Any suggestions on rear shocks?

[11Rider]

Hi guys, Beastly came with a nice looking set of Progressive shocks but they are non adjustable and the compression damping seems to be way to high. Is there any consensus on a good set of shocks are and preferably adjustable? Thanks guys

[lee_dutcher]

What are u looking for style wise? looking more for a stock look with modern tech? or an agressive look with the same tech. i had a set identical to these on my ol gs500 and loved them....http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/13-3-...item2a0c50cb25

[11Rider]

Very nice looking shock, but probably a bit too agressive for my style. I think I need something a little more traditional looking. BTW, does anyone know offf the top of their head what the proper length shock is for the 11 Special? I seem to remember it's 11.5".

[lee_dutcher]

yes i beleave 11.5 is correct

[bikerphil]

IIRC, stock shock length is 12 5/8" eye to eye. If you want low compression damping for comfort ride get some factory shocks, the Honda Shadow ones seem to fit right on and are pretty good...

http://www.xs11.com/forum/showthread.php?t=30050&highlight=showa+shocks

[jetmechmarty]

Give these folks a call and see if they have an economical option. You won't find it on the website.

https://www.traxxion.com

[11Rider]

Thanks guys, I'll look into the factory shocks and traxxion. You guys are awesome!

[crazy steve]

Before you toss those Progressive shocks, check to see what springs are fitted. Progressive is notorious for recommending too-heavy springs to buyers, so installing a set of 'standard' springs may be all they need.

Shorter 'lowering' shocks are also noted for a hard ride, so if ride quality is important stick with the stock 12.625" eye-to-eye length...

[11Rider]

Good thinking Steve. However I must say that the springs seem to be pretty soft. Not scientific, but just by pushing down on the seat or sitting on it the spring seems soft, but hitting a sharp edge at speed gives one a good jolt. To me that would seem to indicate the compression damping being too much. BTW, mine are 11.5 eye to eye so they may be the harsher lowering shocks you speak of.

[jetmechmarty]

I believe the laden sag should be 35 mm or maybe just a bit more. Put the bike on the center stand. Measure the end of the swingarm to a point directly above on the frame. Take the bike off the stand and measure again. (you'll need help with that) The difference should be 35 mm or so. I don't think you want less.

I find the progressive spring to be very harsh when the sag is correct. The alternative is dragging hard parts in the corners. For me, the preference is a straight rate spring. Some vendors can give you the correct spring by knowing your weight and the bike you have. FWIW, my Progressive springs are 140/200 rate. I'm 235 lbs and often two-up. Stock length shocks.

[bikerphil]

JAT, I've run into some shocks before (S&W's) that were internally binding, I only found that out after taking the spring off and compressing manually, they would get stuck.

[crazy steve]

Good thinking Steve. However I must say that the springs seem to be pretty soft. Not scientific, but just by pushing down on the seat or sitting on it the spring seems soft, but hitting a sharp edge at speed gives one a good jolt. To me that would seem to indicate the compression damping being too much. BTW, mine are 11.5 eye to eye so they may be the harsher lowering shocks you speak of.

They're probably bottoming out; the 'lowering' shocks are known for this. And I doubt if these are the correct shocks for the bike, more likely these are a set of Harley shocks and may be too lightly sprung for the XS weight. Have you tried cranking the spring preload up? Progressive shocks offer 5 settings, and if they're set on full soft that may be the problem.

Progressive shocks have pretty good compression/rebound damping, but the spring rate has to be right for it to work properly...

[11Rider]

I didn't fiddle with the preload but after pricing new shocksI think I will!

[Poprock]

I'm running XJ air shocks on my bagger. 40# @ 3 damp. Just did a 1250 mile road trip, carrying tent, sleeping bag, air mat, boxes loaded. On some bad roads. Never bottomed once. At home running empty, the bike rides nicer than it ever has. Got my shocks off eBay for $35. You'll need to fill them to 3" below the inlet with 5 wt fork oil.

[Bonz]

+1 on the Honda Shadow shocks from Showa. Find them on ebay and never look back.