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Front Suspension Recommendations

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Old Jul 5, 2019 | 03:08 PM
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Default Front Suspension Recommendations

Ok, I just installed Progressive 412's on the rear of my 2014 Sportster 72 and now considering upgrading the Front Suspension. After installing the rear's I have noticed the front really dips down when braking hard and when going over dumps. So i'm looking for recommendations on Brand, Proper Length and anything else you can think of. I do not want to lower or raise the front.
All suggestions, recommendations will greatly be appreciated.
 
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Old Jul 5, 2019 | 03:20 PM
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I would look at the Progressive Monotube suspension to compliment your 412s https://www.progressivesuspension.co...e-kit-standard
 
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Old Jul 5, 2019 | 06:45 PM
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The monotubes will help, or for half the price replace the springs with something geared to your weight and ride style.
 
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Old Jul 5, 2019 | 07:08 PM
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Originally Posted by whylee
The monotubes will help, or for half the price replace the springs with something geared to your weight and ride style.
I ride solo 50 percent of the time, i weight 140 lbs and my wife is about 120 lbs, so 260lbs two up. In Idaho we
have alot mountain switchback roads, during the week i do mostly around town back and forth to work and weekends mountain riding.
Would there be any advantage with mono tubes over just changing springs.
 
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Old Jul 5, 2019 | 10:32 PM
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Originally Posted by mmesa005
I would look at the Progressive Monotube suspension to compliment your 412s https://www.progressivesuspension.co...e-kit-standard
Second that recommendation.
 
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Old Jul 7, 2019 | 11:17 AM
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I haven't tried the mono tubes, but a set fof progressive front fork springs, standard weight made a huge difference. A Well spent $100. I'm about 200 lbs, almost never carry a passenger. Given you and your wifes light weight, I'd consider a set of the standard springs with some preload adjustable fork caps. Just screw in some preload when you ride two up.
 
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Old Jul 7, 2019 | 01:07 PM
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I like the springs myself. I have used the mono tubes and was not really impressed. The springs offer more adjustability in the way of more weights available. Also you can use different spacers, different weight oils, preload adjusters and valves that can be adjusted. With the mono tubes they are what they are and you only set preload.
 
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Old Jul 8, 2019 | 08:46 AM
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Thanks for all the input, I am going to try new springs and adjusters. Anything has got to be better than stock setup.
 
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Old Jul 8, 2019 | 09:10 AM
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The Progressive brand spring are a great step...less than $100.
Buy the proper fork cap removal socket...$15. makes the install so much easier.

Depending on your riding weight one can add or reduce the spacer length to set proper "sag".

Experimenting with fork oil weight can be of benefit in regards to riding compression & rebound action.
I forget the HD type letters yet I believe F is 10 weight and Heavy Duty is 19 weight.
I think HD Heavy Duty is too heavy and don't recommend.
Any name brand fork oil will do and note the weight can be purchased in .5 increment from 5 to 20 even wider range.

One can also experiment with fork oil level.
Buy the proper tool...$15.
Don't under fill and be careful over filling as over fill will "pop" a fork seal.

I can't comment about the Mono Tube product or can't comment about modifying/ drilling the size of the tube orifice opening.

FWIW I added the springs, did not modify the spacer, went with 12 weight and raised the oil level 1/3 of an inch.
That worked for me in regards to reducing front end dive.

Good luck, enjoy your suspension tuning project!
 
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Old Jul 9, 2019 | 07:55 AM
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Originally Posted by Kenny94945
The Progressive brand spring are a great step...less than $100.
Buy the proper fork cap removal socket...$15. makes the install so much easier.

Depending on your riding weight one can add or reduce the spacer length to set proper "sag".

Experimenting with fork oil weight can be of benefit in regards to riding compression & rebound action.
I forget the HD type letters yet I believe F is 10 weight and Heavy Duty is 19 weight.
I think HD Heavy Duty is too heavy and don't recommend.
Any name brand fork oil will do and note the weight can be purchased in .5 increment from 5 to 20 even wider range.

One can also experiment with fork oil level.
Buy the proper tool...$15.
Don't under fill and be careful over filling as over fill will "pop" a fork seal.

I can't comment about the Mono Tube product or can't comment about modifying/ drilling the size of the tube orifice opening.

FWIW I added the springs, did not modify the spacer, went with 12 weight and raised the oil level 1/3 of an inch.
That worked for me in regards to reducing front end dive.

Good luck, enjoy your suspension tuning project!
Kenny,
Thanks for the information. Can you advise what the approximate length of the spacer should be for Sag. I weigh !45 lbs and wife weighs 120. Two up 50% of the time total weight 265lbs.
 
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