Suspension Help!
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Joined: Jul 2010
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From: Brooklyn, New York
Suspension Help!
I finally got the chance to take my Iron out on a 300 mile ride this weekend and had a blast! BUT ... got the **** kicked out of me due to the rough stock suspension! (If you can even call it suspension). I already knew that the ride was rough from previous experience, but after this trip realize just how bad it really is. The roads here in NY are a disaster after the rough winter we just had.
The plan for my next upgrade was a new seat so my girl can come riding with me this summer (she won't stop whining about it). But after this little trip I won't even consider it until I do something about the suspension.
I've spent most of the day searching the forums, and at this point feel like my head is about to explode! Progressive 412's, 440's, RK Air shocks, Fork Spring options etc, etc, etc...
Can anyone help me out and make any suggestions?? I want to upgrade both the rear and front for a complete suspension overhaul.
BTW, I'm not looking for the cheapest option.
Thanks in advance,
John
The plan for my next upgrade was a new seat so my girl can come riding with me this summer (she won't stop whining about it). But after this little trip I won't even consider it until I do something about the suspension.
I've spent most of the day searching the forums, and at this point feel like my head is about to explode! Progressive 412's, 440's, RK Air shocks, Fork Spring options etc, etc, etc...
Can anyone help me out and make any suggestions?? I want to upgrade both the rear and front for a complete suspension overhaul.
BTW, I'm not looking for the cheapest option.
Thanks in advance,
John
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Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 282
Likes: 42
From: Pennsylvania
Keeping with the black theme of the bike, I would go with the RK air shocks, I have 13" ones on my bike but you will need to find a set of 12" ones, I sold a pair two years ago. There out there to be found.
Next I installed a set of works performance front springs, and a fork brace. I hate to say it but even after that your girl wont want to ride with you for more than an hour.
Next I installed a set of works performance front springs, and a fork brace. I hate to say it but even after that your girl wont want to ride with you for more than an hour.
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Joined: Feb 2011
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suspension redo
I have 2005 883 and it always bottomed out on the smallest bump especially in the back .. went the RK route with a set of brand new ones off e bay ... 13 " ones as I am 6'1 and didn't mind the whole bike being taller ... what an improvement ... also have a dual seat so the lady friend can definately go with me now ... haven't don't any thing with the front but do notice it can bottom out at time ... I am in upstate NY and the roads are getting really bad in my area ... sure hope I don't bend a mag rim this summer ... got the bike used in Sept and am just commuting to work right now but even that is fun every day it isn't raining ... good luck enjoy ... my 9th bike since I started riding in 76 ... so far other than the stock suspension being junk ... no complaints ...
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Joined: Jul 2010
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From: Brooklyn, New York
I see a lot of posts saying the stock shocks bottom out on people... I have the exact opposite problem. Mine hardly ever bottomed out on me, the problem is they are so stiff that it's like riding with struts! I'm only about 160# and if I dont get my *** off the seat over big bumps I'd get shot off the bike like a rocket!
Last edited by JohnFromBrooklyn; May 3, 2011 at 10:36 AM.
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Joined: Nov 2006
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From: Wheeling, WV
I see a lot of posts saying the stock shocks bottom out on people... I have the exact opposite problem. Mine have never bottomed out on me, the problem is they are so stiff that it's like riding with struts! I'm only about 160# and if I dont get my *** off the seat over big bumps I'd get shot off the bike like a rocket!
+1 john.....turn those springs out and then see how it feels before you buy something new. if you don't have the wrench drive it to the stealer, they'll adjust it for you. takes all of 2 seconds.....nice freakin' sissy bar btw. was waiting for a pic of that thing on your bike. looks awesome, glad you like it.
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Joined: Jul 2010
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From: Brooklyn, New York
bmxatv, lol I still have to post the new pictures... your sissy bar looks great! I did try and adjust them, I'll try again... but regardless need a whole new suspension setup for this bike. - John
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Joined: Apr 2011
Posts: 38
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From: Florida
I have a set of shocks off the 2006 883r on order. They are 1 3/4" longer and have about the same amout of extra travel. I believe they are the shocks that are on the European Iron. Got a 883r jiffy stand also.
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