Bonneville America Forums Forums Technical Forums Performance Mods Lowered Rear Shocks and the Effect on Handling

Hi all,

I am considering buying the progressive 440's rear shocks or something similar and the front springs also. I have already asked in a previous thread

what others have bought but at the moment I think the 440's appear to be one of the most popular and certainly most are really happy with their purchase. I'm not definite on the progressives though and may even go the direction Kurt (Dardoonk) did with "the works" duel rate springs.

I'm also toying with the idea of fitting just a slightly lowered version but just not sure how it will effect the bike's handling. By the way, my reason for thinking lowering may be a good idea is not just for asthetics, but also I believe it will improve on what is already a very comfortable ride with my Corbin and backrest. Sort of like further feeling part of my bike it you know what I mean, not just sitting on it, and subsequently providing a "more in control" feeling.

So my question is: has anyone bought lowered shocks and how did it effect the bike's handling. Also what shocks did you buy and finally, where did you buy them. Thanks a lot to anyone who can help me.

if you lower the fornt and the back the same handeling should remin pretty much the same with the exception of ground clearence. you will scrape sooner

Frank

You will have a lower centre of gravity, which will improve handling.
You will have less clearance, which will not improve handling (if you want to get a little serious on the twisties).
Catch 22?

thanks Frank and Michael. I'm still thinking about it

no problem

Frank

I lowered mine several years back with the Progressive rear shocks and lowering springs in the front end. It dropped the bike about 2”. In my opinion the handling is a little better however with the front end lowered it’s stiffer and less travel in the front shocks. When you hit a bump or hole you will feel it a lot more. Also when you see one of our bikes in person up close that has been lowered they really look great.

It sounds like lowering isn't too much of a big deal but I just want to go down in the back say about an inch which will give me the look I'm after but not effect performance TOO much. I'm going to talk to Hagon tomorrow (see Ryan's) thread. thanks for your feedback

When I originally lowered mine I only did the rear to begin with. I rode it that way for about 6 months before doing the front end. With just the rear lowered I didn't notice any difference in the handling.