Lowering Your Bike

[wolfman1265]

well i have an idea on how i want my bike to look. i want to get there the quickest and least expensive way.. i want it be dropped as far as it can get in the back with a mortons 7*rake kit.. i cant get it all at once so i was thinking droppin it this summer but i dont know what to do with the front since the back would be lowered and the front wouldnt.. would i want to lower the front until i got the rake kit?? how low can i "safely" go with struts? basically.. what should i get and what order should i get it in... thanx a lot

[AirportFF]

To lower the front

Jack the bike to take the weight off of the front suspension.
Remove the fork caps on the triple tree. (Careful there's a BIG spring in there)
Pull out the metal spacer in the fork.
Get yourself some 1" PVC pipe and cut it 1 1/2" shorter than the metal spacers.
Clean off all the shavings.
Insert the PVC in place of the metal spacers.
Reinstall the fork caps (Carefull it's easy to cross thread them)
That's it. You're done with the front.

If you want lower cut the PVC shorter, higher remove less than the 1 1/2"

[T_Sebastian]

I am not an expert, but I know a little about struts.
I would recommend that you dont go lower than 9.5" however there are folks here that have gone with 9" and one crazy copper who is running 9" struts WITH a lowering kit.
They have had good luck with it, but others havent been so lucky. The 9" struts are very low, to the point where if youre not thinkiing about it, and take a turn to fast, you'll scrape frame and dump the bike (just ask Fegs).
I am running 10" struts on mine. I went with that size because of the billski taillight mod. Any lower and it wouldnt fit under the fender. I have about .25" clearance. I also didnt lower the front end at all, and it looks good and level to me.

As far as the raked trees go, I looked at them, but I dont think I am gonna do it. Ive read some stuff that shows how it can effect the trailing, and the dangers of the trailing being incorrect.

Hope this helps,....just my .02

[wolfman1265]

if i get 9.5 will i need my forks lower?? or will it look dumb if i dont?

[AirportFF]

Dumb is in the eyes of the beholder. My personal preference is to lower it evenly. But other people prefer having the front a little higher. It's your call :happy:

[wolfman1265]

http://photobucket.com/albums/v148/Higgins1947/?action=view&current=BikeOnGrass.jpg

that is how i want my bike to sit:) any thoughts on how he did it?

[AirportFF]

Hard to tell other than the struts. I think I've seen that on the spirit world in someones sigpic.

[wolfman1265]

hmm... well lets see.. if i go with 9.5 struts.. how low should i drop the forks to make it even??

[T_Sebastian]

just a guess here,....
mines pretty level with 10" struts so I think 1/2" lower in the front should work.

when I say its level, Im judging that by the bottom of the frame.

[T_Sebastian]

oh yeah, thats Buck's bike from TSW. I am pretty sure he does have the raked trees.

[Tangledj]

oh yeah, thats Buck's bike from TSW. I am pretty sure he does have the raked trees.
Yeah,he's got'em

[Nok]

and one crazy copper who is running 9" struts WITH a lowering kit.

http://www.ar15.com/images/smilies/anim_nana.gif

[fegs]

That's one crazy sum bitch..... :eek2:

fegs...

[T_Sebastian]

http://www.ar15.com/images/smilies/anim_nana.gif

see.....

[T-Rob 666]

I am not an expert, but I know a little about struts.
I would recommend that you dont go lower than 9.5" however there are folks here that have gone with 9" and one crazy copper who is running 9" struts WITH a lowering kit.
They have had good luck with it, but others havent been so lucky. The 9" struts are very low, to the point where if youre not thinkiing about it, and take a turn to fast, you'll scrape frame and dump the bike (just ask Fegs).
I am running 10" struts on mine. I went with that size because of the billski taillight mod. Any lower and it wouldnt fit under the fender. I have about .25" clearance. I also didnt lower the front end at all, and it looks good and level to me.

As far as the raked trees go, I looked at them, but I dont think I am gonna do it. Ive read some stuff that shows how it can effect the trailing, and the dangers of the trailing being incorrect.

Hope this helps,....just my .02

Let me tell ya, that installing a 6* or 7* rake on our bike is not gonna fuck up the trail enough to hurt anything on our bike. I've had mine on for almost 6 months now....have had it up to 90 -100 mph and that bike is more steady now then it was with a stock tree, man. Besides it looking fucking kick ass, it's one of the best suspension mods I've done.

If one plans on doing more than a 7* rake, then you might want to think about cutting the neck to make sure the trail is still good. My .02 cents.

T

[emiliesman]

My name is emiliesman(Mitch) and I just purchased a 2001 SS750. So much fun! I added a custom rear brake light and turn signals and now would like to drop the back end. I will be doing the VTX coversion with the 200 tire so this is a factor too. Is cutting the springs safe? Any help would be great! Thanks!

[SmokeShowin]

My name is emiliesman(Mitch) and I just purchased a 2001 SS750. So much fun! I added a custom rear brake light and turn signals and now would like to drop the back end. I will be doing the VTX coversion with the 200 tire so this is a factor too. Is cutting the springs safe? Any help would be great! Thanks!


First things first:

http://scorpius.150m.com/master/smilie/flamethrower.gifFUCK OFF NOOB!!!

Welcome to the nuthouse!:biggrinje
One thing you'll learn is no pics = no custom rear brake light and turn signals.
As for cutting the springs, check with Tangledj.
Welcome again and good luck.

[AirportFF]

My name is emiliesman(Mitch) and I just purchased a 2001 SS750. So much fun! I added a custom rear brake light and turn signals and now would like to drop the back end. I will be doing the VTX coversion with the 200 tire so this is a factor too. Is cutting the springs safe? Any help would be great! Thanks!

Read through here and see if any of the info answers your questions on lowering with the VTX rim. If not try searching. I know it's on here somewhere.


http://www.shadowriders.net/forums/showthread.php?t=20

[emiliesman]

I'll post pics soon. My dads at the Indy 500 and has my digital camera, so by teh end of next week. WTF is NOOB? This site rocks! I'll find all the info I need I am sure! Any suggestions on lwering let me know if one thing works better than the other.

[AirportFF]

NOOB=New person=you :happy:

[RustyJake]

NOOB=New person=you :happy:
and tricycle=NEWBIE (less then 10 posts)
Welcome to the site

[Rheopipo]

if i get 9.5 will i need my forks lower?? or will it look dumb if i dont?

I got that setup.. 9.5 struts and thats it you can check a few pics of mine in the garage. I hope I dont look dumb! (for what I have heard I dont think so :no:)

[emiliesman]

Where are your pics at? Do the struts make it a much rougher ride? I love the way struts make the bike look, but I really don't want to sacrifice too much ride comfort. At least with the shocks I will have a little cushion for bumps. Anybody prefer one method over the other? I guess I can live with being a newbie for awhile!

[Rheopipo]

Where are your pics at? Do the struts make it a much rougher ride? I love the way struts make the bike look, but I really don't want to sacrifice too much ride comfort. At least with the shocks I will have a little cushion for bumps. Anybody prefer one method over the other? I guess I can live with being a newbie for awhile!
Here are my pics... http://www.shadowriders.net/forums/vbgarage.php?do=view&id=27

I run a little bit less preassure on the back tire, the ride is a little bit rougher but I didn't find it all that different...but my wife is another story... if you are going to be with a passanger most of the time I recommend the shocks. With the struts I feel what the motorcycles does better... I lost traction once and I felt it right away and was able the make the correction without dumping the bike. If you are going the shock route I wil advice to get progressive instead of cutting them. The progressive are shorter but still stiff enough to go with the bumps on the road. Cutting them gives you the look but the will give more travel because the will loose stiffnes and the suspension will bottom out more. If you are going solo there is nothing to fear with struts. But I am still young and can take some abuse :-)

[emiliesman]

Alright I've done some research but am still not sure what I want to do. I have checked out that company Scootworks with their rear lowering kit. I have a cat eye brake light and they say to use the 1.5" kit but I just don't think that will give me the look I want. The 2.5" kit is the one I want but does anyone have this setup and an undertail brake light or do I need to get a different brake light? Also anyone have a subframe I can chop up for a good price, I really want to save mine just in case and need to modify the subframe for the 200 tire setup. Thanks!!!!

