If someone would direct me how to determine if my shocks are performing properly, I would certainly appreciate it.

 

from what i was told the bike should drop about 1 in when you sit on it

 

At 6'2"-270lbs most things drop at least an inch when I sit on them... however I get what you're saying... I'll have someone smaller sit so I can watch... thanks

 

yep i am 6ft 251 and most things drop an inch when i sit on them but they dont return...........
my factory setting is half way

 

Have you adjusted the shock's preload for your weight. The shocks come from the factory set at the softest setting, which is good for around 185 pounds. This setting is ideal for me, since that is what I weigh. When my wife rides with me, I turn the shock body 3 full turns, which seems to give the best ride, without bottoming when the 2 of us are riding.
Here is a link:
http://www.fatbillscustoms.com/
Tom

 

Super!!!!
Thanks tmichellof PG. I am 5'7" @ 280 lbs..... I was just looking into pre-load and you were very helpful. GREAT PICS!!
Now to just get rid of the stock seat and get something low enough to stand flat footed...
Curse of a the stubby legs. LOL

 

If this is the first time your shocks have been adjusted, you may need to use a heat gun on the retention nuts to break the loctite loose.
When I adjust my preload, I just barely snug the retention nut when I am done. It has never come loose. I have no idea why HD puts loctite on the retention nuts.
Tom

 

can my 09 shocks be adjusted?

 

Lots of good info already mentioned, especially FatBills website. Simplest way I know of knowing when the shocks are not firm enough: Hit a good bump and feel the rear end go clunk and jar your tailbone...