I used the Dead Creek Cycle no shock removal lowering kit and slammed the back the full 2"...yes it def. handles and rides different. I live in Montana and there is no such thing as a smooth road, free of pot holes or gravel from winter. Its a cheap way to get the look. Good Luck with whatever you decide

 

__________looks good Sprawl , I used Bolts also

 

i have the cheapo lowering bolts on my bike, i lowered mine about 1" and adjusted the preload and my bike rides just as good. there is actually more travel than people think they just lower it farther than they thought cause 1 inch lower still shows some of the tire.