The first two upgrades to our '01 Sporty will be a Mustang seat and a set of 11 inch shocks. I thought about the Burly 10.5, but at 5'6, I think the wife will be fine with 11s, and I would rather have the little extra clearance and ride quality. That being said, we are setting the bike up for total solo riding. Solo seat and all. If I opt for the 11 inch Progressive 412s, are the standard shocks the best choice given both the wife and me are under 200lbs? Progressive says the standard shocks are fine up to 225, but I see quite a few solo only guys still opt for the HD versions. Any input on which route, and why.

 

I've always heard people who got the HD version felt they were too stiff for solo or "lighter" loads. Some even bought them because they thought they stood for "Harley Davidson". I'd try the normal ones first, especially if you're going with 11s which aren't that much travel to begin with.

 

Thanks, that was my concern. I pretty much HAVE to lower it for her because she doesn't like it as high as it is, and given the age and value of the bike, I just can't justify expensive shocks. She can touch the gound, but not flat footed, and I am sure a well padded seat will make the problem worse. I guess standard duty it shall be.

 

C'mon, you know better than that!

 

Lol, yes I do. But this is the wifes bike. She has set the budget. And when the wifes sets the budget, well.......

 

That's a tough life you lead.......

 

Why not try a set of air shocks from an old HD cruiser instead? Save you $$$

 

I would, but I don't think Harley ever made an 11 inch air shock, and besides a better ride, she really needs to lower it a bit.

 

The width of the seat will make a difference to how well she gets her feet down too. A properly shaped firm seat can be more comfortable over the miles than one of those mushy pillow seats they sell. I usually find a seat that feels comfy in the first ten seconds is a nightmare after 50 miles, whereas a seat that feels supportive but a bit hard settles in after about 15 minutes and feels better over the long haul. They often don't add as much height either.

 

Do you have a suggestion that's perhaps better than the Mustang Studded solo? I have always had good luck with the Mustangs. I have considered sending the stock seat to Mean City as they have a great reputation for improving the stock seats.