Rear springs

I have the inclosed shocks on my 82 maxim. I havent taken them apart yet. I was wondering before I did if anyone knows if they are a spring inclosed? My plan is to lower my bike 2-3 inches. I figured Id trim the springs.

 

don't know the specifics on your suspension but in general, don't trim the springs, figure out a lowering link.

making the springs shorter w/o making them stiffer is a recipe for bottoming out

 

First off, you need to see if you HAVE 2-3 inches to play with; then the best plan would be to get a set of appropriately shorter new shocks and springs.

 

x2. He only speaks the truth, and im guessing that most of the time from expieriece. :lol:

 

thanks guys. Yeah i have the room to play with. I thought about getting some sportster springs, but i have really no money for this build so everything is modifying what I already have on the bike or around the garage. Now im just woundering wouldn't a spring be just as stiff even if it was 2 inches shorter. Just being shorter your more likely to bottom out right?

 

I read somewhere on here to use 87 - 89 Virago shocks to lower, I think it was about 1-2" I need to do that so both heels will be flat on the ground at a stop.

 

After a long time searching for some shorter springs I FINALLY found a new set off a Sportster (new) for $75.00. Not only did they work perfectly (after a bit of tinkering with the rubbers) but the beefy chrome looks quite nice.

I know I got a scream of a deal but they would be well worth it if you have to pay more....

Before:



After:

 

yeah they look alot better, but Keep them waxed. NO JOKE! i've had a few sportsters and if u dont keep them waxed they will rust and look like shit quickly!

 

How did you do your seat like that? Did you just cut it and tuck the leather under? It looks nice as hell man.

 

Does it matter what year sportster shock to use?