[cajunrider]

i have 9 inch struts' and i think i'm going to order the 412 with the scootworks lowering kit. i live in new orleans and the streets are to bad for a rigid :assbeat:

[Rheopipo]

Dont be a pussy jajaja! :big gun:

[Mr.Sinister]

Rheo have you seen the bolt on hardtail kit they are selling at TSW ? I may buy one today . I need to get a few questions answered first .

[Rheopipo]

Nope! how much are they selling it for? I like the strut route becaues you can change it back fast! if you need it.

[Mr.Sinister]

http://forums.delphiforums.com/TheSpiritWorld/messages/?start=Start+Reading+%3E%3E Prices :happy: Click on Bucks sig pic for photo's .

[Rheopipo]

Man I am LOST at that forum.... I tried your link but it takes me to a start page... I am looking four Bucks but cant find him...

[Rheopipo]

Raw steel hardtail kit: $350.00
Raw steel hardtail kit w/ground slugs: $450.00
Powder coat either of above(gloss black): $85.00
Shorty barke anchor: $50.00
Shipping: $65.00

If you got the $$$$ look great.

[Mr.Sinister]

I don't need the show grind .With the brake stay and powdercoat shipped about 550 shipped . I can't think of any other mod you can do that will change the profile of your bike for the better for that kind of money .

[Rheopipo]

But for that $$ the tank stretch is a good option.... that is the mod that I like the most but I cant do it here in PR :-( and I am broke right now! dam it!

[Mr.Sinister]

With my seat I prefer no stretch .The stretch does alot . The hardtail mod WOW!!!!! I am waiting for an email . Next the Mortons and then DP .

[Rheopipo]

Post some pics here! I just saw one... so everybody else dies of envy hahaha.

[Rheopipo]

and finally something good to post!!!

[Mr.Sinister]

http://photobucket.com/albums/v148/Higgins1947/?action=view&current=FinishedJune2005Sig.jpg I HOPE THIS WORKS !

[Rheopipo]

Nice!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Wild Coyote]

Where is the lowering kit on TSW. I got to the start page, where do I go to find it? I want to lower my bike, but I have the Billski on the back so Can't go too low. I love the look, but don't have a ton of cash to spend. The Chrome Burbs set me back with a new jet kit. Anything I can do with stock shocks to lower it without cutting them?

[Wild Coyote]

Anyone have a picture of the 1.5 Lowering kit by scootworks? They didn't have a good pic on their website. Is this the best I can do with the Billski light mod?

[Rheopipo]

buy new springs.

[Wild Coyote]

and tricycle=NEWBIE (less then 10 posts)
Welcome to the site

RJ, you have 11 1/2 Progressives on your bike. Could I put those on mine with the Billski Tail light mod and stock tire? Would it have enough room?

[RustyJake]

RJ, you have 11 1/2 Progressives on your bike. Could I put those on mine with the Billski Tail light mod and stock tire? Would it have enough room?
I had a Billski on mine till this year. I had 3/4" travel limiters, but the light would hit before you bottom out so the travel limiters would be overkill.
If you use the 11-1/2" you'll have to crank the preload to maximum and then you'll be okay even for 2 up. With one up, you don't have to be max'd out on the preload and it won't rub the light(unless you hit a pothole or something like that). So yeah, they will work, and depending on how and where you ride you can adjust the shocks to suit.

[Wild Coyote]

If I don't go with the progressive 11 1/2 shocks, what size strut can I use without rubbing the light? 9.5?? 11.5?? How low can I go before I hit that light? I want to go as low as possible wihout having to put on a side mount.

[Wild Coyote]

anyone know of a link where someone is making struts in different sizes?

[Rheopipo]

www.wildcardcustomes.com (http://www.wildcardcustomes.com) they are called ground pounders there!

[Wild Coyote]

how low can I go before rubbing the billski light right off?

[Rheopipo]

Well I dont have the billski mod but my guess is 9.5 is too low i got that and I guess is too low to put a light in there.... I cant search for the answer right now but I know is out there... you are no the first one to ask that (but dont worry, is ok) anyway you should call wilcard custom and ask they will know what you are talking about!

Happy modding!!!! i am stuck right know no $$$ for the bling. but next month maybe.

[Rheopipo]

Or if you can put the billski more to the outside of the fender maybe you could.

[Wild Coyote]

I shot jaxon an email about it. How much do those struts run? Any idea?

[Rheopipo]

No Idea Tseb made mine... and he is lost in space!

[olpanrider]

hey Brian - do you have access to a m/c jack or lift? Figure out some way to lift it, support the rear wheel/ swingingarm assembly with a floor jack, take the shocks loose, move the wheel up until ya got the clearance ya want, then measure between the shock frame studs (center to center). That ought to give ya the length ya need..........

[Wild Coyote]

Mike, we have the same bike and similar tail lights. What do your struts measure center to center right now? That'll give me a good idea of what I'm looking for. Thanks bro!!

[olpanrider]

seny ya a personal email.............

[Wild Coyote]

I am not an expert, but I know a little about struts.
I would recommend that you dont go lower than 9.5" however there are folks here that have gone with 9" and one crazy copper who is running 9" struts WITH a lowering kit.
They have had good luck with it, but others havent been so lucky. The 9" struts are very low, to the point where if youre not thinkiing about it, and take a turn to fast, you'll scrape frame and dump the bike (just ask Fegs).
I am running 10" struts on mine. I went with that size because of the billski taillight mod. Any lower and it wouldnt fit under the fender. I have about .25" clearance. I also didnt lower the front end at all, and it looks good and level to me.

As far as the raked trees go, I looked at them, but I dont think I am gonna do it. Ive read some stuff that shows how it can effect the trailing, and the dangers of the trailing being incorrect.

Hope this helps,....just my .02

I'll take your word for it since it's been done. No reason to re-invent the wheel when someone has already done it. 10 inches it is!

[Wild Coyote]

seny ya a personal email.............

Thanks for the info. Like I said, if you are in the area, lots of Hooters Restaurants around here. Cheap beer, big tits, and short shorts.

[Wild Coyote]

I talked to Jaxon at www.wildcardcustoms.com (http://www.wildcardcustoms.com) and he was saying that his standard strut is actually less than 10 inches, a bit more than 9, and many have ordered it and used with the Billski mod with no problems. $165 for smooth shipped, etc.

[Cactus Jack]

I put the "Billski 4" fork extensions and the Scootworks 2 1/2" lowering kit on my 2002 Shadow Spirit 750. I think the rake is cool and it rides just fine. Here's a pic.

[Wild Coyote]

If I do lower the back end 2 inches with 1.5 lowering kit and 11.5 progressives, what do I need to do with the front end to even it out?? I leave this question to the mod masters here on the site. Please advise, this is my winter project. Also, do I need a lift to do this?

[ames77us]

http://photobucket.com/albums/v148/Higgins1947/?action=view&current=BikeOnGrass.jpg

that is how i want my bike to sit:) any thoughts on how he did it?

Damn bro! Nice ride! Gives me a bit of a chubby just looking at it.

[RustyJake]

That pic of Buck's bike is a tad old. Have a look at his photo album http://photobucket.com/albums/v148/Higgins1947/ and see what he's done to it. I do like the new rigid swing arm.
I'm more inclined to wait for a soft tail version though. But he's done quite a bit of work to it and it shows very well.

[freshmaker]

Help me out here. I don't see any reason to buy a lowering kit then use struts. Am I missing something?

[Wild Coyote]

No you are not missing anything. Buy the correct size struts and you're good.

[freshmaker]

Key word being "correct". I'm thinking of going with the 10.5" myself.

[twin750]

There is another way if you are not mechanically inclinded. Do like we did when we flattracked, slide the forks up in the triple trees. Put you bike on a jack and take the pressure off the front end and loosen the triple tree clamps and slide the forks up toward the bars (there's plenty of room), using a tape measure and slightly tighten the triple trees and put bike back on ground to see the if it looks like what you want. DO NOT RIDE THE BIKE TILL YOU ARE SURE OF WHAT YOU LIKE AND PROPERLY TIGHTEN THE TRIPLE TREE CLAMPS. It doesn't look bad either, most people never noticed what you did.

