Ok so I feel like I need more ground clearance, I grind the crap out of my bike around even the widest of corners, both sides, but the right side more than the left, I think I need more travel, so I guess I want to raise it about an inch. so how tall are the factory shocks on my '10 fxd, and if I go ove 1in in the back will I need to adjust the front or will it just kind of even the bike out?

any ideas on shocks?

 

Don't buy shocks in a box, off the shelf. Chose a supplier who will advise you on suitable shocks and length for you and your bike, who will supply them with the right springs etc. I have Ohlins from HDF sponsor Motorcycle Metal and they are fabulous! Not only can Howard there cure your problems, but give you a better riding experience every mile.

 

 

Good advice Graham. Uprated suspension front and back is the best mod i have done. Lighter alloy rims have done no harm either.

 

+1 on this advice. Howard is great- I have Ohins shocks from him- 13.2" which are 1" longer than the original. It raised the rear and gave me more clearance. Also made the steering a bit quicker but didn't change the rake/trail. Steering is still rock solid. If you buy from MotorcycleMetal you'll get custom shocks set to your weight and riding style. Jay

 

You can also look into RICOR suspension ... they have a great product also.

 

Yep. I know from personal experience the Ricors are better. The Ohlins are a good close second though.

 

Do some research and consider all the opinions and facts you gather. The right suspension will make a significant difference in the performance and quality of the ride.

As others have advised, check out motorcyclemetal.com. Howard is the most knowledgeable person I've spoken with regarding suspension.

Good luck.

 

Just for the budget minded guy, you can properly setup your fork sag with a properly measured Schedule 40 PVC spacer as a replacement for your stock metal spacer and add thicker fluid 15wt or 20 wt and net some great results. My forks sagged 5/8 too much for my weight.
I switched to an 18/21 Combo with stock shocks and I never drag anymore.

 

Boomerbob has been telling us his story about his Ohlins for quite some time now. I have no experience of Ricors because my Ohlins are so much better than I hoped for, but then I have the next price level up to Bob. If Ohlins are good enough for new BMWs, they are good enough for me!