too much rear sag

[jetmechmarty]

I have new 412 series shocks on my bike. The spring rate is 120/170. With no preload the sag is 50mm. I'm looking for 25- 30 mm. I didn't measure it with the preload cranked up, but I can't ride with a passenger. It's like driving an overloaded pickup truck. Next available rate is 140/200. I'm starting to think maybe progressive spring rates aren't such a good thing.

Ideas?

[bikerphil]

Put a spacer below the spring for more preload adjustment. You'll need a spring compressor though.

[jetmechmarty]

It might take a short piece of big steel pipe! Where does one acquire a spring compressor for motorcycle shocks?

I've considered using a floor jack, two hooks, and a length of chain. I'm just a little concerned about it taking my head off!

[Schming]

I've used a ratchet strap to compress the springs on my shocks a few times.
Just have to be a little creative on the hook-up so no metal from the ratchet scratches the spring or shock. HTH

[bikerphil]

I make spacers out of PVC pipe, they hold up just fine.

Shock with a PVC spacer...


My home made spring compressor....

[yamahansolo]

His centerstand was mm's from the ground when was behind him. The dennis kirk mentioned spacees for the preload. They were 10 or 15 bucks I rhink? I will look wheni get baxk home tonight

[yamahansolo]

Marty in the catalog it has a luttle number two next to the xs11... reading number 2 in the fine print says requires 1/4" travel lumuters part number 58-0860 10.99 a pair ... and thus us for the 412

[yamahansolo]

[jwhughes3]

try yoga...

I hear its da bomb for saggy rear ends...




Here is the model number of my Heavy Duty shocks... 04-1455B/C

John

[Elevener]

I dont see why you need the spring compresser on these shocks. I do mine by hand.

[jetmechmarty]

I don't see why you need the spring compressor on these shocks. I do mine by hand.

That's something I'd like to see!