[olpanrider]

Key word being "correct". I'm thinking of going with the 10.5" myself.

hey Rich, since you're running that sidemount, ya can go lower than 10.5 if ya want. I got some 9.5's at the house if ya want to try 'em for a while to see if ya like that length. LMK. You got my #. BTW, we're meeting a Bill Smith's Cafe for breakfast before the Toy Run if you're still going. LMK.
Mike

[freshmaker]

hey Rich, since you're running that sidemount, ya can go lower than 10.5 if ya want. I got some 9.5's at the house if ya want to try 'em for a while to see if ya like that length. LMK. You got my #. BTW, we're meeting a Bill Smith's Cafe for breakfast before the Toy Run if you're still going. LMK.
Mike
I may take you up on that. I'd like to see what I'm getting into anyway. As for the Toy run. I'm hosting a Chrismas party (that's right, not a Holiday party) for all my employee's at the house Saturday. Not sure that I'll be in any shape for a ride. I'll give you a call after Christmas about the struts. Thanks man! :thumbsup:

[BadKarma]

I made these myself. I went 9" end to end and it gave me about 1 1/2 inch of clearence with a 200 size tire.

[FrankZ]

BadKarma is that Pic of a Strut cause it looks like a Shock from here

[AirportFF]

:freak:


That looks like a Magna taillight too

[FrankZ]

Looks like a Stock turned over

[BadKarma]

Sorry about that, I got into a hurry and posted an old pic. Here the new pic...with the new strut! Ive since done many other mods to the bike and am in the process of paitning it. I should have it shot next week.

[FrankZ]

That's better:thumbsup: So let me see if I've paid attention here, Bilski style Mod 10" Strut plenty of room less then 10" side mount, no need for lowering Kit, relatively inexpensive, easy to change back to stock shock when needed, Damn this is great, add a Bilski 2" extension for a slightly Chopped look what could be easier and cheaper than That :thumbsup:

[FrankZ]

Well Now for Mod's Change #3969, I keep this up I'll be still tryin to decide while everyone else is Ridin

[FrankZ]

Hate to bring this up again but do you have to use a Lowering Kit with shorter Shocks or can you change just the Shocks

[Partsguy198]

To lower the front

Jack the bike to take the weight off of the front suspension.
Remove the fork caps on the triple tree. (Careful there's a BIG spring in there)
Pull out the metal spacer in the fork.
Get yourself some 1" PVC pipe and cut it 1 1/2" shorter than the metal spacers.
Clean off all the shavings.
Insert the PVC in place of the metal spacers.
Reinstall the fork caps (Carefull it's easy to cross thread them)
That's it. You're done with the front.

If you want lower cut the PVC shorter, higher remove less than the 1 1/2"

Dammit, is there something more to it than just unscrewing the fork caps? I tried to get the caps off last night and nothin'.

[AirportFF]

Dammit, is there something more to it than just unscrewing the fork caps? I tried to get the caps off last night and nothin'.

You have the bike off of the ground? There was a thread in the bike discussion forum about this same subject. I'll see if I can find it and post the link here.

[AirportFF]

I found the thread but it didn't give any help other than the fork caps are 24mm.

There seems to be a current problem with getting them off on some bikes. They should just unscrew with a little resistance.

Keep us posted.

[logan176]

I know I've seen it somewhere but I can't find the thread with the search button. If I put the Scootworks 2.5 lowering kit on my ss750 (and of course remove the billski taillight mod) will I bottom out when riding 2-up? If so, is it the frame that hits pavement or the rear fender that hits the tire? I weigh 170 and my fiance weighs 120...so that's 290 lbs combined. I also have the stock pipes installed.

Nevermind...I'm an ass. I accidentally posted this in another thread. :oops:

[logan176]

Guys have discussed lowering their bikes by the Scootworks kit or cutting the stock springs. Has anyone tried a 2.5 lowering kit and cutting a rung off the stock shocks to get it even lower?

[anesthesia]

I found the thread but it didn't give any help other than the fork caps are 24mm.

There seems to be a current problem with getting them off on some bikes. They should just unscrew with a little resistance.

Keep us posted.

I had a lot of trouble getting my fork caps off. finally took it to a shop and they used an impact wrench.

[blackhawk]

saw some mention on tsw about the lowering kits changing the bike geometry. i only saw one guy mention it and haven't seen anything here about it. is this something that actually affects rideability or something that, unless your name is bostrom, mladin, or spies, you probably won't notice anyway?

[sikustoms]

hey I was wondering if anyone had a set of plans for a rear lowering kit for an 05 shadow 750 spirit. i consider myself to be a damn good welder and i have all the right tools to make it I'm just not sure on the proper measurements. i've also been a fan of the saying "built not bought". If anyone could help me out i would appreciate it. Also i'm from southern Indiana if anyone else is from this area let me know, i dont know alot of people to go riding with around here, my dad and my girlfriend are the only people i really know to ride with. my girlfriend has an 02 shadow spirit and my dad has a harley (NOW YOU KNOW WHY I DONT LIKE TO RIDE WITH MY DAD) lol

[sikustoms]

disregard my last question. i just bouoght a scootworks 2.5 lowering kit..... anywayz its not low enough. what can i do??? i want that "fender sitting on the tire" look. i would greatly appreciate the help. Thanks

[sikustoms]

what is the best way to get the springs off of the back shocks i think i am going to cut a round of the coil. any suggestions?

[RustyJake]

what is the best way to get the springs off of the back shocks i think i am going to cut a round of the coil. any suggestions?

Make yourself a tool for compressing shocks. Have a look HERE (http://www.shadowriders.net/forums/showthread.php?t=173&highlight=shock+tool) at this post and you can see one that Ghostrider made out of steel and another one made out of wood.

[Titanium2006]

Anybody tried these and have photo? Are they worth it? Better off just using lowering kit? Thanks!

[pretra]

Lots of guys on TSW use them. Pretty much anything Billski makes is great quality and he is a great guy to deal with.

[Trg]

tried the scoot works lowering kit and I don't really like the ride. Its alot harder and it seems that the back end isn't holding (tire spin on quick accel). just my two cents. thinking of cutting the spring...can someone give me some pointers?

[BB494]

I Am Asuming That The Ride With Rigid Struts Is Not That Good. I Have Always Thought They Were Just For The Look. Could Anyone Tell Me How The Ride Is With Rigids? Does It Beat The Shit Out Of You On A Rough Highway?

[MISpiritRider]

$54 from Tractor Supply www.tractorsupplyco.com (http://www.tractorsupplyco.com), two top links for a 3 pt. hitch, and a couple 2" coated spacers I found on the shelf just under the links... In stock form the links drop the rear pretty far, and the 2" spacers replaced the 4" spacers in the front... Tomorrow I'm going to cut the links a bit and see how low I can get it, then post a few pics... I ride 35 miles each way to work, and I'm not feeling all that bad from riding there this afternoon... Not as bad as I figured! Once I build a seat I think this is the ticket... And they look pretty cool too! Pics to come...

Kevin

[nicko99]

I ride w/ rigid struts everyday. About 20 mies round trip to work and back. It's not as bad as it may sound, but be sure... if you hit a pot hole or something like that, you'll feel it.:stunned:

[MISpiritRider]

Oh yeah, I'm not saying it's easy! I have a few good train tracks I cross, and plenty of michigan patched roads to wonder down! Still not too bad, should be better once I make a seat (I sit on the frame now...)

[RAZOR]

If You Drive The Same Roads Every Day You Will Know Where To
Avoid And Where To Lift Your Ass Up Off Seat So To Not Jar Your Back...

[BB494]

Oh yeah, I'm not saying it's easy! I have a few good train tracks I cross, and plenty of michigan patched roads to wonder down! Still not too bad, should be better once I make a seat (I sit on the frame now...)

I know how fucked up those Michigan roads are. The roads in North Dakota are just as bad. Bumps, heaves, and potholes everywhere.

[MISpiritRider]

:madani: Here in michigan, there are only two seasons of the year... Winter and Road Construction :madani:

[Titanium2006]

I see a couple of guys asking about cutting the spring on the stock shocks...Any of you actually done this? How did it turn out? Issues? Good/bad? Thinkin of doing some choppin myself but wanted a heads up before I slice them up....

