Does an inch really make a difference?

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Nov 4, 2012 | 05:57 AM

#11

Lilman

Road Captain

Joined: May 2010

Posts: 591

Likes: 23

From: Statesboro, GA

My front and rear are lowered 1". It made a difference to me, but I am short! My setup is 1" drop monotubes in front with Ohlin #3-#3 in rear on a LA Chopper 1" drop kit. The LA Chopper kit is the only kit I will use or recommend. It does not change the shock angle, you just have to pay particular attention to the shock spacing and especially alignment when installing the shocks. They have to be perfectly aligned top to bottom or you risk shock damage or poor performance.

I have drug the floorboards but only in tight twisties or u-turns.

Nov 4, 2012 | 06:06 AM

#12

tj316

Stellar HDF Member

Joined: Feb 2010

Posts: 3,121

Likes: 489

From: sunny florida

My Roadglide came with 12" shocks , I went to 13" Ohlins and got a GREAT ride , just switched to 12" JRI and the ride is equal if not slightly better than with the Ohlins

Nov 4, 2012 | 06:07 AM

#13

Chunker

Road Warrior

Joined: Apr 2011

Posts: 1,905

Likes: 66

From: Hartford, AL

I had my FLHTK lowered front and rear before I took possession. I test rode both heights and preferred the lowered bike. Also bought a Mustang Lowdown but not good for me in seat cushion after a couple hours. Did not like the 12" air shocks and removed them for the Progressive 940. Description says 12" shock with 13" travel. Seems to work. Also have now the Mustang Wide touring seat which is comfortable. When the nose of the seat is narrow you can get you feet flatfooted better. It can be a puzzle with lowered front, rear and seat combinations. Before going the 940 route, talk to the Progressive folks. A rep at a rally told me they worked best on the heavy touring, like what I have. They do have different springs for them too.

Edit: I am not an overly aggressive rider and have no problems with anything scraping.

Last edited by Chunker; Nov 4, 2012 at 06:13 AM.

Nov 4, 2012 | 06:09 AM

#14

jus2anoyu

Outstanding HDF Member

Joined: Aug 2008

Posts: 2,090

Likes: 7

Lowering your bike 1" will significantly reduce your lean angle. If you ride aggressively in curves,you will miss what you lost. My bike is stock height, and I just installed Michelin commander II'S on it. They are a little taller than the dunlops. Enough so that I noticed more lean angle before the boards scrape. I'm sure it's less than an inch, and it's noticeable....

Nov 4, 2012 | 06:13 AM

#15

Garemlin

Ultimate HDF Member

Joined: May 2006

Posts: 8,558

Likes: 11

From: Delaware

Quote:

Originally Posted by OldEnuf2NoBtr

I thought this post was going in a different direction! Sorry. Continue on.

Oh it will after the question has been answered. Threads with loaded titles always do.

Nov 4, 2012 | 11:53 AM

#16

Ape Hangers

Cruiser

Joined: Oct 2012

Posts: 223

Likes: 0

From: Albuquerque, NM

You can try sitting on a street glide or road king classic at the dealer, I"m pretty sure they come stock with the 1" lower shocks. I have my road king lowered 1.375" in the rear and 1.5" in front using just a new dampening tube (no front fender bottoming), both are from Bitchin' Baggers and I really am pleased with both. The 1" will make a noticable difference for you in the rear.

Nov 4, 2012 | 12:57 PM

#17

tringle

Cruiser

Joined: Oct 2008

Posts: 205

Likes: 4

From: Indiana

I ride a 2009 Ultra and I had my shocks modified by bitchin baggers. My bike is lowered 1.5 inches. I've been all over the US with no problems.

Nov 4, 2012 | 01:01 PM

#18

piesik650

Road Warrior

Joined: Oct 2010

Posts: 1,597

Likes: 1

From: Frederick, CO

I added a inch in back to get me back to level with my 21" front wheel. and I would never go back to the 12" shock. not enough stroke if you ask me. and I asked my wife and her reply was "of course every inch counts"