Shorter shocks?
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Joined: Oct 2009
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From: Hastings Nebraska
Shorter shocks?
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!
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Joined: Jun 2007
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From: Richmond, VA
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!
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From: Bedford UK
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!
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!
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Joined: Mar 2010
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From: SoCal hi desert
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.
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Joined: Oct 2009
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From: Hastings Nebraska
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.
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Joined: Apr 2007
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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?
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From: Bedford UK
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.
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Joined: Oct 2009
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From: Hastings Nebraska
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.