[rifleman223]

I am planning to install the 200 mod and I have the cateye tail-light on the bike. Does anyone know if the 11.5" progressives will lower it enought to look good and still maintain some ride quality?

I read in the post as well that I might have to adjust the preload to maximum. Is that correct?

[Free Spirit]

I am planning to install the 200 mod and I have the cateye tail-light on the bike. Does anyone know if the 11.5" progressives will lower it enought to look good and still maintain some ride quality?

I read in the post as well that I might have to adjust the preload to maximum. Is that correct?

You should be ok with the 11.5 Progressives. There are several folks around here with that setup. Dependingon your weight, you may or may not need to set the preload to a stiffer ride. Plus since you have hte catseye under the fender (i.e. Billski mod or equivalent).. if you go too low, you'll have to relocate the light to a side mount or it'll rub.

[rifleman223]

That is great. I am only about 155 so I will mess with the preload when I get it all installed.

[Titanium2006]

JUST AN FYI - For those of you considering cutting a couple of rings out of your shocks in order lower your scoot....DONT..Luckily I bought them on ebay for $10 and thought the idea of chopping them up sounded fun...turns out the mod sucks.....in order for it to get low enough to look good you''ll bottom out cause you loose too much "Spring". Glad I didnt chop my stockers....but think I'll go with the lowering kit or struts...just trying to save some of ya some time and $$$...dont cut em...but the kit...

[Drepanon]

I am planning to install the 200 mod and I have the cateye tail-light on the bike. Does anyone know if the 11.5" progressives will lower it enought to look good and still maintain some ride quality?

I read in the post as well that I might have to adjust the preload to maximum. Is that correct?

I just put the progressive 11.5 on mine with the Cateye Tailight. i will be doing the 200 tire but i can see it will have plenty of room. there are two models for the Progressive... i bought the HD version... being i weigh 229lbs. i have them set to the softest setting currently... and man it is a smooth ride!

~Drep

HD = Heavy Duty :|

[ames77us]

Sorry about that, I got into a hurry and posted an old pic. Here the new pic...with the new strut! Ive since done many other mods to the bike and am in the process of paitning it. I should have it shot next week.

what kind of material did you use, where did you get it and how did you do that I like those struts?!:drink:

[Scott]

To lower the front

Jack the bike to take the weight off of the front suspension.
Remove the fork caps on the triple tree. (Careful there's a BIG spring in there)
Pull out the metal spacer in the fork.
Get yourself some 1" PVC pipe and cut it 1 1/2" shorter than the metal spacers.
Clean off all the shavings.
Insert the PVC in place of the metal spacers.
Reinstall the fork caps (Carefull it's easy to cross thread them)
That's it. You're done with the front.

If you want lower cut the PVC shorter, higher remove less than the 1 1/2"





I know this is an old post but.....would this be the same quality as Scootworks front end lowering kit? It almost looks like they are PVC.

[sdp]

I know this is an old post but.....would this be the same quality as Scootworks front end lowering kit? It almost looks like they are PVC.
the scootworks front kit is a waste of money. They ARE PVC.... $5 dollars in material from home depot.

[Scott]

the scootworks front kit is a waste of money. They ARE PVC.... $5 dollars in material from home depot.


Thanks for the reply. I saw someone selling the kit on Ebay and it looked plastic, thats why I asked. Looks like I am heading to HD today. Thanks again!

[rifleman223]

I will do the PVC this weekend. Looks like a great alternative.

[crabby3307]

Anybody got pics of the scootworks lowring kit off the bike or on I am going to fab up something similar for my ride .

[fegs]

U can see them on scoot site. For the cost of the kit, I dont feel its worth the trouble of fabricating....

[crabby3307]

I'm sure but the challenge is what makes it worthwhile!

[fegs]

then fab away....

[Corpsegrinder]

If you by pvc from HD make sure its the schedule 40 stuff and not that piss thin pvc they use for conensation lines for HVAC air handlers. Look on the pipe, it'll say SCHED 40.

[Chop]

When you lower your bike don't have to mod your kick stand? if so how, cut it and weld it?

[nicko99]

When you lower your bike don't have to mod your kick stand? if so how, cut it and weld it?

I just removed the 2 bolts holding the kickstand and added a washer to each one below the kickstand. This gave it enough to make the bike lean a little more when on the stand.

[chewychewytoo]

When I lowered mine, I only lowered the rear, and I used fork extensions which compensated for it and it sits fine on the kick stand now...

[Kycop34]

I am looking at lowering the rear and have seem some great options in here. I will be riding 2 up about half the time so i am assuming i need to stick with shocks and just get a shorter set. I also plan to go with the cateye rear liht setup and a 170/80 rear tire.

Anybody got any comments, suggestions or links to where i can get a good set of shocks for reasonable $?

[fegs]

Depending on how low U want it, there are several options. Lowering kit with your stock shocks, hardtail (struts, etc) Progressives.... dont know if U would bottom out with progrssives thou. Do a search

[fordfasterr]

Anybody have pics of the mods to lower the 1100 shadow / 750 shadow with shaft drive ?

[Donco75]

I just got my shadow and i want to lower it also, but i have some questions i'm hoping you guys could help me out with. I want to rake out the front and from what i've seen from some of the bikes on here 7 degrees looks to be about what i'm after. i want to buy a 7 degree tripple tree from kc international (i'll try to post the link) and i suppose i need a 2 or 3 inch fork extension also, but do i need anything else to make this work? after i get the rake correct then i can lower the whole bike evenly. do i need new forks or anything? if it helps any i'm also pulling off the stock wheel and going with a 21" 60 or 80 spoke wheel in the front and hopefully an 18 x 5.5 in the back if i can figure it out. Thanks for all the info i've picked up on here already.

yeah, yeah, i know. fuck me noob....:knife:

[Donco75]

http://kcint.zoovy.com/product/60-29-88-06/CHROME_BILLET_TRIPLE_TREE_7_DEGREE_RAKE_FOR_HARLEY.html

[YO MUDA]

Uhh thats for a Harley. Do you have a Harley?

[Donco75]

no... but the 21" wheels for the front are off a harley wide glide, right? That's why i'm asking. not sure about parts interchangeability. would hate to order this part and try to install it on my honda and realize 'hey, this is for a harley....'
so, safe to admit i need the tripple trees specifically for the honda then? if so, do i need anything else to get the 7 degrees rake, or am i good with just trees and fork extensions?:jamming:

[jayhawk785]

Just to note the sticky, i got the 412 progressive 11" to work with a shaft drive... Took some pounding, and it maybe could be done without extra hardware if you are a careful pounder--but im not so i had to make a trip to home depot. :)

http://notbusy.com/a/Preview-20080522-122042.jpg < this side went in unmodified...

http://notbusy.com/a/Preview-20080522-122250.jpg < this side took a bit more work, and i bent the bracket too much and stripped the welded bolt/bracketed to the other side. I went to home depot and got a 40mm bolt, nut, washer, and lock washer and sewed it up nice.

So, moral of the story is, they'll work with some work...

http://notbusy.com/a/Preview-20080522-122534.jpg

sorry for the crappy pics they're from an iphone, blame apple.

[westdime]

those are crapy pics???? I dont think so..........now get us some of the hole bike asap!

[06shadow750]

Though about builing my own struts. the 9.5" is that from center hole to center hole??


J.

[westdime]

Though about builing my own struts. the 9.5" is that from center hole to center hole??


J.
Yes.East to do.

[06shadow750]

I work at a place that builds dump truck bodies so steel for the struts wont be a problem. After i build me a set, i'll see how they work and may build more to sell. Whats the hole size i need to drill for??


J.

[jayhawk785]

So I got the scootworks for the c2 and started installing them, i didnt have a 27mm socket so i had to go get one and will complete tonight. The bracket on the shaft size is fairly huge lol--it connects to the spring mount point, and then down to the axle bolt, creates a right angle... doesn't look that great but i think i can cover it up a bit with a side mount license plate ;)

I'll post the pic on that side when its done, the arrow shows the bolt it attaches to:

http://notbusy.com/a/axle.JPG

[Timmy67.5]

Your getting crafty Steve. Good thinkin on covering it up with the side mount bro... Fucking shaft drives!

We should meet up for a ride one day dude. I could come to Orlando for a bit.

