Progressive suspension query
Thread Starter
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,394
Likes: 0
From: Bristol UK
Progressive suspension query
I have an XL1200C and have no problems with the suspension when riding solo (I'm a lightwieght at 126lbs). However, I've recently managed to puruade my wife on the back HOORAY!! (an additional 140lbs).
 \\;
When two up the suspension is bottoming out on the slightest bump in the road which is a real pain.
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From my reading here Progressive shocks appear to be the answer. However, I think I also saw someone mention that you couldnt use the preload adjuster with saddle bag supports, which I have and need. Is this true, and does it apply to all the various rear shocks available or only some?
 \\;
Grateful for any input and recommendadtions.
 \\;
When two up the suspension is bottoming out on the slightest bump in the road which is a real pain.
 \\;
From my reading here Progressive shocks appear to be the answer. However, I think I also saw someone mention that you couldnt use the preload adjuster with saddle bag supports, which I have and need. Is this true, and does it apply to all the various rear shocks available or only some?
 \\;
Grateful for any input and recommendadtions.
Grand HDF Member
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 4,599
Likes: 421
From: Lansing mi
RE: Progressive suspension query
I have 12.5" Progressive SD shocks. I ride solo 180 lbs they really don't do much to make the bike ride smoother but they did stop the bottoming out. With 2 on it at 266 lbs you may need to get the HD shocks. As for the saddlebag supports, I have them to, and I can still use the preload adjuster just have to be a bit more careful of where you hook the adjuster to the shock, it's no big deal...
Tourer
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 368
Likes: 2
From: Salina, KS
RE: Progressive suspension query
I just installed a set of Progressive 240 HD's about two weeks ago on my Custom. \\; I selected the 12" model.
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I weigh about 240 - 250, and ride only single. \\; I have the progressives set in the middle, and they did smooth the ride quite a bit. \\; If I move the preload up one notch, it stiffens the ride quite a bit. \\; I haven't yet tried lower.
 \\;
I like them. \\; Easy install, better looking than stock, and greatly helped solve the sore butt issue.
 \\;
 \\;
I weigh about 240 - 250, and ride only single. \\; I have the progressives set in the middle, and they did smooth the ride quite a bit. \\; If I move the preload up one notch, it stiffens the ride quite a bit. \\; I haven't yet tried lower.
 \\;
I like them. \\; Easy install, better looking than stock, and greatly helped solve the sore butt issue.
 \\;
Road Master
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 1,060
Likes: 0
From: Gahanna, OH
RE: Progressive suspension query
First thing you need to do is adjust your pre-load - it is the part that turns on the bottom - gget t spanner from HD or use xome channel locks &\\; leather to turn it to the highest setting (both sides)- you should be ok w/ 270 lb total and stock shocks in regards to bottoming out.
Thread Starter
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Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Aug 2007
Posts: 3,394
Likes: 0
From: Bristol UK
RE: Progressive suspension query
Thanks all, it actually only occured to me to try changing the preload on the standard shocks after posting my initial question (I would claim to have been having a blonde moment, but am so follicly challemged no one woul believe that).
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However, I've run into difficulty. I've done loads of searches on google but cant find the adjuster tool anywhere. I bought a so called universal one from a shop over here but its too big. By which I mean the lug fits into the groove on the adjuster ring fine, but the handle hits the belt guard before I've turned it sufficiently.
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If anyone has a link to a web site where I can order one I'd be extreemly grateful. Im Englans so it would have to be a site which will ship goods abroad.
 \\;
Thanks for any help you can give.
 \\;
However, I've run into difficulty. I've done loads of searches on google but cant find the adjuster tool anywhere. I bought a so called universal one from a shop over here but its too big. By which I mean the lug fits into the groove on the adjuster ring fine, but the handle hits the belt guard before I've turned it sufficiently.
 \\;
If anyone has a link to a web site where I can order one I'd be extreemly grateful. Im Englans so it would have to be a site which will ship goods abroad.
 \\;
Thanks for any help you can give.
Cruiser
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 208
Likes: 9
From:
RE: Progressive suspension query
 \\;A large pair of channel lock pliers &\\; a shop towel to save the chrome are all you really need to adjust your shocks.
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Road Warrior
Joined: Jan 2008
Posts: 1,387
Likes: 1
From: Saint George, Utah
RE: Progressive suspension query
I bought mine off ebay, but you should be able to put your current adjuster in more than one spot to adjust.
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