I bought my 2012 1200 Custom used. This is my first Harley so I'm discovering things that were added to the bike. I just realized today that a lowering kit was put on it.

My question is this. Does it really make a difference if I leave it on there compared to stock? It has the stock shocks on it. I wouldn't mind a taller bike since I'm 6'2.

I know that I could just take them off and see what it looks like. I'm curious what you all think.

 

It should ride better with the correct shock angle the bike was designed for.

 

What Guzzi said,if you don't need it don't use it.

 

I'd take it off. I wouldn't want to reduce my lean angle anymore than it already is.

 

I agree that stock is the better choice.

 

Another one for stock.
I've used one of those lower kits before. They do a good job of lowering the seat but they cause the shock not to work as it should. A shorter progressive shock is much better but also a lot more expensive.

 

Thank you for the responses. I was leaning that way and you all just confirmed what I wanted to do. Thanks!

 

With the lowering blocks you have the following:

A bit softer ride due to a better shock angle for absorbing the bumps

Less lean angle before scraping

Feet closer to the ground when stopped


Without the lowering blocks you have the following:

A bit harsher ride because of the inferior stock shocks and shock angle

Better lean angle before scraping

A bit quicker (more responsive) steering

Feet further from the ground when stopped


So it depends on which benefits you want.

 

Thanks for the input. Still sounds like I want to take them off. I plan on changing out the shocks so that will take out the one negative you mentioned.

 

True that!