[jayhawk785]

My riding is getting better, but i think i've spent more time taking it apart than I have on it lol. I have a few friends that keep buying bikes so there would be plenty to ride around. Definitely during biketoberfest--that should be good times.

[jayhawk785]

could be me--but the power seems better in the shafts? Seems like the response is quicker--? Was also less maintenance that's why i went the way of the shaft (insert gay joke here)<insert gay="" joke="" here=""></insert>

[Spirit_C2]

Got pics of the scootworks installed yet, I wanna see! Get some pics of the whole bike up here too

[jayhawk785]

probably tonight--i gotta install a new shoplight first so i can actually see at night in the garage. Day work in the garage is turning into a sweatfest. (florida..)

[jayhawk785]

750c2 scoot works with progressives--and drilled for a side mount:

http://notbusy.com/a/lowered/scoot1.JPG
http://notbusy.com/a/lowered/scoot2.JPG
http://notbusy.com/a/lowered/scoot3.JPG
http://notbusy.com/a/lowered/back.JPG

[jayhawk785]

http://notbusy.com/a/lowered/back2.JPG

This shows where i drilled the side mount hole. Will just add license plate
illumination, then I'll use SS Riders LED turn/brake kit

[Spirit_C2]

Hey Jayhawk, post up some more pics from the side, see how low it is. Also, have you tried 2-up with it yet, I have a 200 tire also just wondering if I could go 2-up with the 2.5 kit. Looks great though!

Like the tail light, thinking about going with the same one, only the smaller version, how does that one fit?

[jayhawk785]

http://notbusy.com/a/back/backnight.jpg
http://notbusy.com/a/back/back1.jpg

that's all i got on the lowered tip...

[westdime]

looks good.......aint nothing gay about that bike.

[jayhawk785]

looks good.......aint nothing gay about that bike.

lol, I'm gonna chop more of the rear fender off. I went easy on it the first go round... but next time...

[Spirit_C2]

Well you lost th emotorcycle mods light, what you going to do with it? I may be interested if your getting rid of it

[jayhawk785]

which light? the cateye + billski thing?

[Spirit_C2]

Ya isnt that what you had before?

this one

[jayhawk785]

ya, thats the billski mod, adapted to fit the c2--I think i have a guy here locally that wants it though--if not I'll let you know.

[Spirit_C2]

Sounds good, motorcycle mods makes two of them for our bike too

[Blackhouse]

So this is the 2.5 lowering kit from scootworks, correct? did you also lower the front in any way? I am thinking about getting this but I am not sure if i should get the front kit also. thanks

[Cuzzi1]

im thinking about getting the 2.5" scootworks kit with my cateye tail light. it looks like i'll have a 2" gap between the light and my tire. is that enough room? can i tighten the stock shocks to make it ok? 1.5" just doesn't seem low enough. i'm 175 lbs and barely ever have a passenger, i hope the 2.5" will work.

[Blackhouse]

I ended up going with the 2.5 kit and it is very low. I bottom out though, and I only weigh 130 or so. If you have passengers much or carry a heavy load, i would recommend the 1.5......

[Cuzzi1]

hmm... does anyone that has 412 shocks and a 1.5 kit bottom out? i want it really low, i dont mind a stiff ride. most of my friends have no rear suspension and it feels fine to me.

[750SpiritRdr]

I have the 2.5 lowering kit and 11.5" 412 progressives and i don't bottom out any.
I'm at 212lbs and all is good.
Now as far as bill's light or the cat eye it might be a prob. I'm runnin one of the LED run/brake strips. (SSRider)
The ones in my gallery are the stockers cut down not the progressives. I went pros. because i wanted to ride the tire and they look better.

[Cuzzi1]

can you post pics of the progressives and the lowering kit? i'm thinking right now im just gonna go with struts and then if i dont like the ride i'll eventually get the progressives.

[750SpiritRdr]

can you post pics of the progressives and the lowering kit? i'm thinking right now im just gonna go with struts and then if i dont like the ride i'll eventually get the progressives.
i will when i get home

[Black label Shadow]

Hey just wondering if these would work on a SS750? Thanks! :thumbsup:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Sportster-Lowering-kit-solid-struts-rigid-struts-SLAM_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1742Q2em153Q2el1262QQcategoryZ35557QQihZ003QQitemZ130260090805

[quam]

well you need to contact the seller and ask what the diameter of the mounting holes is. then measure your stock ones. if the strut's mounting holes are a little too big you can find a sleeve or something to take up the slack, but if they're too small, then the answer is no.
but i don't see why you'd want those struts seeing as they're 10". in order to really get a good lookin slam on the spirit, you should go down to 9". in fact the 2.5" lowering kit will give you about the same slam as those struts and you can keep the ass end sprung.....of course the kit's a little more expensive.

[Black label Shadow]

How rough is the ride with solids in place of shock? does it change riding and handling?

[twin750]

!

[twin750]

+1............?????

[YO MUDA]

Sluts, I mean stuts are cool. I got 9.5, rides pretty good , but I got gel upholstered in my seat.

[Cuzzi1]

i found the 412's for really cheap on craigslist, brand new in the box. put them on and the ride is so much smoother... has anyone ridden 2 up with the progressives and no lowering kit? i'm wondering if it can hold up, i have the preloads set to max right now for just myself.

[westdime]

Sluts, I mean stuts are cool. I got 9.5, rides pretty good , but I got gel upholstered in my seat.
I love my sluts I mean struts....

[HardleyRider02]

mmmmmmm sluts!!

edit: struts! :)

[SdShadowRider]

Have anyone use this company? http://www.meancycles.com/Home.asp?CompanyID=0&BikeType=Cruiser&BikeModelID=5484&AccCategoryID=2300

The prices are better than Scootworks.

[Beaker]

I bought a heatshield from them when I built my pipes. No complaints.

[chewychewytoo]

I have gotten several parts from them on and off over the years, and no complaints here either.

[girt]

So I got the scootworks for the c2 and started installing them, i didnt have a 27mm socket so i had to go get one and will complete tonight. The bracket on the shaft size is fairly huge lol--it connects to the spring mount point, and then down to the axle bolt, creates a right angle... doesn't look that great but i think i can cover it up a bit with a side mount license plate ;)

I'll post the pic on that side when its done, the arrow shows the bolt it attaches to:

http://notbusy.com/a/axle.JPG

Did you get the Scootworks 1.5 or 2.5 drop? And yes, this is my first post - I'm a Noob - FuckMeIsuckGetSomePics - I know! let the abuse begin!:knife:

[06shadow750]

Im sure it has been covered before, but cant seem to find it. Im about to install my 9.5" hard tail struts (made by me). How do i reposition my kick stand?? I remeber reading something about adding a few washers. just not sure where.

J.

Also i dont have a bike jack. what else can i use to get the back end in the air?

[firefighter212]

Do you have a couple ratchet straps?Tie or fasten them to the Braces(the ones that come out of the ceiling) of your garage door and fasten the other to the forks of your bike(making a "v" and tighten till it starts to raise the bike.Now you can use a floorjack or pick the bike up and set on some wood.Had to do this to my buddies bike cause my lift wouldn`t work on his vlx.Disclaimer-I am at no means responsible if you drop your bike.This is only an explanation of what i had done to get my buddies bike off the ground,Be very careful if your going to try this and have some help.The straps are only for supporting the bike and not lifting it.

[Biscuits]

I also used a tow strap to lift my bike when installing my struts. Of course the tow straps were attached to a warehouse crane to make it a hell of alot easier, but at any rate, the strap idea is your best bet if you dont have a jack.

[TI 3VOM]

Hmmm, I guess I did it the hard way by pulling the shocks... letting it settle down and lifting it by hand to get the strut in place. The second one was simple..... LOL

It really isn't that heavy but ackward to hold it and get the strut lined up and bolt in.....

[ol puddin head]

alright, can i use 9.5 struts, a billski with plate, and a vtx mod with 200?

[ol puddin head]

after doing some reading(i was a lazy ass. its within the first couple posts on this thread for christs sake) i realize what a dumbass question that was. my bad.

[omega9763]

You NOOBER!! Wassup brother??

[claxattack1]

meancycles.com is the shit!

