[omgtkk]

I Just bit the bullet and bought a 1986 FXRD that I'll be picking up tomorrow. I've been researching everything I can on this bike as I have never owned an FXR that was this old. One question I have is about shocks. I have a set of Fox Racing shocks that came off my '99 FXR2. When I look at all the application guides they spec FXR shocks for 82-86 and then 88-on. What's the difference?? I assume a change in the swing arm mounting points or the bushing size. I sure would like to use the Fox shocks on the FXRD if possible.

Thanks in advance and get ready for several more questions once I get the bike home.

 

[plumpbiker]

Your question got my curiosity up, so I went to J&P Cycles site and looked up shocks for both bikes. According to J&P, both bikes take the same shocks. So it would appear that you could use the shocks from the 99 on your 86.

 

[FXRS Carrera]

Be careful with Ebay because all that is advertised as FXR is not. I got burned on set of shocks for 86 sporty. GREAT condition shocks but dont fit my FXRS 1990. Ask for parts number before buying it. Beware of Ebay!

 

[monkeyboy]

I just looked at the Progressive site. '86 to '99 are the same. They don't even have a listing for '99 or '00 FXR, only FXD. Can't tell you what the diff. in suspension is between '94 and '99. Might be the upper mount. I'd have to look at the fender struts to see if that's where the change is, if there is a change. Sorry I couldn't help more.

 

[V-STRUM]

The Fox shocks should fit, they'll just probably be shorter than the FXRD shocks. In '87 the FXR's top mounting points were moved forward, but this doesn't affect shock interchangeability, all mounting is the same. Most FXR shocks are 12.5" with Convertibles, FXRS-SP, and I think FXRT/FXRD's being 13.5".

 

[tussuck]

Many shocks fit... I'm running a set of 2002 Harley ones on my 86 FXR.

You may have to tweak something somewhere, but generally you should be okay.

Sent from my FXR powered iPad

 

[omgtkk]

V-Strum, That seems to be the magic answer. As I researched further it seems the bushing sizes are the same but the recommended lengths differ from 86-87. The upper mounting point change would explain that.
Thanks for everyone's help

 

[rigrey1]

i've got Progressives 412's on mine.....on the FXR-P they normally took a 13" shock...in the upright/rear position. I bought some 11" shocks......and moved them to the forward position. Stiffened up and lowered the ride by doing so.

If you look at this pic without the strut covers.....I think there's only 2 postitions for the shock...in front of and behind the turn signal......

so other than a change in length or postition.......most shocks should work, as V-Strum said...


rigo

 

[LowRiderCustom]

I had the FXR2 shocks on my bike when I got it and replaced them with Progressive shocks and they are so much better.

 

[Homesick]

The Fox shocks should fit, they'll just probably be shorter than the FXRD shocks. In '87 the FXR's top mounting points were moved forward, but this doesn't affect shock interchangeability, all mounting is the same. Most FXR shocks are 12.5" with Convertibles, FXRS-SP, and I think FXRT/FXRD's being 13.5".

This info is the way I understand things too.

joe

 

[Michael Psycle]

I Just bit the bullet and bought a 1986 FXRD that I'll be picking up tomorrow.

Way to go! Welcome to the cult. As you see, there is a lot of fxr knowledge around here. Please post pics in the "Lets see everyone's fxr" topic when you get it.