pair of 13" on my FXDF and the difference is night and day. Good fully adjustable shocks and lower price than Progressive or Ohlins.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 7,138
Likes: 26
From: Southern Oregon
I picked up a set of new progressive 970's for 700.00 and love the things. Most people here seems to group all the progressive shocks into the same catagory. The 970 is a great shock. Ive been over curbs, R/R crossings, pot holes with no need to stand up on the mids.
Road Master
Joined: Nov 2011
Posts: 882
Likes: 126
From: Hahira Ga
Coming from sportsters, which I am still a fan of, changing shocks was a first order change. I was dreading having to do so when I got my new street Bob recently, to my surprise I find the rear shocks comfortable. They came set on the softest setting, I cranked them up 2 notches and am satisfied. I am 210lbs. So maybe you won't have to.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
Crimson
Touring Models
41
Jan 11, 2024 03:52 PM
