I ride a 2005 FXDCi and looking to upgrade the suspension on my bike. Commuting to work I will put 90-100 miles a day just to and from work with about 70 miles of highway and the rest is twisties. I am about 170lbs and I ride 2-up about 20%-25% of the time with my wife about 145lbs. We will take weekend trips and such like that. Everything is stock right now. Looking to go with a 13"+ rear springs. I am really considering the Progressive 444 13" for about $450 but for about $150 more I can get the Ohlins S36E 13 3/8" from Dynamic Dyna. As far as the front goes, I am completely lost as to what I should do upfront. I don't totally understand the preload adjusters, intiminators, and emulators for the front end. I am trying to make a noticeable difference but still not drop too much. Can't afford to spend almost 1500-2000 on a suspension setup like some have. Thanks for the help.

 

go for the ohlins if it's within your budget. Comparing apples and oranges when you start throwing Ohlins in the mix.

Do the rear first, see how the bike sits. As you get to ride the bike a bit more on your new suspension, you'll notice (or not notice) what you may want out of your front suspension. There is no need to do both rear and front at the same time. Make an educated decision after you put a few thousand miles on your rear setup and see the difference first.


I have the ohlins...and haven't looked back or regretted my decision. You gotta pay to play.

 

Seems like good advice with the front first. I'm also looking at possibly buying a pair of FXDX shocks off the forum. I don't need anything that is too crazy high end. I ride moderately aggressive but no wheelies and stuff like that. Mainly just looking to be able to ride for longer periods of time.