[firefighter212]

All I can say is slam that sumbitch!!!!!!!!!!!!!!you wont regret it!!!!!!!!!!lol

[scottbaer]

Ya isnt that what you had before?

this one

are you using the stock rear shock bolt for you lic. mount?

[KAHUNUCT73]

im 54 and asian, i had my bike lowered, but raised it back up, handles a lot better turn in was improved at stock height. It will affect your suspension a lot. Lowered will feel more heavy turning in. Yes u do need lowering links, get some off of ebay, then u will need to slide the fork tubes up the triple clamp

[firefighter212]

I`m sure the fact your 54 and asian had something to do with it.WTF does that have to do with it?lol

[Beaker]

im 54 and asian, i had my bike lowered, but raised it back up, handles a lot better turn in was improved at stock height. It will affect your suspension a lot. Lowered will feel more heavy turning in. Yes u do need lowering links, get some off of ebay, then u will need to slide the fork tubes up the triple clamp

What the Hell are you talking about? This is about Honda Shadows, not Honda Civics! By the way, lots of white guys have lowered their Civics, and they can handle them just fine. Well, not really, but I don't want to bring race into this (plus, I think the spoiler and fart can muffler help).

[firefighter212]

When you say had,does that mean you took it to the local shop to have it done or you had it done then changed it yourself?

[shadrix]

I just put the progressive 11.5 on mine with the Cateye Tailight. i will be doing the 200 tire but i can see it will have plenty of room. there are two models for the Progressive... i bought the HD version... being i weigh 229lbs. i have them set to the softest setting currently... and man it is a smooth ride!

~Drep

HD = Heavy Duty :|


hey man from where did you get the progressive 11.5 HD version ??? i found it only for sportster, would that fit 750DC ?

[BamaShadow]

Well, I put on the Scootmods 9.5" struts, new bullet turn signals, and side mount w/skull cateye Saturday. I fucking love it! The ride is nowhere near as bad as I thought it would be. The look is bad-ass. I'll post some pics as soon as it quits frickin raining (I know. No pics, no mod).

[KAHUNUCT73]

I am thinking about dropping my 03 r6 two inches. But I dont want to loose handling or not be able to do wheelies. Lowering the bike would just be more comfortable for me. Can I get some feedback of what you guys think??? Thanks ahead of time.

[dirtwarrior]

The R6 sits high and would benifit by lowering. Wheelies huh

[Oceachhedeell]

I am thinking about dropping my 03 r6 two inches. But I dont want to loose handling or not be able to do wheelies. Lowering the bike would just be more comfortable for me. Can I get some feedback of what you guys think??? Thanks ahead of time.

[fishman35]

Have anyone use this company? http://www.meancycles.com/Home.asp?CompanyID=0&BikeType=Cruiser&BikeModelID=5484&AccCategoryID=2300

The prices are better than Scootworks.

I would like to know this also. It appears they are pretty much the same damn design. I guess the fork extentions will make it a bit more dramatic. I am planning the Billski tail light mod, so only 1.5" will work, so I have read.

[Oceachhedeell]

Take & post some pics. To me this sounds like buying a big headace/ liability. The trick is that usually stuff is missing in these box jobs & you wont know what w/o a complete bike to look at. Good luck.

[Doc_Shadow]

I have the scoot mods 2.5 lowering kit and stock shocks. Im thinking of mounting hard struts to the scoot lowering kit but not sure what eye-to-eye measurement to get, 10, 10.5 or whatever. Or would I benefit to just get struts and lose the lowering kit? Any feedback would be great, thanks.

[ShadowMonster]

I have the scoot mods 2.5 lowering kit and stock shocks. Im thinking of mounting hard struts to the scoot lowering kit but not sure what eye-to-eye measurement to get, 10, 10.5 or whatever. Or would I benefit to just get struts and lose the lowering kit? Any feedback would be great, thanks.

I guess you could bolt the struts to the lowering kit but your fender probably wouldn't fit any longer ...... usually struts are mounted to the top/bottom shock mount points period, nothing else needed.

[Doc_Shadow]

I guess you could bolt the struts to the lowering kit but your fender probably wouldn't fit any longer ...... usually struts are mounted to the top/bottom shock mount points period, nothing else needed.



Yeah, im just thinking of the lowest possible set-up. Ill modify the fender support if I need to.

[ShadowMonster]

Yeah, im just thinking of the lowest possible set-up. Ill modify the fender support if I need to.

Most struts are 9.5" hole center to hole center, it's what "most" are using, anything lower even if you can get the fender to work and you'll be close to draggin everything, even your balls if you lean at all!!

[burnthesnikle]

ok i have pics
no pics drive me nuts!!!! :furious2:
this stock...12"
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t232/burnthesnikle/shadowrider001.jpg

this is 11"
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t232/burnthesnikle/shadowrider002.jpg

this 10.5
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t232/burnthesnikle/shadowrider004.jpg

and this is the billski mod...about 1/2 of space left...
http://i161.photobucket.com/albums/t232/burnthesnikle/shadowrider005.jpg

take pictures you assholes!!! :grin:

[2003 Red spirit 750]

:wink3:
Ok I know your going to bust my balls, have at it. This should help someone looking to do this mod in the future. So now if you've done the vtx mod with the 200/70/15 tire and you have the Bilski under-the-fender cateye brake light with license plate. Now you want to lower your bike. You haven't modified the rear fender sub-frame and you still have the factory shocks at 12" center holes. Well at this point everything is fine, rides good, nothing touches, plenty of room between tire and bilski, even 2up. Well now you want to bring out the fatter look of that rear tire so you read through here and you find that a 1.5" lowering kit seems to make sense. Well now after installing the kit you find out it looks great, you fully preload the shocks, you sit your 200 lb. ass down on the seat and find out it rubs on the left side of the fender sub-frame. Plenty of clearence on the rightside. Hmm...what to do? Now the bike is off the jack, sitting on the kickstand your taking all kinds of measurements, cussing everyone in sight and this forum lol. Well your pleased to know there is 1 1/2" between the license plate and the tire, it looks awesome. The bad news is there is just a 1/4'' gap on the leftside fender sub-frame and the tire, you position a straight edge and eyeball it and yal it's gonna rub. As I see it your choices are...1. Modify the sub-frame, get the grinder out, still a chuck hole could cause your license plate to hit the tire even though your sub-frame now clears, remember it is only 1 1/2" away from that tire, oem shock travel could be up to 3". Option 2. Straight struts..hmm..what length? Get the measure tape out and measure from center top shock mount to center swingarm shock mount, Well it's 11.5" to maintain the above mentioned clearences with that 200 rear tire, not hacking up the sub-frame and keeping that cateye plate mount under the rear fender. This would be about the same clearence as a 1.5 lowering kit using oem shock and tire. The 200 rear tire is about 2" taller than the stock tire, hence the longer strut than the typical 9-10" strut used with side mount plate and modified sub-frame some guys use on here. There might be a third option using progressive shocks, don't know enough about this one to comment.
FYI: I've never seen this mentioned anywhere so I'll mention it. The stock 160 rear tire (3.5" rim) mounted is about 6.5" wide. The 200/70/15 tire (4.5" rim) mounted is about 7" wide and the 200 low profile Harley tire (5.5" rim) is about 7.5" wide. All mounted on the correct rim. Although you might say thats only a 1/2 difference, believe me to the eye it's a BIG 1/2". Someone care to offer up the width on a 240 or 250 tire & rim mounted? Yes that's my experience, I decided to go with the solid struts, safely ride 2up, keep the cateye/license plate, sub-frame intact, lower and fatter ass, bike that is, yal mine to. Good-bye 1.5 lowering kit. That's my experience.
Oh ya KMA. :moon: Critcs welcome I know your out there.

[SLC Shadow]

Alright, so I'm a noob. Anyway I want to make sure i get this right cause who wants to waste money. Whats the suggestion? I want to lower my bike and im trying to choose between getting the Billski struts or going with the Scoot mods lowering kit. Do i have to modify the back fender at all or the sub frame going with the struts? Instead of getting a lowering kit for the front forks could i just get fork extensions, i was thinkin about 2in. How well does this work to kind of even it out? Thanks guys, and be as hard on me about the noob factor as you want, i can take it. Just as long as i can get this answer straght so i can feel confident on what i spend my money on.

