Couple of questions in one post Harley Evo Sportster Discuss Couple of questions in one post in the Harley Sportster & Buell forums; I have an 06 883R and there are a couple of things I would like to do this year that are mechanicaly easy but wondering if I should do them. ...

[mikexl883r]

I have an 06 883R and there are a couple of things I would like to do this year that are mechanicaly easy but wondering if I should do them.

1. I was looking at changing the bars to the mini apes. Has anyone done this and I would love to know how it looks. I know that they would be in a better position than stock so that is not an issue.
2. I wanted to lower the rear by 1". Now harley has two types of shocks for this in the Parts Catalog. The standard low shocks and also the two up low shocks. Now I wiegh in at 240lbs. Can I use the lows or would I be better with the Two up shocks. I don't want to bottom out. I ride with my 130lbs wife occasionally and I do ride with bags. I don't bottom out the shocks by myself but I don't know about having one inch shorter and maybe the wife with me.
Thanks for looking and any good answers are appreciated.
Mike

[frisco-rigid]

Hi Mike

Bars-----
Mini apes should look and feel great.. Be prepared to get longer cables and wires..


Shocks------

Many years ago a few of us were jammin 101 to the Redwood Run..
One of our boys was 100 yds. ahead.. He was a big man and his woman was 150ish..
Suddenly we all saw his sickle start to smoke,, clouds baby,, he had no idea..

We caught him and found the prob..
They had been bottoming out on the rear tire until it wore Right Dead thru the rear fender pretty as you please-- a big long oblong hole..
And VERY hot.. The bottom of her seat was scorched..
It woulda burned em down.. She had to finish the ride on another sickle..

Sooo, which shock do you think you need..??

[sgtcowboyusmc]

Mike agreed what Frisco says. I replaced my HD shocks with progressives and do not regret it one bit. Only wish I had done it 50,000 miles earlier when it was new! I have the FXD Super Glide and I put the 10 inch mini-apes (Off a Wide Glide) and now I wish I had gone with the 12.5" mini apes. Just something to look at.

Good luck
Bill

[Majicbringer]

Get Progressives, you won't be disappointed.

[Hammerhead Pat]

I believe Progessive recommends the same shock in either of two specs, under 250lbs. or the shock for over 250lbs.

[Likemlouder]

here is a pic of my bike when it had 12 inch mini apes and the wide mustang vintage. i also went with ultima air shocks rode really well.

[street bob]

likemlouder....that is one sweet sporty.......

[mikexl883r]

That is the front end look that I am going for. Also the comfort factor.