Rubbermount_EVO Longer shocks?

[xring]

Bike is a 2004 XL1200R.

After a 1400-mile trip down to Deal's Gap through the Blue Ridge Parkway, etc, I am happy with my Sportster...I just wish it had a little more ground clearance. The left-hand foot peg and the front muffler on the right drag a little too early. I don't want to do any extensive mods; just get the best bang for my buck. I was thinking slightly longer shocks in the back and perhaps some Progressive springs up front. Any better ideas? If it will work, can anybody recommend a shock? The existing shocks are (I assume) stock; measure 13.5" eye-to-eye when unloaded.

This is my 4th trip down that way and I had the most fun, by far.
http://www.photoreflect.com/store/Or...5&po=5&pc=1228
http://www.photoreflect.com/store/Or...6&po=6&pc=1228

[Doc45]

I've got a '06 R and am running Progressive 412s (standard springs) in 13.5" length with Progressive fork springs. These made an amazing improvement in how the bike handles (I also added the SE fork brace). I know there are more expensive options out there but for my style of riding and the roads I travel I am quite happy. Do a search of my posts and you'll find plenty of pics of the bike.

Stock shocks are actually 13.25".

By the way I'm 5'9" and weigh about 195, always ride solo (so far anyway ).

Good luck, ride safe.

[2slow]

Funny, you can actually see the sparks in the second pic.

If you look at the pics carefully it looks like the bike is loading up the suspension pretty hard through that turn. You could maybe try adding some preload or stiffer springs to keep it up higher as you crank it into the corners. You could also try hanging off a bit more (sportbike style). That will buy you a bit more speed within your lean angle limits. Other than that, I don't know what to tell you. If you're really wanting to tear up the twisties you're on the wrong bike. The XR would be a MUCH better choice or better yet, a Buell. There are also numerous Japanese bikes w/ much higher handling limits than the Sporty. The Sportster handles well for a cruiser but there are 100's of bikes that will take the curves MUCH better.


The Dragon is a ton of fun. I rode down there w/ my brothers and a couple of friends last year on the GSXR (1200mi in 3days on a sportbike). I just don't think you've REALLY experianced the Dragon till you've done it on a great handling bike. WOW.....that's all I can say. The Cherohala was probably my favorite though. BEAUTIFUL scenery on a beautiful road; just amazing! One of these days, I'm going to ride the whole length of the Blue Ridge Parkway as well. That looks like a fantastic ride.

[KevinJ]

The cheapest option would be to start putting your knee down to the pavement like racers do.

[jharback]

It's pretty easy to dragt he stock pipes on a sporty. I was kind of disappointed in my progressive 412 shocks. My understanding is that the 440's are much better. I would also take a look at Hagon Shocks.

http://www.hagon-shocks.co.uk/HagShocks.htm

[turn8a]

I also have a 2004 1200r . I have ohlins rear shocks adjusted to 13.5 inches and the works dual rate fork springs with intiminators up front and can still drag parts . Rear-sets and high pipes will give a little more clearance.

[83XLX]

Originally Posted by 2slow

...If you look at the pics carefully it looks like the bike is loading up the suspension pretty hard through that turn. You could maybe try adding some preload or stiffer springs to keep it up higher as you crank it into the corners. You could also try hanging off a bit more (sportbike style)...

I agree - looks like your suspension is set up too soft for that type of riding. I have 13-1/4" FXDX shocks on mine, and the swingarm is 1/2" shorter than Sportsters made from about '88-on. No dragging any parts here, and I ride pretty agressively in the curves.

[ReddTigger]

6 year old stock shocks suck. Replace them.. On what one's will depend on your budget..

I replaced my stock 13.25 shocks with progressive 412's..

412's


stock


The yellow lines are on the ridge of the tire.

[xring]

Thanks for the replies. I had a Buell XB9, and before that several Japanese bikes. I loved the Buell but could not get comfortable on it. 500 mile days were almost impossible. The Sporty suits me better, and I'm even happy with the handling, just wish it had more clearance. I will try Progressive springs and some stiffer shocks.
I rode Cherohala and several roads off the Blue Ridge Parkway. If you ever want to ride a really tight road, try the road from the BRP down to Candler, NC. Wow!

Thanks again.

[LUCKY DAVE]

15'' shocks are more the ticket to make the change you're looking for, along with stiffer fork springs. I think the stock fork springs were sourced from a ball point pen manufacturer, they're incredibly feeble (and that's an understatement).
Also try raising the fork oil level to make the effective spring rate more progressive.
Raising the rear ride height by fitting longer shocks will quicken the steering a bit too, something Sportys benefit from as they steer slow as a barge in stock form.
After you've made these changes you're probably going to decide the wooden (stock) tires and brakes have to go.......