While I'm off the road anyhow

[joeldavid_m]

Anybody flip their swingarm on their FX? It looks like the geometry should stay the same and it will lower the bike by an inch. I'm trying too do some cosmetic stuff while the engine is apart.

[joeldavid_m]

I gave it some thought over night and remebered the change guard mount would have to move and I don't know if the shock mounts stick out enough for the shocks not to bang on the swingarm. Probably should just get some 11" shocks.

[newultraclassic]

Originally Posted by joeldavid_m

Anybody flip their swingarm on their FX? It looks like the geometry should stay the same and it will lower the bike by an inch. I'm trying too do some cosmetic stuff while the engine is apart.

It won't work on an FXS. The shocks already are too close to the swingarm where they are bolted in on the bottom. You could get shorter shocks I guess.

As mentioned above, there is also the chain guard mount to deal with, not to mention the all-important anchor tab for the brake caliper retaining strap.

Frankly, the rake and trail on the FXS is perfect for handling as is. Any change would only damage the handling. If given a choice between handling and looks, I'll take handling. Yes, I've ridden an FXS that was lowered only in the rear and it's not the same. It didn't feel right to me.

[cripula]

I have Progressive 11" shocks on my '81 Sturgis. Just so you know, they do change the handling (and not for the better) and you will scrape parts much quicker. I ran them for years, accepted the trade off for the look I wanted. When I put the stockers on for a trip a few years ago I was very surprised at just how much better the bike handled.

[joeldavid_m]

Yeah, I didn't think about the need to change the front too in order to keep the geometry corect.

[MilesToGo]

Running 11 in shocks on my FXS as well. I think it handles just fine and it looks much better with the lower rear. It will scrub easier than at the stock height. I just slow down and enjoy the ride...it's not a sport bike.