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Old Feb 16, 2026 | 08:42 AM
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Default Softail Suspension

I recently bought an unmolested 1997 FXSTC from the original owner and was wondering how much you can lower the rear ride hight without affecting the rake and trail. The saddle bags hide the gap between the tire and fender so it's not so noticable.
97 FXSTC
97 FXSTC
 
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Old Feb 16, 2026 | 10:12 AM
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I lowered my 98 Softail Custom 2 inches in the rear and 2 inches in the front. No change in the rake and I've had no problem with the suspension bottoming even on rough Illinois roads. Not to mention that it looks so much better lowered.
 
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Old Feb 16, 2026 | 11:13 AM
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I lowered the rear only with Shotgun Shocks air ride.
Yes, you can see the frame angle but it handles just fine.
And it adds to the chopped look I was going for.
 
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