Longer Rear Shocks

[sztandanga]

I know that's this topic is a dead horse, but I'm gonna try resurrecting it. Typical forum advice had been Hagon shocks from Dave Quinn. Unfortunately, his store has been closed due to health reasons (I hope everything is OK), so this brings me to Progressive as the next best thing.

Anyway, the only answer I get from Progressive regarding their 412 series is that they recommend the official replacement 13" shock in either standard (90/130) or heavy duty (105/150).

I know this a fairly common thing to do to quicken up the steering. I've seen the extension that storm64 has made for a few forum members that adds an inch. So my question is how long is too long?

Progressive has 13.5" shocks available with the same spring rates as the official replacement. There are also 14.25? shocks that are available in 75/120, 90/130, 140/190, and 160/190. Can I expect these longer shocks to work the same as the shorter shocks when they have the same springs?

 

[Who Dat?]

If this is for your 850, you will want to stick with the stock length. Changing the length of the shock will increase the angle on the u-joint in the driveshaft, making it wear out quicker. If the u-joint itself doesn't wear out, it will speed up the wear on the splines in the rear wheel.

If you do need a little extra length, I would not go past the 13.5" units. Be sure to get the right springs, that will help keep them at proper length.

 

[sztandanga]

That's a good point. Not something that I considered. I went back and looked and those GS1000s in that thread were chain drive.

 

[hannibal]

For the chain drive, this forum recommended going no longer than 13.5".

 

[Guest]

OK, you are asking about longer shocks. What is your ultimate goal?

You mentioned something about quicker steering. Keeping shocks near stock length is highly recommended with a shafty. If you are looking to quicken the steering, you can go to a 90/90-19 front tire and slip the fork tubes up, until they hit the handlebars.

 

[bwringer]

For the shafties, the little anecdotal evidence I've heard is that 13.5" quickens steering a squidge and is generally regarded positively. On the negative side, it makes a difference but it's a very small difference. On some bikes, there's a little limiter tab you might have to grind off a bit so the swingarm can drop a little further. Plus, the rear tire can often contact the ground when the bike is on the centerstand, which is annoying.

Overall, I'd just go with the 13" with the proper spring rate.

Mine is wearing 13" Progressives and I've never really gotten in anyone's way too much.

Progressive's spring rate recommendations are biased toward the "comfort" side of the equation, so you'll definitely want the "heavy duty" rate unless you're really skinny.

If you're a bit larger than average, you may want to consider even higher rate springs. Look under the listings for the mid-80s Kawasaki Voyager and you'll find 12 series springs in even higher rates -- I'd recommend the 120/170 if you're in the 240-300ish range.

And of course take care of the front end -- proper straight-rate front springs, etc. Again, Progressive's front springs are made to be comfortable for average to small riders. Straight rate springs will handle far better and dive far less under braking.


I can't say I'd recommend pulling the handlebars up -- you need every ounce of cornering clearance you can get (although there's more than most people think there is), and dropping the front end eats into that.


And any time we're discussing handling, it's worth mentioning that the best money, time, and effort you'll ever spend is in upgrading the software running in that squishy wet blob in your skull. Get some good training -- the Lee Parks Total Control Riding course is fantastic and will revolutionize your riding and make you much safer.

 

[sztandanga]

Thanks for the input bwringer. With the shaftie, I definitely think it's better to just stick with the 13 inch shocks. Thank you for the heads up about Progressive being on the cushier side too. I'm currently 240 but slimming down with a goal of 220. I ride two up with my girlfriend a decent amount of the time, so that adds another 130lbs. The stiffer springs would definitely be the way to go. Of course the rep on the phone wouldn't let up.

I plan on doing the front with Sonic springs for sure along with seals and all.

 

[Guest]

Might I suggest Ikon's as the "next best thing"?

 

[sztandanga]

Might I suggest Ikon's as the "next best thing"?

Is the Ikon Basix series worth the extra $80 over the Progressive 412 series? Next best thing meant in terms of cost.

I can't spend the $500 to $600 for the 7610 series, or more for Ohlins.