[TI 3VOM]

If you are just going with a lowering kit or equal struts, you do not need to mod the subframe. Although, tire size is also a consideration. ie: VTX mod and larger tire? Either will lower it, depending on taillight choice, you may not be able to have suspension travel at 2.5 inches down. Although, you never said if you were looking at the 1.5 or 2.5 lowering kit. With struts, you can go as low as you want and as close to the tire as possible since there is no travel.

As for the front, if you want it lowered too, fork extensions will do the exact opposite. They will lift the front of the bike. You can change the size of the spacers up front to bring it down, or I suppose you could put raked trees on without the extensions.

Rememebr though, these are fairly low bikes to begin with and if you lower it all the way around, watch your pegs on corners. You could find yourself draggin the frame rails....

[SLC Shadow]

I dont know if i want to go with 1.5 or 2.5 yet. I would guess probably the 2.5 with a side mounted tail light, but i also dont want to bottom out and hit the tire. How is the ride with the struts though? is it that much rougher with them? would i be fine just lowering the rear and worryin about the front later when i figure out what id like to do with it?

[SLC Shadow]

Thanks alot for helpin me out by the way

[Doc_Shadow]

I had a stock tire and 2.5 lowering kit and really like the way it looked. I now have a harley rear conversion with a 16X5.5 and a Metz 200/60/16. The 2.5 lowering kit and stock shocks will not work, even after hacking the subframe. Any suspension travel and my tire would be toast. I took off the 2.5 kit and stock shocks and ordered a set of 9.5 struts. I really dont think that will work either now that I got my shocks off. If I planned on riding solo there would be no problem but the most rear fender nuts on the subframe are damn close to the tire and I even ground them down to the welds.

[2003 Red spirit 750]

Here's some pictures with the VTX Mod, 200 rear tire, bilski taillight/license plate and 1.5 lowering kit prior to intstalling solid rear struts. My bad in a previous post I said the struts were 11 1/2 no they are 11 1/4 if you want to keep the bilski and not have the round fender sub-frame hit the 200 rear tire. I haven't got the new struts on yet but will update when I do. 11 1/4" struts put the bike at the same height as the 1.5" lowering kit. Don't ask me how just look at the measuring tape. You can go lower by hacking the fender sub-frame and going to a side mount license plate as many guys have. 9-10" struts are pretty common with some modification to that sub-frame. This is my 1st attempt at posting pictures so bare with me.
:cool3:

[TI 3VOM]

You should wack the back of the license plate bolts off. I know it something stupid, but little shit like that bugs me... Just like my stickers. ( I gotta get them off after I license it this year)

[2003 Red spirit 750]

Good idea, I should've thought of that myself!

[YAMASHITA]

Have been reading some of the post sure its in on one of these pages but..... has anyone takin coils off the rear shocks to lower.... if so how many for how many inches...Thanks

[dirtwarrior]

I havn't done mine but you can make a compresson to take the springs off.
To answer you question 1 inch off the springs = about 1.25 to 1.5 lower ride height

[dirtwarrior]

Have been reading some of the post sure its in on one of these pages but..... has anyone takin coils off the rear shocks to lower.... if so how many for how many inches...Thanks
Let me be the first to welcome you

FUCK OFF

[YAMASHITA]

Thanks for the Welcome just got an 03 spirit as of this week and just dig these bikes in the weeds thanks for the info......

[2003 Red spirit 750]

Well now it's taken awhile to post these pictures but here's some views with the struts on. Struts are 11 1/4" made by D-Z Customs.

[perk84]

wheres the cheapest place to get 9.5 inch lowering struts ?

[mavrick_69_us]

wheres the cheapest place to get 9.5 inch lowering struts ?




I would shop around, and when you find the lowest price, you will have your answer.

[joker750ss]

i made a compression tool with 2x4s and and small floor jack make a 2x4 box 6 inchs taller than shock or long enough to fit jack under shock inside wood frame cut circle in top 2x4 just enough to allow clip to come out the top put jack under shock and jack it up i took 2 rounds off mine that put mine the same height as when i had 10 inch struts but i still got a little cushion in back dont forget to flatten top of spring or it wont sit in top right i have it in attic i wiil post pic if i can find it

[chewychewytoo]

The cheapes 9.5 inch struts are already on your bike, built right into the stock shocks. Just remove the shocks and remove the springs and extra stuff from the outside of them, and voila, you have 9.5 inch struts. Some have used jbweld to try and stick them together, but they work fine without that, it is what I have on my 2003 ss750.

Cliff

[JayT]

The cheapes 9.5 inch struts are already on your bike, built right into the stock shocks. Just remove the shocks and remove the springs and extra stuff from the outside of them, and voila, you have 9.5 inch struts. Some have used jbweld to try and stick them together, but they work fine without that, it is what I have on my 2003 ss750.

Cliff

Cliff, Hows the ride compared to stock? also do you ride 2 up at all?

[chewychewytoo]

Well it's a hard tail, so it will smack you in the ass pretty hard if you hit a pot hole, but I keep my eye out for em, and I ride two up just fine. I usually have to put on the mustang seat though, because my wife wont ride with me if I don't :) That seat takes some of the edge off of the hard tail, my shaved stock seat, you feel every nuance of the road, and by that, I mean every bump :)

Cliff

[JayT]

Well it's a hard tail, so it will smack you in the ass pretty hard if you hit a pot hole, but I keep my eye out for em, and I ride two up just fine. I usually have to put on the mustang seat though, because my wife wont ride with me if I don't :) That seat takes some of the edge off of the hard tail, my shaved stock seat, you feel every nuance of the road, and by that, I mean every bump :)

Cliff

Gotcha, thanks!
Im rear disc and shaft drive.
I wanna keep some suspension but go low and they dont make bracket kits for mine, I have a feeling the only option to go low and keep some spring, is to get lower shocks. Like progressive 10.5's

[JonnyC]

Alright guys, I know this shit has been asked a million times, but I need help deciding on what Progressive 412's to get. I will rarely ride 2 up, and I have a LED strip for a tail light so I have plenty of room. Should I go with the 11" or 11.5"? I weigh ~180, if I go with the 11.5" should I go with the HD version?

I plan on going on some long trips (well, 2.5 hours is long for me), and I'll have the Slitherin seat - do you think the 11" would be too harsh?

I plan on replacing the front springs with Progressives as well, but I think I'll stick with stock height in the front. I would like to lower it as well, but I would think I would have almost no turning clearance then.

Any info would be appreciated.

[jjones]

Why don't you just make your own struts. jack the bike up, take off the shocks, lower it to the height you want, measure it and cut the struts out of some flat stock. That is what I had done for mine vt1100. I have 9.5 inch struts on it.

[sk8er408]

Why don't you just make your own struts. jack the bike up, take off the shocks, lower it to the height you want, measure it and cut the struts out of some flat stock. That is what I had done for mine vt1100. I have 9.5 inch struts on it.

Is that so jjones? What is that all about... do you have a ststuttering issue?

[VoodooMaster]

hehehehehehehehehehehehehe:lol:

[VoodooMaster]

Why don't you just make your own struts. jack the bike up, take off the shocks, lower it to the height you want, measure it and cut the struts out of some flat stock. That is what I had done for mine vt1100. I have 9.5 inch struts on it.


Who gives a shit noob?

now go fuckoff n00b.

PICS OF YOUR BIKE OR STFU.

[lifeofchaos13]

So after reading this and the VTX Rim Mod im looking at, due to the fact that I ride 2up alot and have a scootmods sidemount taillight kit:

Scootmods 2.5 lowering kit
Progressive 11.5 shocks
VTX 4.5 inch wide rim with the Metzeler 200/70/15
Grind off everything past the seat support, under the fender

And I should be good to go for clearance, safety, and ridability? Sound right?

[jfreeman02]

Does the hardtail kit make the bike any longer?

[SteveB]

After reading all these threads I think I am going to go with the 11" progressive shocks. I weigh about 175, have no plans to ride 2 up at this time and I have the Billski cateye light. Going to stay with stock tire....just looking to lower it without affecting the billski light. Unless someone thinks I should go with the 11.5".

