Fatboy rear shocks

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Jul 23, 2009 | 01:59 PM

handyhoward

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Road Master

Joined: Aug 2007

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From: Emerald Coast, FL

Fatboy rear shocks

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

Jul 24, 2009 | 08:28 AM

tk353

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From: Leander Texas

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

Jul 25, 2009 | 07:11 AM

handyhoward

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Road Master

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From: Emerald Coast, FL

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

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Jul 25, 2009 | 07:40 AM

tk353

Ultimate HDF Member

Joined: Oct 2007

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From: Leander Texas

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

Last edited by tk353; Jul 25, 2009 at 03:07 PM.

Jul 25, 2009 | 08:59 AM

tmitchellof PG

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Joined: Sep 2006

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From: Punta Gorda,FL

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

Jul 27, 2009 | 09:57 AM

coatit

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Joined: Mar 2008

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From: Vancouver Wa

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

Jul 27, 2009 | 11:54 AM

tmitchellof PG

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Joined: Sep 2006

Posts: 3,718

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From: Punta Gorda,FL

Quote:

Originally Posted by coatit

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

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Jul 27, 2009 | 06:55 PM

Dorkman

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Joined: Feb 2007

Posts: 5,578

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From: Northern California

Quote:

Originally Posted by handyhoward

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

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...