Prgressive monotubes...
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 7,439
Likes: 884
From: 'Noke, VA
Grand HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 4,624
Likes: 189
From: Newcastle, Ca.
Not all monotubes are the same. What I mean is, standard height mt's have a progressive spring in them. By adding/removing spacers you can change the spring rate, softer/firmer. But, just because you change the spring rate does not mean sag will be correctly set. The lowered mt's have a constant rate spring. A one size fits all, no matter riders weight or preferred ride, softer or firmer. And regardless of how many clips are added/removed, the spring rate stays the same, but sag will change. So, when asking about mt reviews, keep in my mind which mt's, riders weight and if they prefer a firmer or softer ride.
As mentioned, with racetech and ricors, you can chose the spring rate and go with a constant rate spring which is much better. Also, the cartridges are adjustable as well as using different weight oils to change the suspension.
As mentioned, with racetech and ricors, you can chose the spring rate and go with a constant rate spring which is much better. Also, the cartridges are adjustable as well as using different weight oils to change the suspension.
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 2,878
Likes: 164
From: Northern California
I had a set of the standard height monotubes installed on a 07 glide. My number one issue was the front end dropped approx. 1/2 inch, to me it looked wrong. Overall if I had it to do again, I would have found another option.
I'm assuming you used only one clip?
Outstanding HDF Member
Joined: Sep 2006
Posts: 2,878
Likes: 164
From: Northern California
I don't know. Had them installed by my HD dealership. It might have been their fault, not the product. I do not know. I simply was unhappy with the result.
Road Captain
Joined: May 2012
Posts: 528
Likes: 0
From: Bel Air, MD
Have a set on my RK now for a year and very happy with them for the ride and value. I installed the stock height using 1 clip and was happy, then I installed the 444's on the rear and the complete package make a huge difference.
In my research I felt that there are better options with oils, springs, and valves but they come at more cost. Not only $ but time is figuring them out in getting the correct set-up between springs, oil weight and valve configuration. I know myself that if I had options available my first choice would be second and third guessed and I do not want to keep tearing into the front and dial it in. The cookie cutter option worked for me. It may not work for everyone.
In my research I felt that there are better options with oils, springs, and valves but they come at more cost. Not only $ but time is figuring them out in getting the correct set-up between springs, oil weight and valve configuration. I know myself that if I had options available my first choice would be second and third guessed and I do not want to keep tearing into the front and dial it in. The cookie cutter option worked for me. It may not work for everyone.
Ultimate HDF Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 7,439
Likes: 884
From: 'Noke, VA
That's another issue. With both clips installed (per the instructions) the front end drops 1/2". Had I removed a clip to reduce preload, it would have dropped the front end further.
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