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Does lowering effect the ride?

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Old Jun 15, 2012 | 09:39 PM
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Default Does lowering effect the ride?
So if I lower my Slim with one of the lowering kits does it effect the ride. I only weight 175 sopping wet so I think I leave it on the lowest rebound setting without worrying about bottoming out.
I want to lower it but don't want to regret it cuz the ride gets worse
 
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Old Jun 15, 2012 | 09:43 PM
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With bolts? Yes
 
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Old Jun 15, 2012 | 09:48 PM
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I'm lowered 2" front and rear. The ride changes quite a bit. I used the bolts in the rear, and increased the preload a bit to prevent bottoming out. The ride is stiffer, and big bumps will pop you out the seat a bit, but it's not entirely uncomfortable. A benefit is the bike feels lighter and handles a bit better IMO.
 
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Old Jun 15, 2012 | 09:53 PM
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Is this kit http://www.softailloweringkit.com/ the same as "bolts"
 
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Old Jun 15, 2012 | 10:07 PM
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Originally Posted by hank-hill
Is this kit http://www.softailloweringkit.com/ the same as "bolts"
In terms of ride quality, yes. That kit will only get you 1.5" lower where the bolts will enable a full 2" drop. Plus the bolts are a lot cheaper, got mine on eBay for around $20, but the kit is a little easier to install from what I can tell.

Edit: and it doesn't look like the kit is fully adjustable, it just drops 1.5". The bolts allow you to adjust the ride height to dial in handling and comfort.
 
Last edited by jreichart; Jun 15, 2012 at 10:09 PM.
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Old Jun 15, 2012 | 10:12 PM
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Well thanks for the tips, I ride about 400 miles a week so I am gonna scrap the lowering idea. Love the look but but need comfort more.
 
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Old Jun 15, 2012 | 10:14 PM
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Definitely.
 
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Old Jun 15, 2012 | 11:54 PM
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Yup. It hurts the ride.
I tried a few combos too.


Maybe air (Shotgun?) or one of em, but $$$$$$$$$$$$$$
I only took a short ride on one w/air. It was nice.

But even if you can smooth the ride out, then you have no ground
clearance.
 
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Old Jun 16, 2012 | 12:35 AM
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Lowing will effect your ground clearance and lean angle.
 
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Old Jun 16, 2012 | 12:50 AM
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When I lowered my Deluxe an additional inch, the ride became a little stiffer but the bike actually handles better and is more fun to ride.
 
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