XJ11 needs new shocks, badly -- whaddaya recommend?

[LCS249]

I think I'm done with the stock air deals. I feel like I don't have shocks at all.

I put racetech shocks in my front forks on my prior Triumph Trophy because it had a tendency to dive. Not so with my XJ11.

So, Progressive shocks? V-Max shocks?

I want a smooth ride and good handling in corners ... then again, who doesn't...

thanks.

Leon

[TopCatGr58]

Hey Leon,

Just a little down this main page of threads is a recent one about what shocks to run! The Progressives are fine but quite $$, and it depends on your weight, whether you ride 2 up often, any extra weight on the rear like saddlebags and trunks, etc.. The Generic ones on MikesXS and JCW/Partsnmore are fair in their spring strength, but not as robust for heavier 2 up situations. Their SHOCK/Dampening affect is quite good, so for $80 or so, they are decent replacements, again depending on how you'll use your machine and what's on it! I run them on mine, have bags/trunk, but don't ride 2up much, and I'm only 225 lbs. YMMV.
T.C.

[LCS249]

Thanks T.C.,

I'll look for that thread. I always start with a "search," but found nothing for XJ11 shocks.

I'm 220 or so, myself, and only ever ride alone. But clearly the shocks are done on this bike, even though it had low mileage when I bought it. I'm guessing, as per prior responses to my questions, that a P.O. blew out the seals.

I'd rather buy something maintenance-free anyway.

best,

Leon

[trbig]

Fix the seals on your stock shocks. Riding down the road put just a small amount of air in them. Riding it hard in the twisties?? Put more air in for a stiffer ride. Let it out when you're done. You won't get that kind of adjustability from your "Maintanance free" shocks. Plus a set of seals doesn't cost much.

Just another opinion to throw at you...


Tod

[LCS249]

Fix the seals on your stock shocks. Riding down the road put just a small amount of air in them. Riding it hard in the twisties?? Put more air in for a stiffer ride. Let it out when you're done. You won't get that kind of adjustability from your "Maintanance free" shocks. Plus a set of seals doesn't cost much.

Just another opinion to throw at you...
Tod

Hi Tod,

How hard is that to do? I read up on it in the tech tips and it sounds like a major job. I'm not brilliant as a mechanic - dependent on others or shops.

thanks,

Leon

[trbig]

I've personally never done it, but will need to on my newest XJ I just bought. I don't think it takes a brain surgeon to do though. Dive in and have a try. You can always jump on here for help if you have a problem.

Worst case scenario.. you have to buy the new shocks you were planning on buying anyway?? lol.

Tod

[LCS249]

I've personally never done it, but will need to on my newest XJ I just bought. I don't think it takes a brain surgeon to do though. Dive in and have a try. You can always jump on here for help if you have a problem.

Worst case scenario.. you have to buy the new shocks you were planning on buying anyway?? lol.

Tod

True enough. Does someone on this site sell seals? It seems like Progressive shocks are upwards of $200.

By the way, you've got the best signature lines.

Leon