longer shocks

[Hawkins]

I've read several posts about people installing 13"+ shocks, but can't find any post install reviews.

So, what's the verdict?

Any clearance issues between swingarm and exhaust?

Any other mechanical limits you are getting close to I wonder, or will handling effects stop you well before you reach other limits? For example, what about the increased angle between the middle drive and drive shaft? Does it change enough (1deg proably) to cause any problems e.g increased vibration? Does the universal joint have enuff range of motion to accomodate the extra angle, or will it now reach the end of its travel before the shock does? I'm doubtful, but there is a limit somewhere.

Also, I've seen stock length quoted as both 12.5" and 12.75". Can anyone verify the stock length?

Finally, spring rates. i've read here that stock is 120/160. progressive suggested is 105/150, with a HD option of 120/170. Seems HD is closer to stock but I've read that people find them too stiff for anything but a full load. Anyone have any thoughts on that? Seems the lower stiffness of the progressives vs stock will also cause roughly 1/4" extra compression due to rider weight.

|'m thinking I'll go with Progressive 412-4212 13", unless you guys convince me otherwise.

[John]

I can't see where that small a deflection would be of any consequence. Quite the opposite, my wife's 80 SG has been lowered by 1 inch, for a few years now, and there has been no adverse affect. I'm using Progressive 412's 12.5 inch on my bike, but they were 'NOS' for a harley. I like them. I got them cheap on ebay. I just swapped the bushings out to the metric sized bushing in our shocks. I like the ride but they will bottom when transitioning from roadway to driveway due to the rain gutter in the edge of the road.

[DiverRay]

I've had the 13.5" progressive shocks on the old daily ride for over 25K miles. NO mechanical problems, and it's easier to get on the center stand. It DOES lean WAY over on the side stand, though. I don't remember what the spring rate was, but I think it was the lighter option. I could use the heavier springs, but as I only paid about $118 for everything BRAND NEW, I'm NOT going to complain.

[Hawkins]

cool. How do you find the handling? But I guess if you just went from stock shocks to these, all you probably know is "it's a lot better", not the difference between a progressive 13 vs a 13.5.

[DiverRay]

I was looking for more clearance on corners. I have a "bad" spring on the center stand, and it flops down on bumps! Keeps the cars away at night, though
I also put the progressive front springs in, and new steering stem bearings. The handling was great on that bike! The one I ride now, it needs the work on the front end. I have S&W Air shocks, and repacked the old bearings. I may pull the front end off my old bike and put it on this one, though.