I want to lower the rear of my bike a little, but Progressive Suspension doesn't list a 11-1/2" shock for my '85 FXWG, only 11" & 12". 11" is too short, 12" is stock. Ohlins makes shocks any way you want them, but they're way out of my price range. I wonder if shocks for a different bike (FLH maybe?) would fit. I'm sure the spring rates and valving are different for heavier/lighter bikes, but do they use the same size mounting bolts etc.? If anybody's tried this, let me know. Thanks!

 

First, let me say I LOVE that exhaust setup. I'm working on something similar and need all the inspiration I can get. As far as shocks.....giant flame wars go on over them. If your like me and simply want Progressives, they make both 418 and 440 series shocks for your bike in the 11.5 range. There are also a bunch of site sponsors that can give you great deals like Motorcycle metal on quality custom shocks in any length you want. Works Shocks for example. Many people here rave about Ohlins and I raced a Penske on my Buell for years. Contact Motorcycle Metal and talk to them.

 

A happy customer of Motorcycle Metal here! The shorter you go on shocks, the less suspension travel you will get, to absorb those inevitable bumps and thumps. So you should consider fitting better quality shocks, to get the most out of what little you have.

Don't buy shocks in a box off the shelf! Get them from a custom builder who will ensure you get the most out of them. That way you won't find yourself looking for 'better' shocks a few weeks down the line!

 

I put a pair of H.D. shocks on my 96 from a guy on Craigslist-$80.00. They were brand new off a screamin' eagle Fat Bob maybe? Either way,they are great shocks for cheap!

 

I bought the cheap progressive 11" house brand shocks from Drag Specialties to replace the 10" it came with. The ride improved a lot and no more belt/guard/fender rubbing/hitting and the brake caliper doesn't hit the bottom of the fender anymore.

 

Widegliderider-Check your private messages, got a question for you.

Thanks

 

Thanks for the tips. I'm looking for ways to make the bike more highway-friendly (for long trips with the wife) without sacrificing the "Cool Factor". The Works shocks might be just what I'm looking for.

 

dyna stuff doesn't work for the original poster.


I've had the 11" Progressives on my 85 FXWG for years without issues. Why do you say they would be too low?

 

Woah there! I have a theory about riding 2-up. The rider sits well forward in the bike, compared with the hapless passenger, who is sitting right over the rear wheel axle. They each get a very different riding experience. If you are planning to ride with your very best ever friend on the back you need to make sure she is comfortable! VERY comfortable.

Check what happens when you both sit on your bike, as it is at present. Measure say the height of the top of the rear shock from the ground with the bike upright, but nobody on it. Repeat with you on it, then again with both of you on it. You will be better off with a third person for this! How much shock travel did you lose?

Fit shorter shocks and you reduce yet further the travel before your WIFE gets a thump in a delicate place. If you want to FEEL cool, get longer better quality shocks! Far better to be comfortable and want to ride again than want time to recover! Worked for me and my wife.

 

Took the shocks loose and lowered the bike on a lift until everything looked right and then measured btween the mounting points. 11.5" is what I came up with. Got any pictures of your Wide Glide with the 11"s on it? Thanks for your insight too, Graham. You've got a good point.