[shadow247]

After reading all these threads I think I am going to go with the 11" progressive shocks. I weigh about 175, have no plans to ride 2 up at this time and I have the Billski cateye light. Going to stay with stock tire....just looking to lower it without affecting the billski light. Unless someone thinks I should go with the 11.5".

You would be best off going with the 11.5. Of course it all depends on the roads you ride. Around here the highway has a lot of bumps, and my buddy has ripped his Billski off once just hitting a bump at 60mph with his 11" progressives. You can get away with it if you ride on the hardest setting, but you are losing the whole reason for getting the progressive shocks in the first place.

[SteveB]

You would be best off going with the 11.5. Of course it all depends on the roads you ride. Around here the highway has a lot of bumps, and my buddy has ripped his Billski off once just hitting a bump at 60mph with his 11" progressives. You can get away with it if you ride on the hardest setting, but you are losing the whole reason for getting the progressive shocks in the first place.

Thanks Shadow247.....that was the help I was looking for. Makes sense, especially with the roads here in PA. This old man also needs some cushion.

[southern iron]

To lower the front

Jack the bike to take the weight off of the front suspension.
Remove the fork caps on the triple tree. (Careful there's a BIG spring in there)
Pull out the metal spacer in the fork.
Get yourself some 1" PVC pipe and cut it 1 1/2" shorter than the metal spacers.
Clean off all the shavings.
Insert the PVC in place of the metal spacers.
Reinstall the fork caps (Carefull it's easy to cross thread them)
That's it. You're done with the front.

If you want lower cut the PVC shorter, higher remove less than the 1 1/2"


why take out a metal spacer and put in "PVC" why not a shorter metal spacer? i always hear pvc, is there a reason for it?

[TI 3VOM]

why take out a metal spacer and put in "PVC" why not a shorter metal spacer? i always hear pvc, is there a reason for it?


Cheap, easy and readily available. I believe the lowering kits come with PVC so I think it took off from there.

[firefighter212]

I seen on another site that guys were doing the exact opposite.Putting longer pipe in to raise the front for the longer frontend look.Seems to me it would stiffen the front end up as well.

[JayT]

I seen on another site that guys were doing the exact opposite.Putting longer pipe in to raise the front for the longer frontend look.Seems to me it would stiffen the front end up as well.

Kinda like buying the extensions...
IMO if u get raked trees, the def add a few inches to the tubes.

[coba]

Ok! Can anyone tell me wat is the best way too lower my Bike? is it a kit or shocks? or Struts?

[VoodooMaster]

Ok! Can anyone tell me wat is the best way too lower my Bike? is it a kit or shocks? or Struts?


...you are a fucking idiot...

Read this thread dipshit.

FUCKOFFBRAINDEADNOOB.

Just forget to put the kick stand down,n00b. It will get lower then.

[woodytick]

...you are a fucking idiot...

Read this thread dipshit.

FUCKOFFBRAINDEADNOOB.

Just forget to put the kick stand down,n00b. It will get lower then.


:lol::lol::lol: all i can say is WOW!!!!

[ahjort]

14477





14478








I let the air out of my tires and lowered mine by 2.675"!

[woodytick]

i heard if you dig a hole you can lower it 6 feet....

[coba]

Ya! I guess u are a retarded!

[firefighter212]

Ya! I guess u are a retarded!when the fuck are these Noobs going to learn?Hey Noob,go look at the 240 Tread and learn something.

[coba]

wat is a 240 tread! Im just asking ?.... Dumb Ass............

[firefighter212]

wat is a 240 tread! Im just asking ?.... Dumb Ass............Post some pics,show what you done before you become a smart ass or a dumb ass.

[spike11]

coba,just take the abuse for a short while and dont flame out and you'll be fine,oh and by the way,FUCKOFFNOOBWHOHASAHOTTEMPERANDAPOTTYMOUTH!!!
AND WELCOME TO THE FORUM

[coba]

ok! I am trying to upload pic's right now!

[woodytick]

Ya! I guess u are a retarded!



who the fuck you calling a retard you stupid ass fucking NOOB moron. use the fucking search buttom and you might find the answer. you're like all the other fucking idiots that come on here and ask the same fucking question over and over again without doing a little research on your own. i mean jesus h. christ, the fucking button is right there, use it and you will probably find the answer on your own. until then

FUCKRIGHTTHEHELLOFFNOOBMORON.....

[coba]

Ya! I do research on my own! but that is what people do is ask a question about what works good on there bike or bad from other people! NOT A FUCKING RETARD LIKE YOU....DUMB ASS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Rotorhead818]

Hey Noobert... Use the fucking search button

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ld3imEfpZU

Seriously though,
I lowered mine with the LA Choppers kit 1.5 inches. I got the 1.5 because if i wanted to go lower i could just re drill a hole further back and make it 2.5. !.5 is plenty for me though.

Some say slam the bitch and use struts, i prefer some sore of suspension just for comfort. It does look better though.

I think progressives are the best of both worlds. Better looking and still has good suspension. They do however, cost some dough which i just didnt have at the time.

Those are your options, now go forth and SEARCH to expand your lowering knowledge!

Welcome to the forum.

[coba]

Ok! Thxs Thats all I needed too know, I thought about the Shocks but they were $300, and Im like you need those springs, They have some lowing kits, But i was'nt sure which one was the best!:jamming:

[ahjort]

Hey joker, look at the option of swapping out you existing shocks for shocks from a Honda Rebel. They are 1.5" shorter and should work by swapping out the rubber bushings with you original shocks! I did this on my 1100 ACE and it worked like a charm! The rebel shocks are adjustable load (5 settings). I cranked them to the stiffest setting because my bike is heavier than the Rebel. I got the shocks on E-GAY for around $35 (used).

[JayT]

Hey joker, look at the option of swapping out you existing shocks for shocks from a Honda Rebel. They are 1.5" shorter and should work by swapping out the rubber bushings with you original shocks! I did this on my 1100 ACE and it worked like a charm! The rebel shocks are adjustable load (5 settings). I cranked them to the stiffest setting because my bike is heavier than the Rebel. I got the shocks on E-GAY for around $35 (used).

Good idea.... How was the ride??

[spike11]

Hey joker, look at the option of swapping out you existing shocks for shocks from a Honda Rebel. They are 1.5" shorter and should work by swapping out the rubber bushings with you original shocks! I did this on my 1100 ACE and it worked like a charm! The rebel shocks are adjustable load (5 settings). I cranked them to the stiffest setting because my bike is heavier than the Rebel. I got the shocks on E-GAY for around $35 (used).



interesting.:beatnik2:

[ahjort]

I've only put on about 30 miles since I swapped them (winter came early)! But they seem to be supporting the weight just fine. It hasn't bottomed out yet! I like the open spring look better than the enclosed look of the originals!


Before:


14509





after:


14510

[coba]

Sweet Deal! I think That's a Great Idea...Thanks Man I am going to ck into that...

[usarsoldr81]

Here is a pic of what I did to My Aero. I had a buddy cut some stock to hard tail it and lowered it 1.5" in the back. Kept the front stock again because of the trailing issues you may have. I also prefer to have just the rear lowered. Cutting and trimming the fender next.https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=a5b5f229de&view=att&th=12e25403c76f0e88&attid=0.2&disp=thd&zw (https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=a5b5f229de&view=att&th=12e25403c76f0e88&attid=0.2&disp=inline&zw)

[Lebowski]

Here is a pic of what I did to My Aero. I had a buddy cut some stock to hard tail it and lowered it 1.5" in the back. Kept the front stock again because of the trailing issues you may have. I also prefer to have just the rear lowered. Cutting and trimming the fender next.https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=a5b5f229de&view=att&th=12e25403c76f0e88&attid=0.2&disp=thd&zw (https://mail.google.com/mail/?ui=2&ik=a5b5f229de&view=att&th=12e25403c76f0e88&attid=0.2&disp=inline&zw)


How thick was the flat bar that you used, and did it look good when you were done?

[usarsoldr81]

How thick was the flat bar that you used, and did it look good when you were done?


Not done with it yet still doing other mods. Used .5 in steel stock and milled the holes to mount in the original shock mounts. Very cheap and cost effective.

[CesV]

Chain adjust...does this have to be done after installing a 1.5" lowering kit (LA Choppers)?