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Why New Shocks?

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Old Nov 20, 2007 | 08:17 PM
  #1  
Dynamite17's Avatar
Dynamite17
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Default Why New Shocks?

Well the Low Rider is on the lift, Boss Saddlebags installed, connected to the Battery Tender and just asking for more mods. I've read about people installing aftermarket shocks, but why? Is there that much a a ride difference? Not looking to change the height at all.

What's the attraction to new shocks on these bikes? Easy to do while on the lift!

B
 
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Old Nov 20, 2007 | 11:06 PM
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Default RE: Why New Shocks?

ORIGINAL: Dynamite17

Well the Low Rider is on the lift, Boss Saddlebags installed, connected to the Battery Tender and just asking for more mods. I've read about people installing aftermarket shocks, but why? Is there that much a a ride difference? Not looking to change the height at all.

What's the attraction to new shocks on these bikes? Easy to do while on the lift!

B
Really nothing much other than ride quality, handling, load carrying ability, comfort and safety. Do your research and do not rely on other people opinion. Go to a real suspension specialist. Most of them work on sport bikes but the principle is the same. I own a 05 just like yours and my FXR rides and performs like another completely different animal. I do not ride my Dyna unless I have to. Shocks are something very few understand. Go call someone who knows the subject for the real deal.
 
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Old Nov 20, 2007 | 11:12 PM
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Default RE: Why New Shocks?

FastHarley has a very good point. Don't just throw new shocks on it because everybody else is.
If you are satisfied with the ride, I wouldn't change anything until you need new shocks if you are satisfied with what you have.

DougJ
 
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Old Nov 21, 2007 | 05:31 AM
  #4  
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Default RE: Why New Shocks?

I agree don't change for the sake of change. If they wear out and I can't believe some posts I have read on this forum that they wear out at 4k. I had 25k on Roadster and the shocks worked properly. You got to be kidding me that shocks wear out in such a short period of time it would be an utter joke.
 
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Old Nov 21, 2007 | 06:24 AM
  #5  
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Default RE: Why New Shocks?

it's like every one else have said . dont change them if you are happy with them. some do because two up rideing or handeling.but to change them because joe blow did .you got to do what works for you. that is the best part of owning your bike you got to make it you.
 
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Old Nov 21, 2007 | 06:27 AM
  #6  
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From: Backwoods of NH
Default RE: Why New Shocks?


ORIGINAL: Dynamite17

I've read about people installing aftermarket shocks, but why? Is there that much a a ride difference?
YES! World of difference once I installed Progressive rear shocks and front springs - always had the feeling the bike would only go where it wanted with mushy handling and brake diving. Now it feels solid, firmly planted to the road and goes where I want with almost no brake dive. Best performance mod I've done on the bike as far as a noticeable difference next to dyno tuning the engine. Harley shocks are not very good IMO, but if you are happy with them, why change? I wasn't, so I did! Also wanted black shocks, and 1+" lower, so for me a no brainer. And got more than half my money back selling the stock ones at a swap meet.
 
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Old Nov 21, 2007 | 06:39 AM
  #7  
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Default RE: Why New Shocks?

Some people change for Ride height, some for handiling and ride quality, some for looks, ie Black, Chrome, Solid Body Chrome, if you have no issue with performance or looks leave them alone.
 
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Old Nov 21, 2007 | 06:58 AM
  #8  
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Default RE: Why New Shocks?

I believe that the members here have a good point. I work in suspension related field and I would love nothing more than selling you a product that is one of the 2 best in the world. If you do (I am not being a smart azz here, but to convey a thought) not know why you need to change your suspension, the question is already answered for you. You do not. If you are happy with what you have, why change? Suspension changing should only be taken for a need to be filled. Some of the above members obviously have riding experience and were not satisfied with the present situation. Whither it be ride quality, handling, load carrying ability, comfort, rising or lowering the ride height and safety. Read this link and you will get several posts that are less than accurate.https://www.hdforums.com/m_2222039/tm.htm Shocks are something very few understand. The chat and internet provide good and misinformation both to be transmitted. Take all information gleaned here and than go call several knowledgeable companies for additional information. You can not get a good shock cheap, so be prepared. Most stuff out there is nothing but junk in the real world of suspension. Read if interested than ride lots more. You will figure it out in the end, just may cost more money if the wrong route is taken to arrive at the desired destination. That is life.
 
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Old Nov 21, 2007 | 10:56 AM
  #9  
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Default RE: Why New Shocks?

I was satisfied with the OEM shocks on my Bob but changed them to fit in with the other mods done to the scoot. Primarily, just cosmetic. They're easy to do on the ground actually.

[IMG]local://upfiles/22103/D09A31A180724BF898FBBA357C0C4601.jpg[/IMG]
 
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Old Nov 21, 2007 | 12:53 PM
  #10  
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Default RE: Why New Shocks?

huge diff... my brother even tossed my stock shocks on his sporty with them set at the lowest setting and now he LOVES them! i would recomend them strongly! air ride... so so nice!
 
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